Ten Eggs in a Nest (Bright & Early Books(R))
Bright & Early Books(R) Series
What’s inside...
Beginning readers can learn to count to ten and practice simple addition while reading about Gwen the hen and Red Rooster's adventures with their newly hatched chicks. As each egg hatches, Red Rooster excitedly buys worms for the chicks, but struggles to keep up as more chicks hatch than expected. This humorous and educational Bright and Early Book by Marilyn Sadler, illustrated by Michael Fleming, teaches counting, addition, buying and selling, and facts about chickens and eggs. It's an ideal choice for parents who want to teach their children reading and math skills.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the eggs felt when they were about to hatch?
What would you do if you found a surprise like Gwen the hen did?
Why is it important for Red the rooster to find food for his chicks?
How do you think working together helps the characters in the story?
What would you have done if you were in Red's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being in the story, enhancing empathy and understanding. Ask questions about the characters' feelings and actions to deepen comprehension. Relate the story's themes to your child's everyday life to make the narrative more relevant and engaging. Use expressive reading techniques like different voices for each character to make the reading experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Counting and Number Recognition
Explanation: Throughout the story, children are introduced to counting as the number of eggs in the nest increases. This repetitive numerical theme helps young readers recognize and understand numbers.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this skill in everyday life by counting objects around them, such as toys, stairs, or even snacks, enhancing their mathematical skills from an early age.
Example Lesson: Patience and Anticipation
Explanation: The story builds suspense as each egg hatches one by one, teaching children the value of patience and the excitement of anticipation.
Real-World Application: This can help children manage their expectations and learn the virtue of waiting, whether it be for their turn to play a game, for a special occasion, or waiting for their food to be ready.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: In the end, the characters share the worms they find with each other. This act of sharing highlights the themes of generosity and community.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to share their belongings and treats with siblings and friends, helping to foster a sense of community and goodwill from a young age.
Example Lesson: Understanding Natural Processes
Explanation: The book illustrates the process of eggs hatching into chicks, providing a basic understanding of animal life cycles.
Real-World Application: Children can observe similar processes in nature, such as birds nesting in their surroundings, or through activities like planting seeds and watching them grow, which promotes a deeper connection with the natural world.