Worm charming

This lively outdoor activity invites learners to “charm” worms to the surface by creating vibrations in the ground—no digging allowed! Working in teams, pupils test their worm-charming skills within marked plots, count their findings, and compare results to explore ideas of fair testing and observation. A fun, nature-based way to build curiosity, teamwork, and early science skills while connecting with the outdoors.

© Learning Through Landscapes. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Activities (15+ min)
EYFS
Understanding the World
Science

Preparation

What you need
  • The Worm Charming resource
  • An area of grassland like a playing field
  • Ropes, string or bamboo canes to mark out your plots
  • Containers of moist soil for each Worm Charming team
Location

Outdoors

Useful guidance

Resources

LtL Worm Charming Activity Guidance.pdf 356.24 KB

Step by step

  1. Download the Worm Charming resource.
  2. Read the guidance for step by step instructions for this activity. 

Curriculum links

This activity can be used to support curriculum knowledge and skill development in Science and Understanding the World, alongside enhancing nature education, with age appropriate adaptations.