The Little Red Hen
A hen asks for help with a loaf of bread, but her friends keep saying no.
A story to read together
The Little Red Hen
Take your time. Let the story unfold.
The Little Red Hen found a few grains of wheat near the barn. She thought they could become bread, but the work would take many steps. She asked the dog, the cat and the duck if they would help.
Planting the wheat
“Who will help me plant these grains?” asked the hen. The dog, cat and duck each said they were busy. So the hen planted them herself and watered the soil.
From grain to flour
The hen gathered the wheat and took it to the mill. She carried the flour home and began preparing the dough. Her friends noticed the warm, sweet smell but had not helped yet.
A loaf for sharing
When the bread was ready, the hen asked who would help eat it. The friends all volunteered. The hen explained that she had done every step alone.
Helping next time
The next day, the friends apologized and asked how they could help. The hen showed them how to prepare a new patch of soil.
The end
After the final page
There is no single right answer. Invite young readers to notice, wonder and imagine.
Who helps the hen at each stage?
What could the other animals have done differently?
At which steps could the other animals have helped the hen?
Make something: Draw the steps from grain to bread. Put a helpful character beside each step.
