3 Easy Show and Tell Clues for a Monkey

M-day is finally here! If your little one’s backpack is stuffed with a fuzzy, long-tailed friend this morning, you’ve picked a winner. Let’s be honest: when it comes to the preschool circuit, few things get a classroom more excited than a monkey.

Choosing a Monkey for Show and Tell is a classic move for a reason. Whether it’s a well-loved stuffed animal, a plastic figurine, or a favorite picture book, monkeys represent everything kids love—playfulness, energy, and just a little bit of mischief.

What Exactly is a Monkey?

To a five-year-old, a monkey is a "silly climber," but you can help them expand that definition. Monkeys are clever, social animals that live in forests and jungles all over the world. They are known for being excellent problem-solvers (just like your kiddo!) and for their incredible ability to swing through the trees using their strong arms and, sometimes, their tails.

Bringing a monkey to school isn’t just about showing off a toy; it’s about sharing a character that represents curiosity and fun.

Why a Monkey is Marvelous for Letter M

When the "Show and Tell Letter M" assignment comes home in the folder, the monkey is the undisputed king of the jungle.

The word "Monkey" starts with that wonderful, vibrating "Mmm" sound that is so easy for early learners to identify. It’s a "mouth-closer" letter, making it a great phonics lesson.

Pro-Tip for Parents: If your child wants to bring a monkey but the assignment is for a different letter, get creative! For "Letter B," he’s a Brown monkey. For "Letter S," he’s a Soft friend. But for Show and Tell Letter M, he is simply perfect exactly as he is.

The "Show" Part: Sensory Details

To help your child give a great presentation, encourage them to describe their monkey using more than just their eyes. Have them think about:

• Touch: Is the monkey’s fur soft or shaggy? Does he have "sticky" Velcro hands that help him hang from things?
• Sight: Point out the long, curly tail and the big, round ears. What color is his tummy?
• Sound: If it’s a toy that makes noise, that’s an instant hit. If not, your child can provide the "Ooh-ooh-ahh-ahh!" sounds themselves!
• Weight: Is he light enough to swing by one finger, or is he a heavy, floppy "weighted" plush?

Presentation & Acting Tips

A great Show and Tell isn't just standing still—it’s a performance! Here is how to help your child "wow" the carpet circle:

1. The Big Reveal: Tell your child to keep the monkey hidden in a bag at first. Use the "Helper Clues" provided below to let their friends guess what it is.
2. The Swing: Instead of just holding the monkey, have your child make the monkey "swing" through the air or "climb" up their own arm.
3. The Banana Trick: If you have a toy banana, bring that along as a prop! The monkey can "eat" his snack while your child talks.

Questions to Practice at Home:

Before the big day, ask your child these three questions so they feel confident when their classmates start raising their hands:

• "What is your monkey’s name?"
• "Where does he sleep at night?"
• "What is his favorite thing to do?"

3 Fun Monkey Facts for Kids

Want to help your child sound like a total expert? Have them share one of these "did you know" facts with the class:

1. Tail Power: Some monkeys have "prehensile" tails, which means they can use their tail like a third hand to grab branches and hold onto food!
2. Social Butterflies: Monkeys live in big families called "troops." They love to spend time together and even "groom" each other to show they are friends.
3. Smarty-Pants: Monkeys are very smart. Some have been known to use rocks as tools to crack open nuts—just like we use a nutcracker!

The Show and Tell Helper Clue: If your child wants to play a guessing game, have them say: "I live in the jungle, I have a very long tail, and my favorite snack is a yellow banana. Who am I?"

With a monkey in hand and a few fun facts in their head, your child is ready to swing into a successful Show and Tell!