Scowls, frowns, crabbiness, and a general feeling of malcontent? Totally fine. Because when it comes to pet ownership, you need to find the pet that works for you. Even when you’re grouchy!

We recommend reading The Grumpy Pets by Kristine Lombardi (Harry N. Abrams, 2016). Billy’s mom notices that Billy seems extra grumpy, so she take him and his sister to Perfect Pets Animal Rescue. Will the cute, fuzzy, and adorable pets cheer Billy up? Nope. Stalking through the store, however, Billy finds himself in a very different section. The “Grumpy Pets” section. It’s filled with rows and rows of grouchy, moody, scowling, animals. Billy and a dog have a grumpy stare down and you know what? It might just be love at first sight. Is that a smile we see when Billy gives his new dog a cuddle?

You’ll need:

• Paper cups
• Construction paper
• Scissors and tape and/or glue
• Markers for decorating

Use markers and/or construction paper to turn a paper cup into a scowling pet. I think Katie’s “hamster with an attitude” is my favorite…

When everyone is finished, it’s time for a game! Line the pets up on a “pet store” table. One by one, have the kids find their pets, then tell the group (or, if they’re shy, their grown-ups) the pet’s name and what the pet hates. However, the kids must have tremendous scowls on their faces while talking. The minute they smile or laugh, their turn is up!

For older kids, allow the audience to ask the scowling pet owner questions about their pet. Hint: questions about the pet’s potty habits are sure to crack even the most stone-faced 6 year-old.