Blue Penguin: questions to ask and activities to try
Blue Penguin feels just like any other penguin, but the others don't agree. Blue Penguin is a moving story about being different, being left out, and finding where you belong.
What age is it for? Blue Penguin is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Being different and wanting to belong.
Read it slowly and look at Blue Penguin on his own against the white snow. Ask how he feels, and how the others could have treated him. It's a good starting point for talking about including others.
What it helps with
- Being left out for being different
- Including someone who seems different
- Belonging, and finding your people
- Showing kindness to someone on their own
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.
- “How was Blue Penguin different?”
- “What did the other penguins say to him?”
- “How did he feel when they left him alone?”
- “What did Blue Penguin do?”
- “How did the others change?”
- “How could you help someone who is left out?”
5-minute activities to try together
Everyone in
Draw a group of penguins, all different colours and patterns, standing together.
Kind words
Think of three things you could say to someone new or left out at nursery or school. Practise saying them.
Free printables: Blue Penguin 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
Elmer (David McKee)
- Best for
- Children who feel different or want to fit in
- Age
- 2-6
The Invisible Boy (Trudy Ludwig)
- Best for
- Friendship, exclusion, quieter children and inclusion
- Age
- 5-8
Perfectly Norman (Tom Percival)
- Best for
- A child who hides something about themselves to fit in
- Age
- 4-7
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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.