Piggies in the Pumpkin Patch
on Goodreads (330)
What’s inside...
Piggies plot a peculiar path. Two little piggies run amok on the farm, as they travel from the pumpkin patch, through the garden, into the black bull's pen, and back to mama pig in time for a nap. The piggies' antics introduce young readers to prepositions of direction. Alliteration, assonance, and rhyme in each of the three stanzas make for a great read-aloud. While mama pig naps peacefully among the pumpkins, her two mischievous piggies peek, sneak, chase and race over the beans, behind the sheep, and through the geese. Uh-oh! Are they headed for the big bull's pen?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the piggies are feeling as they explore the pumpkin patch?
How do the different colors and shapes in the pumpkin patch enhance the piggies' adventure?
What would you do if you were in the pumpkin patch with the piggies?
Why do you think the piggies decided to go to the pumpkin patch?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of the piggies' adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the piggies' expressions and actions. This helps them connect emotions to actions and understand character development.
Ask your child to point out their favorite illustration and explain why they like it. This enhances visual literacy and attention to detail.
While reading, pause to predict what might happen next. This fosters imagination and anticipation skills.
Link the story to personal experiences, such as a visit to a farm or pumpkin patch, to make the reading experience more relatable and memorable.
Discuss the concept of adventure with your child, and ask them what kind of adventure they would like to go on. This helps them apply themes from the book to their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Exploration and Curiosity
Explanation: In 'Piggies in the Pumpkin Patch,' the piggies explore their surroundings, showcasing a natural curiosity about the world.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore new activities, ask questions, and learn about their environment, fostering a sense of discovery and learning.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The piggies encounter various challenges in their adventure and work together to solve them.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to think critically and collaboratively solve problems they encounter, whether it's during playtime or dealing with daily tasks.
Example Lesson: The importance of home
Explanation: After a day of adventures, the piggies return to their pumpkin patch, emphasizing the comfort and security of home.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate the stability and love found in their own homes, understanding its importance as a safe space.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Things
Explanation: The piggies enjoy simple activities like playing in mud and running through fields, finding happiness in uncomplicated scenarios.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find joy in everyday moments and appreciate the simple pleasures life offers without needing complex or expensive materials.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the piggies interact respectfully with their natural surroundings, highlighting a harmonious coexistence.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to be mindful and respectful of nature, promoting environmentally friendly behaviors from a young age.