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: