A Friend for Henry: questions to ask and activities to try
Henry wants a friend, but he experiences his classroom and friendship differently to his classmates. A Friend for Henry is a gentle look at an autistic boy's day, and at what makes someone a good friend.
What age is it for? A Friend for Henry is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Autism, friendship and sensory/social differences.
A Friend for Henry (Jenn Bailey)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Autism, friendship and sensory/social differences
Henry's experience is one autistic child's experience, not every autistic child's. Use it to talk about what Henry likes and needs, and what a good friend to Henry would do, rather than about what is “wrong”.
What it helps with
- Friendship and autism
- Understanding sensory and social differences
- What makes a good friend
- Patience and noticing what someone else needs
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 makes someone feel like a good friend to Henry?”
- “What did Henry notice in his classroom?”
- “What did Henry find hard, and what did he like?”
- “How did his friend show she understood him?”
- “What do you look for in a friend?”
- “How can you be a good friend to someone who likes different things?”
5-minute activities to try together
Good friend list
Talk about what makes a good friend, then think of one way to be that friend tomorrow.
Quiet and loud
Make two lists together: things that feel too loud or busy, and things that feel calm. Talk about how everyone's lists are different.
Free printables: A Friend for Henry 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
Room on the Broom (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Making room for others, and friends who stick together
- Age
- 3-6
The Invisible Boy (Trudy Ludwig)
- Best for
- Friendship, exclusion, quieter children and inclusion
- Age
- 5-8
The Smartest Giant in Town (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Kindness, generosity and giving to others
- Age
- 3-6
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 1 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.