One Smart Sheep
What’s inside...
It takes one smart sheep to escape from a piano movers’ van and find his way home.
Wilson is a curious sheep, and after he foolishly climbs into the back of a piano movers' truck, he ends up alone in the big city, far from the farm. But Wilson is also one smart sheep, and soon enough he's finding his way home to his worried owner by recognizing the sounds that he heard while he was trapped in the truck—a jackhammer, a calliope, a hotdog man. And could that be the excited barking of his friend Tippy, the border collie?
Discussion points
What do you think made the sheep in the story smart? Can you think of a time when you solved a problem in a clever way?
How do you think the other animals felt about the sheep's ideas? Have you ever shared an idea that helped others?
What would you have done if you were in the sheep’s position? Why?
How did the sheep's actions change the way the other characters behaved or thought?
Why is it important to think creatively like the sheep did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think being 'smart' means. This can help frame their understanding of the sheep’s actions as you go through the book.
Pause at key moments in the story and ask your child to predict what might happen next, fostering critical thinking.
Relate the sheep's problem-solving to real-life situations your child might encounter, making the discussion more relevant and engaging.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite part of the story. Use this artwork as a prompt for further discussion about the book's themes.
Celebrate and affirm your child’s responses and ideas during the discussion, enhancing their confidence and interest in sharing.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist sheep faces various challenges and employs his intellect to solve them, demonstrating the importance of thinking critically to overcome hurdles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving techniques in their daily activities, such as figuring out puzzles or resolving conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the story, the sheep learns the value of working together with other farm animals to achieve a common goal, showing that collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice teamwork in group projects at school or during sports, learning the significance of cooperation and communication.
Example Lesson: Courage and perseverance
Explanation: Despite facing obstacles, the sheep courageously perseveres, teaching children the importance of not giving up in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to stay determined during challenging tasks such as learning a new skill or completing a difficult homework assignment.
Example Lesson: Creativity and innovation
Explanation: In the book, the sheep uses creative methods to solve problems, highlighting the benefits of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to use their imagination in creative arts or find inventive solutions to everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Emotional intelligence
Explanation: The sheep shows empathy and understanding towards other characters' feelings, illustrating the role of emotional intelligence in building healthy relationships.
Real-World Application: This can guide children in recognizing and respecting the emotions of others, aiding in their social interactions and development of empathy.