I Am Not a Chicken: Animals on the Farm
#3 in Playful Pals on the Farm Series
What’s inside...
Explore the vibrant world of farm life in 'I Am Not a Chicken: Animals on the Farm' by Mari Bolte. This delightful book introduces young readers to farm animals through engaging and humorous misunderstandings. A captivating adventure perfect for fostering early learning and curiosity about the animal kingdom. Encourage your child's literacy skills and animal recognition all while enjoying the warmth and charm of farm animals' escapades! There are millions of farms around the world, and lots of farms around the world include me! If a predator gets too close, I make a lot of noise. However, I am not a donkey. I sleep standing up, but I am not a horse. What farm animal am I? Use the clues and guess!
Discussion points
What do you think makes each animal unique on the farm?
How do you think the chicken felt when it was mistaken for other animals?
Why is it important for each animal to be recognized for what they truly are?
Can you think of a time when you were misunderstood like the chicken?
What would you do if you were in the place of the chicken in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each character in the story.
Ask your child to draw their favorite farm animal and explain why they chose that particular one.
Discuss the importance of identity and self-awareness as highlighted in the book through the chicken’s experience.
Use expressive reading techniques to embody different animals' voices, making the reading experience more immersive and fun.
After reading, engage your child in a role-play activity where they can pretend to be their favorite animal from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding empathy
Explanation: The story illustrates various farm animals expressing their feelings and concerns, teaching children to recognize and respect feelings not just in themselves but in others too.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children empathize with their peers in school or while playing, leading them to develop into compassionate individuals.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: Through the story's narrative, when animals share their true feelings, it highlights how being honest can resolve confusion and build trust among friends.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be truthful in their interactions with family and friends, thereby strengthening relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Animals in the book work together to solve common farmyard problems, showcasing the power of working collaboratively to achieve shared goals.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child’s daily life during group activities at school or collaborative games, teaching them early on about the benefits of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Courage to embrace one’s identity
Explanation: The story's main theme revolves around animals accepting who they are, despite various fears and doubts, promoting self-acceptance and confidence.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to feel secure in their identity and be proud of their uniqueness, which is crucial during formative years.