A Squash and a Squeeze: questions to ask and activities to try
A little old lady thinks her house is too small, until a wise old man has her bring in all her animals. Once they leave, the house feels huge. A funny way into gratitude and seeing things differently.
What age is it for? A Squash and a Squeeze is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Seeing that what you have is enough, and looking at a problem differently.
A Squash and a Squeeze (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Seeing that what you have is enough, and looking at a problem differently
Ask why the house felt bigger at the end. It's a light-touch way to talk about appreciating what you have, and about how a problem can look different from another angle.
What it helps with
- Gratitude and contentment
- Seeing a problem differently
- Feeling things aren't enough
- Moving to a smaller space
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.
- “Why did the house feel bigger at the end?”
- “What did the old lady think was wrong with her house?”
- “Was the wise old man's idea silly or clever?”
- “What do you like about your home?”
- “Is there something you wish was bigger or better?”
- “How could you look at it differently?”
5-minute activities to try together
Three things I like about home
Each name three things you like about your home or bedroom as it is.
Squash and squeeze game
See how many soft toys you can squeeze into a small box, then take them out one by one and notice how much room there is.
Free printables: A Squash and a Squeeze 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.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
The Koala Who Could (Rachel Bright and Jim Field)
- Best for
- Handling change and unfamiliar situations
- Age
- 3+
Stick Man (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Missing home or family, and being away from people you love
- Age
- 3-6
This Beach Is Loud! (Samantha Cotterill)
- Best for
- Sensory overwhelm and busy environments
- Age
- 4-8
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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.