A Little Chicken: The Perfect Children’s Book for Overcoming Fear

The story of a shy little chicken named Dot in Tammi Sauer’s delightful children’s book A Little Chicken shows kids how to get over their fears. With its bright pictures and positive message, it’s become a favorite read for both kids and adults.

Overview of A Little Chicken

A Little Chicken tells the tale of Dot, a chicken who is easily frightened by things like wolves, bears, and garden gnomes She wants to be brave, but often finds herself paralyzed by fear. Her situation changes when one of her mother’s eggs rolls out of the nest. To save her unborn sibling, Dot musters up courage to chase the egg through challenging obstacles like a steep hill, a deep pond, and the dark woods.

After overcoming scary encounters with real dangers, Dot safely returns with the egg just as her new sister hatches. The book concludes by stating that “sometimes a big hero is just a little chicken.”

Written by acclaimed children’s author Tammi Sauer and illustrated by Dan Taylor, A Little Chicken was published in 2019 by Union Square Kids. It’s a 32-page hardcover picture book aimed at kids ages 3 to 7.

Key Themes and Takeaways

A Little Chicken beautifully delivers the message that anyone can be brave by tapping into their inner strength. Specifically, it highlights:

• Conquering Irrational Fears: Dot is afraid of harmless things like garden gnomes. Through her journey, she learns to overcome unrealistic anxieties.

• Courage Finds a Way: When Dot’s love for her sibling overtakes her fear, she discovers unknown reserves of courage. The book shows that bravery can emerge in unexpected ways.

• Strength in Small Packages: Despite her tiny size, Dot summons huge courage to save the egg. The story reminds us not to overlook the inner strength in someone just because they’re little.

• Positive Self-Talk: Dot repeats positive mantras like “I can do this!” as she overcomes each scary obstacle. The book models using uplifting self-talk to build bravery.

So, even though it’s funny sometimes, A Little Chicken teaches us important things. Dot keeps going even though she is scared because she is focused on saving her brother or sister. Through perseverance and positivity, she eventually succeeds.

Why Kids & Parents Love It

A Little Chicken has won over kids and parents alike thanks to its warm illustrations, humor, and inspirational storyline. Specific reasons for its popularity include:

• Relatable Hero: Children see themselves in the initially frightened but ultimately brave Dot. Her emotional journey from fear to courage is one kids can relate to.

• Humor: Dot’s over-the-top fear of lawn ornaments adds funny elements that keep the story entertaining.

• Rhyming Text: The clever rhyming patterns make A Little Chicken fun to read aloud. The rhythmic language sticks in kids’ minds.

• Positive Message: Parents appreciate the book’s central theme about summoning inner strength to overcome fear. It’s a lesson kids won’t soon forget.

• Beautiful Art: Dan Taylor’s bright and lively illustrations capture the cozy farm world and enrich the story. Kids love poring over the pictures.

How to Use A Little Chicken to Help Kids Overcome Fear

Beyond being a delight to read, A Little Chicken can be a useful tool to help children deal with anxiety. Here are some tips:

• Read the story when your child is fearful. Dot’s journey will reassure them that courage is possible.

• Highlight positive moments like when Dot says affirmations to herself. Discuss how self-talk can make us feel braver.

• Compare irrational fears like Dot’s fear of garden gnomes to those your child may have. Help them realize when a fear is unrealistic.

• Talk about times your child has shown courage like Dot. Remind them of their inner resilience.

• Practice role playing the story. Take turns playing Dot facing scary situations. Discuss how she could think and act brave.

• Make a “bravery toolkit” with your child including items like a superhero cape, magic wand, etc. to inspire courage.

• Have your child make a list of “Super Brave Me” statements like Dot uses. Write them on post-its to post around their room for encouragement.

Why A Little Chicken Is a Must-Read for Kids

Anxiety disorders are becoming more common in younger kids, and books like “A Little Chicken” are a fun and comforting way to talk about fear. Not only is it a cute story that will make you laugh, but it also has a message that will give you strength. Kids learn that brave people come in all forms, even a little chicken! Get ready to laugh and cheer as Dot opens up and finds her inner hero! This book, “A Little Chicken,” is great for helping kids believe that they can get through anything that scares them.