The Squirrels Who Squabbled
Squirrels Series
What’s inside...
In 'The Squirrels Who Squabbled', two squirrels, Cyril and Bruce, engage in a humorous and spirited fight over the last nut of the season. As they chase each other and squabble, they fail to notice the dangers around them and soon find themselves in a perilous situation. Through their adventure, they learn about the value of sharing and friendship. The book is used but in good condition, and due to its age, it may contain normal signs of use.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made the squirrels start squabbling?
How do you feel when you share with others?
What could the squirrels have done differently to avoid squabbling?
How did the squirrels' relationship change by the end of the book?
Why is it important to work together and share?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open-ended responses to foster deeper understanding and interpretation of the story.
Use expressive reading aloud techniques to make characters and situations more relatable to your child.
Pause intermittently while reading to ask how your child might feel or react in a similar situation as the squirrels.
Discuss the moral of the story and relate it to real-life scenarios to help your child connect the themes beyond the book.
Celebrate the resolution of the story to emphasize the positive outcomes of sharing and cooperation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of sharing
Explanation: In the story, the squirrels learn to share the last pine cone instead of fighting over it. This act of sharing benefits both of them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to share toys or other resources with their siblings or friends, leading to more harmonious playtimes and friendships.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The squirrels’ squabble is resolved when they decide to work together. This collaboration allows them to both enjoy the pine cone, showing that teamwork can lead to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in group activities at school or during sports, where cooperation with others is key to achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: The consequences of greed
Explanation: Initially, each squirrel’s greed leads to chaos and potential loss of the pine cone. This illustrates the negative consequences of being overly greedy or selfish.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to everyday situations where being greedy might spoil their relationships or prevent them from enjoying experiences fully with others.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving under pressure
Explanation: As the pine cone begins to roll away, the squirrels must quickly decide to cooperate. Their ability to solve a problem under pressure helps them secure their shared goal.
Real-World Application: Kids are often in situations at school or home where quick thinking is required. This story encourages them to stay calm and think collaboratively during such moments.