Hens Don't Crow
What’s inside...
Hens Don't Crow is a delightful children's book written by A. H. Benjamin. The story follows a young rooster named Rooster who is determined to prove that hens can crow just like he can. Through his adventures, Rooster learns valuable lessons about acceptance, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself. With charming illustrations and a heartwarming message, Hens Don't Crow is a must-read for young readers. The farm animals are skeptical when a chicken promises to fulfill the wake-up duties of a sick rooster.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
22 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the author chose hens as a main character? What unique qualities do hens have?
What do you think the title 'Hens Don't Crow' tells us about the story? What might it mean?
How did the characters in the book react when they faced challenges? What can we learn from them?
Can you think of a time when you did something unexpected like the hens? How did others react?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why did it stand out to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, making the discussion more personal and memorable.
Ask open-ended questions that foster critical thinking and allow children to express their thoughts and ideas fully.
Validate their feelings and thoughts as they respond, reassuring them that their perspectives are valued.
Use pauses after asking questions to give your child adequate time to think and respond, showing that you are genuinely interested in their answers.
Discuss the characters' emotions and actions, which can help children understand and empathize with different situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of communication
Explanation: In the book, the hens and the rooster learn to communicate better which helps them solve a misunderstanding about who gets to wake up the farm.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to understand how expressing their thoughts and feelings clearly can help prevent misunderstandings with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Value of cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, the hens and the rooster find that by working together, they can efficiently manage the farm’s morning routine.
Real-World Application: This story can teach children the importance of teamwork in completing tasks more efficiently and successfully at school or during play.
Example Lesson: Respect for individual differences
Explanation: The story highlights how each character has unique qualities and strengths, which contributes to the farm in different ways.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and value the different abilities and qualities each person can bring to a group setting, promoting inclusivity and respect.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: When confronted with the issue of waking up the farm, the characters collaborate and brainstorm various solutions until they find one that works for everyone.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to think creatively and persistently about solutions when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding roles and responsibilities
Explanation: Each character learns their specific role on the farm, helping them understand the importance of duties and responsibilities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to their lives by understanding their roles in their families, schools, and communities, fostering a sense of responsibility and belonging.