The Story of Little Red Riding Hood For Kids

“Little Red Riding Hood” is a European fairy tale from the 10th century. Having taken extracts from several European folk tales, including one from Italy called The False Grandmother, two of the most well-known versions were written by Charles Perrault in the 17th century and later by the Brothers Grimm. “Little Red Cap” or “Red Riding Hood” were some of the other names of the story. Interpreted in numerous ways in a different culture, this classic story has been subjected to countless modern adaptations in literature, television, animation films, music, musicals and games to become a favourite among its readers. 

This folktale embodies fantasies, experiences and mysteries that stretch our imagination, making Little Red Riding Hood bedtime story a favourite among kids of all ages. Let us find out what exactly happens to the little girl wearing a red tunic who wanders to the woods and encounters a wolf. Here is the full story of Little Red Riding Hood in English.

Short Story of Little Red Riding Hood for Children

In a small cottage on the edge of a thick forest, lived Little Red Riding Hood and her mother. The girl was called so, for she wore a cloak made of red velvet, given to her by her grandmother. One summer day, Little Red Riding Hood was sent by her mother to visit her granny as she was unwell.

“Take this basket of cakes to gran, Little Red, keep to the path and don’t talk to strangers,” said her mother.

“Yes, mummy!” came the cheerful reply.

Grandma lived on the forest’s other side, and Little Red Riding Hood set out towards her cottage. When she was well into the forest, she heard a sudden rustle behind her that made her heart start beating faster. A dark shadow came to stand beside her and a low, gruff voice spoke.

“Where are you going all alone in the woods, Red Riding Hood ?”

“I’m to visit my poorly grandma, Mister Wolf, she lives at the edge of the forest in a cottage under the oak trees, you must be knowing it,” said Little Red, forgetting her mother’s wise advice.

“No, I don’t think I do. Well, I think those bluebells over there would make a wonderful nosegay for granny, don’t you?” asked the wolf, but poor Red didn’t see his intentions; he was planning on eating her and her gran up!

“You’re right, I do! Thank you, Mister Wolf!” said she, and skipped to the blue dotted thicket.

The wolf quietly stepped back and ran all the way to grandma’s cottage. He called out, pretending to be gran’s beloved Red Riding Hood.

“Granny, let me in! It’s me, Little Red Riding Hood!”

“Let yourself in dear, I’m too tired!” Gran replied in a hoarse voice.

Slinking in, the wicked wolf latched the door behind him. Soon after, he had locked Gran up in the cupboard, worn her clothes, drawn the curtains, and laid himself in the bed, pulling the covers over his nose.

Meanwhile, Little Red had picked out some bluebells and cornflowers. As she was about to turn back to the path and continue on her journey, she noticed some lilies up ahead.

“I’ll take a few for mummy, she wouldn’t mind…they are her favourite, after all,” thought Little Red Riding Hood.

Happy with all the flowers she had picked, she realised she was lost. Then, she met a woodcutter and asked him where the path was. Soon she reached her Gran’s cottage and knocked on the door.

“Let me in Gran, it’s Red Riding Hood, and I’ve brought you cakes!” Red called.

“How lovely darling, open the latch and come inside! And don’t forget to shut the door behind you,” cried the evil wolf.

“Gran, your voice sounds odd…have you caught a cold?” asked Little Red.

“Oh..er..yes, darling, I have a dreadful cold,” the wolf replied.

“Goodness, what big eyes you have, Grandma!” said Red, as she set the basket on a table.

“All the better to see you with!” replied the wolf.

“And what big ears you have!”  said Red, as she inched closer to the bed.

“All the better to see you with, my dear!” said the wolf slyly.

“Oh my! What big teeth you have, Gran!” exclaimed Little Red, her voice trembling.

“All the better to EAT YOU WITH!” screamed the wolf, as he pounced on the poor girl as she tried to squirm out of his grip.

Red Riding Hood screamed for help, remembering the woodcutter who had helped her find her way. Fortunately, the man was near the cottage and rushed there at once. He broke down the door and beat the wolf unconscious. Then, Red rushed to let her Gran out, who had started shouting for help. They thanked the woodcutter, who’d carried the wolf outside. And so they were safe from the wicked wolf forever.

What Is the Moral of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ Story?

The story of “Little Red Riding Hood” teaches us to be careful around strangers and to listen to our parents. Little Red Riding Hood gets into trouble because she talks to the wolf and doesn’t follow her mother’s advice. The story reminds us to pay attention to our surroundings, be cautious of who we trust, and not be fooled by appearances. Parents, too, must prioritise the safety of their children no matter how responsible or independent they may seem.

FAQs

1. Why is she called Little Red Riding Hood?

She is called Little Red Riding Hood because of her red hooded cloak. This dress makes her unique and is an important part of her character, helping to show her innocence as she travels through the forest.

2. Do other fairy tales have talking animals or magical creatures?

Yes, the story for class 1 often features talking animals or magical beings. Stories like “The Three Little Pigs” and “The Frog Prince” include these elements, adding fun and excitement to the tales while teaching important lessons.

The Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale for kids is a story about the never-ending fight between good and evil, about greed and hope, and about responsibility and second chances. Thus, the moral of this famous story stays relevant even today, highlighting the need to be cautious and act smart at every step, as who knows what dangers are lurking around the next corner? So, if you haven’t already, read this Little Red Riding Hood short story with moral for your kids now.

Also Read:

The Snow Queen Story for Children
Adam and Eve Bible Story for Children
Panchatantra Short Stories for Kids
Best Akbar and Birbal Stories for Children
The Story of Elves and the Shoemaker for Kids

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