The Chicken Problem
#1 in Peg + Cat Series
on Goodreads (374)
What’s inside...
Full of humor, refreshingly original characters, and math problems that young readers will be clamoring to help solve, The Chicken Problem is an ideal addition to the home or classroom. Left-brained Peg and her right-brained pal, Cat, are enjoying a picnic on the farm with Pig. However, when someone leaves the chicken coop open and the chicks run-a-muck, it's up to Peg and Cat to use their math skills to help solve their poultry predicament. The very first picture book based on the math-themed, Emmy Award-winning PBS cartoon.
Discussion points
Why do you think Peg and Cat decided to help solve the chicken problem?
What are some ways you would try to solve the problem if you were in the story?
How did Peg and Cat feel when they saw all the chickens? Can you describe a time when you felt similar?
What do you think is the most important lesson from this story?
How do you think the story would change if there were no chickens at all?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss the book, mimic some actions from the story, like counting or looking surprised, to make the conversation more lively and engaging.
Refer to specific illustrations in the book when discussing particular scenes, this can help make the connection between the words and visuals stronger.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different problems within the story to foster creative thinking.
Focus on the emotions of the characters by asking your child how they think the character felt in certain situations, promoting empathy and understanding.
Use the discussion as an opportunity to introduce basic math concepts like counting and sorting, which are embedded in the story’s plot.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: In 'The Chicken Problem,' the characters face the challenge of rounding up escaped chickens, requiring them to think critically and devise a plan.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving strategies from the story when they encounter puzzles or difficulties in schoolwork or play, learning to think through solutions step-by-step.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and teamwork
Explanation: The book showcases characters working together to solve the chicken dilemma, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of collaborating with others whether during group projects at school or in team sports, understanding that combined efforts often lead to success.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the story take responsibility for the chaos caused by the chickens and work to rectify the situation, demonstrating accountability for their actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to own up to their responsibilities, whether it's tidying up their rooms, completing their homework, or taking care of a pet.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: As the characters in 'The Chicken Problem' come up with innovative solutions to catch the chickens, the story praises creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity to overcome obstacles and challenges they face, boosting their problem-solving skills.