Using a Classic Story to Teach Helping and Teamwork
We all want our kiddos to be more helpful, more team-oriented, and let’s be honest — just a little less me-centered sometimes. But teaching those big life lessons? It doesn’t have to be complicated.
Sometimes, all you need is a good story and a little time to talk.
One of my go-to favorites? The Little Red Hen (my favorite version is by Lucinda McQueen).
Why This Story Still Works
You might remember The Little Red Hen from your own childhood — it’s the one where the hen does literally everything herself while the other animals lounge around. Then when the bread’s done? Everyone suddenly wants a slice.
Classic.
And that’s exactly why it’s perfect for teaching:
- Helping vs. watching
- The value of teamwork
- Responsibility and natural consequences
It shows what happens when people don’t pitch in.
How to Make It Meaningful (Without Over-Explaining)
Whether you’re reading the story aloud or watching a retelling, here’s how to turn it into a teachable moment.
1. Pause and Ask, “What Would You Do?”
As you go through the story, stop and ask:
- “What do you think the hen is feeling right now?”
- “If you were one of the animals, would you help?”
- “How would you feel if you did all the work and no one helped?”
These questions help kids step into someone else’s shoes — which is the beginning of empathy.
2. Connect It to Real Life
After the story, tie it back to your classroom or home:
- “Have you ever helped clean up even when it wasn’t your mess?”
- “What’s something we can all work on together today?”
When kids see that teamwork isn’t just a story thing — it’s a real-life thing — they’re more likely to remember (and apply) it.
3. Add a Hands-On Activity
Follow up with something fun and reflective, like:
- Drawing their favorite part of the story
- Making a simple bread recipe as a class or at home (bonus lesson!)
- Re-enacting the story with simple props or puppets (let them be the Little Red Hen, the dog, the cat — drama makes it stick!)
Anything that gets their little hands moving while reinforcing the message = a win.
Keep It Simple. Keep It Consistent.
Big character traits like helping and teamwork don’t form overnight. But when we:
- Read stories that model it
- Talk about it
- Praise it when we see it…
We’re laying the foundation. One read-aloud at a time.
