Where the Worm Went
After moving a worm from a hot path, Dani wonders where it chooses to go next.
Read together at your own pace. Pausing, rereading, or stopping is always okay.
After rain, Dani saw an earthworm wriggling on a path that was growing warm. With an adult, she used a broad leaf to move it only a short distance into damp soil beside the path.
Dani wanted to dig and follow it. Dad suggested watching the surface instead. The worm slipped beneath leaf litter, and the soil closed over it with barely a mark.
They read that earthworms need moisture and can be harmed by drying out or rough handling. Dani noticed tiny soil crumbs near old worm openings but could not tell which worm made them.
Helping did not give Dani ownership of the worm’s journey. She had changed one dangerous moment, then let the animal choose the rest.
Story workshop
Notice, talk, and play
Words to notice
- damp
- slightly wet
- leaf litter
- fallen leaves and plant pieces on soil
- ownership
- the state of possessing something
Talk about the story
- Why was the warm path risky?
- Why did Dani avoid digging after the worm?
- What was known and unknown afterward?
Try it together
Create a “look, help safely, leave” poster showing how to observe small outdoor animals with an adult.
Activities are designed for shared use. An adult should choose materials and supervision appropriate to the child.
Keep reading
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