Guiding Questions for Parents.

Definition: Showing respect means to use words and actions that show we care about all people and things. In short: Value others, honor differences. Summary: This well known fable is about a boy who gets bored while doing his job of guarding sheep. He tricks the villagers two times by shouting “Wolf!” when there was no danger. Because the shepherd lied, the villagers lost trust in the shepherd, so they don’t come running the third time when the boy cries “wolf”. The danger is real this time and the wolf does come to attack the sheep. The boy reaps the consequences of lying when he fails to protect the sheep and earns the distrust of the villagers. Lesson Objectives:

Students will use self-restraint when tempted to trick someone (if it’s a hurtful trick).
They will catch themselves when tempted to lie, and choose to be truthful and respectful of others.

Guiding Questions:

Why do you think the shepherd decided to lie?
How did he feel after he lied the first two times? Why?
How did he feel after he lied the third time? Why?
Why were the villagers so upset each time the boy lied?
Why would no one hire him until he realized his mistake and apologized?
Would you want to be friends with this boy? Why or why not?
Is there something the boy could do to make up for what he did?
Has anyone ever tried to trick you? What happened and how did that make you feel?
Did you ever try to trick someone? What happened and how did you feel about it?
Are there times when tricking someone is okay?

🌿 Virtue Connection: Respect means seeing the worth in every person.

About the Story.

This guide is part of the Values & Virtues library, a free collection of 400+ book guides and activities organized around 12 core virtues for children from pre-K to 6th grade. Each guide includes Guiding Questions designed to open a real conversation with your child in 10 minutes or less.