Walter’s Wonderful Web Activity - Pre-K Halloween STEM Shapes Challenge

Pre-K Halloween STEM Shapes Challenge

Bring math, fine motor skills, and creativity together in this playful Halloween STEM challenge! Inspired by the beloved story Walter’s Wonderful Web by Tim Hopgood, this hands-on activity invites young learners to become little engineers as they help Walter the spider build strong and beautiful webs.

What’s Included:

• Spider Web Shape Cards (circle, square, triangle, trapezoid, star, and more)
• Student Challenge Sheets for reflection and drawing
• Teacher Instructions & Tips for guiding the activity
• Extension Ideas to connect shape recognition with counting and creative design
  

The Challenge

Students roll play dough “spaghetti” and use it to trace the lines of spider web cards, forming shapes like triangles, rectangles, and hearts. As they build, they practice perseverance—just like Walter, who never gave up on creating his wonderful web.

Learning Connections

• Math Skills: Shape identification, sides, and corners
• Fine Motor Development: Rolling, pressing, and shaping play dough
• STEM Habits of Mind: Persistence, problem-solving, and creativity
• Storytelling Link: Perfect extension to Walter’s Wonderful Web or as a stand-alone activity
  

Perfect For:

• Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms
• Makerspaces and STEM centers
• Fall or Halloween-themed learning days
• Small groups, centers, or whole-class activities
  

Help your students spin their very own “wonderful webs” while learning shapes, strengthening motor skills, and having fun with STEM!