Little Wooden Farmer
What’s inside...
The 'Little Wooden Farmer' by Alice Dalgliesh is a children's book that tells the story of a farmer and his wife who live on a farm that lacks animals. Wishing to bring life to their farm, they decide to fill it with wooden animals, including cows, pigs, and chickens. Each day, the farmer and his wife pretend that their wooden animals are real, taking care of them as if they were alive. One night, a storm brings a ship to their shore, carrying real animals. The sailors, grateful for the farmer's help during the storm, gift the real animals to the farmer and his wife. The couple's kindness and imagination are rewarded, and their farm becomes lively with the sounds of real animals. The book celebrates creativity, the power of imagination, and the joy of making one's dreams come true.
Discussion points
What do you think the Little Wooden Farmer would do next if the story continued?
How do you feel about the way the Little Wooden Farmer solved his problem?
What are some ways we can be helpful to our friends, like the characters in the book?
If you were a character in the story, who would you be and why?
What was your favorite part of the book, and why did it stand out to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session more lively and engaging.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or what might happen next in the story to foster creativity.
Discuss the morale of the story and how it can apply to your child’s everyday life, reinforcing the lessons learned.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book or a new character they would add to enhance their connection to the story.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask predictive questions and encourage critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through the character of the Little Wooden Farmer who takes care of his farm and animals, children learn the importance of being responsible.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by undertaking small chores at home or looking after their own belongings or pets, learning the value of consistency and care.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The book shows how the Little Wooden Farmer solves problems on the farm using creative solutions, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to engage in creative activities like drawing, building, or storytelling, applying imaginative thinking to overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The Little Wooden Farmer faces various challenges but doesn't give up, teaching children the importance of perseverance despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be mirrored in a child's life through persisting with their learning or hobbies, even when they find aspects challenging.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: The book highlights how the Little Wooden Farmer works together with his animals and neighbors to run the farm efficiently.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cooperate with siblings, friends, and classmates in group tasks or play, understanding that teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The story’s setting in a farm environment helps children understand the importance of nature and taking care of our environment.
Real-World Application: This can translate to children participating in recycling, gardening, or simple outdoor activities, fostering a connection with and care for the environment.