A Brave Bear: questions to ask and activities to try
It's a hot, hot day, and Little Bear wants to show Dad how brave he is. A Brave Bear is a warm, joyful story about trying brave things, and the people who help us when they go wrong.
What age is it for? A Brave Bear is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Being brave, and the people who help us.
A Brave Bear (Sean Taylor and Emily Hughes)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Being brave, and the people who help us
Read it with a dad, grandad or carer if you can. Pause before the big jump and ask what your child thinks will happen. Afterwards, talk about times they were brave and who helped them.
What it helps with
- Trying something brave
- What to do when a brave try goes wrong
- Feeling safe with a grown-up who loves you
- Celebrating dads and carers
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did Little Bear and Dad Bear do on the hot day?”
- “Why did Little Bear want to make a big jump?”
- “What happened when he jumped?”
- “How did Dad Bear help?”
- “What is something brave you have done?”
- “Who helps you feel brave?”
5-minute activities to try together
Brave jumps
Set out cushions as stepping stones. Take turns jumping across, and cheer each other on, even if someone wobbles.
Who helps me
Draw the people who help your child feel brave, and talk about what each one does.
Free printables: A Brave Bear worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
After the Fall (Dan Santat)
- Best for
- Children who are scared to try again after something went wrong
- Age
- 4-8
We're Going on a Bear Hunt (Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury)
- Best for
- Keeping going when something is hard, and facing fears together
- Age
- 2-6
Supertato (Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet)
- Best for
- Bravery, helping others, and a lot of laughs
- Age
- 3-6
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.