Fun and Learning with Lois Ehlert Stories

Are you looking for vibrant, visually engaging stories that spark creativity while supporting early learning? Books by Lois Ehlert are a fantastic choice for young learners.

From Chicka Chicka Boom Boom to Leaf Man and Planting a Rainbow, her books combine bold collage-style illustrations with simple, rhythmic text that captures children’s attention and invites exploration.

Whether you’re teaching in an ESL classroom, homeschooling, or working in a primary school, these stories are playful, colorful, and perfect for hands-on learning.

About the Author

Lois Ehlert was a celebrated author and illustrator known for her distinctive collage technique using cut paper, fabric, and natural materials.

Her books often focus on nature, seasons, colors, and the world around us, making them ideal for introducing young children to both language and early science concepts.

Why Use Lois Ehlert Stories?

Supports Visual Learning
Bright, bold illustrations help children connect words with images easily.

Great for ESL Learners
Simple, repetitive text and strong visual cues support comprehension and participation.

Builds Vocabulary Naturally
Her books introduce everyday words related to nature, colors, food, and seasons.

Encourages Creativity
Her collage style inspires children to create their own art.

Cross-Curricular Learning
Perfect for integrating language with science topics like plants, weather, and seasons.

Fun Activities for Any Lois Ehlert Story

Prediction Practice
Before and during reading, ask students to:

• Look at the illustrations
• Guess what the story is about
• Predict what might happen next

This builds engagement and comprehension.

Sequencing Practice
After reading, ask students to:

• Order events (first, next, then, last)
• Retell the story using simple sentences
• Match pictures to parts of the story

This supports language development.

Create Your Own Collage
Inspired by her style:

• Use colored paper, magazines, or natural materials
• Create animals, plants, or scenes
• Present and describe their artwork

This encourages creativity and expression.

Nature Walk and Connect
Take learning outside:

• Collect leaves, flowers, or small objects
• Connect them to the story
• Describe colors, shapes, and textures

Great for vocabulary and observation.

Vocabulary Practice
Choose key words from the story:

• Match words to pictures
• Sort by categories (colors, plants, animals)
• Use in simple sentences

Keep it visual and interactive.

Color and Pattern Exploration
Focus on:

• Identifying colors
• Creating patterns
• Describing combinations

Perfect for early learners.

Act It Out
Even simple stories can be dramatized:

• Use movements (growing plants, falling leaves)
• Assign simple roles
• Retell the story physically

This builds confidence and understanding.

Create a Warm Storytime Environment

• Use colorful visuals and displays
• Add real objects (leaves, fruits, flowers)
• Create a cozy reading space

A stimulating environment enhances engagement.

Books by Lois Ehlert are more than just visually striking—they are powerful tools for building vocabulary, creativity, and curiosity about the natural world. Through bold illustrations and simple text, children learn to observe, describe, and connect ideas.

Whether you focus on language, art, or science, her stories adapt beautifully to any learning setting.

So choose a story, gather your students, and enjoy a colorful and creative reading experience.