Cops and Robbers: questions to ask and activities to try
The robbers plan to steal all the toys on Christmas Eve, but brave Officer Pugh is on the case. Cops and Robbers is a rhyming classic from the Ahlbergs.
What age is it for? Cops and Robbers is best for ages 3–7. Good for: A rhyming chase, and good triumphing over naughty.
Cops and Robbers (Janet and Allan Ahlberg)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- A rhyming chase, and good triumphing over naughty
Read it with a bouncy rhythm and enjoy the chase. Talk about why stealing is wrong, and who gets away.
What it helps with
- Rhyme and rhythm
- Right and wrong
- Bravery and helping others
- Christmas stories
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 the robbers want to steal?”
- “When did they plan it?”
- “Who stopped them?”
- “Who got away?”
- “Why is stealing wrong?”
- “What would you do if you saw a robber?”
5-minute activities to try together
Cops and robbers
Play a gentle chase game: who's the officer and who's the robber?
Wanted poster
Draw a wanted poster for Grandma Swagg.
Free printables: Cops and Robbers 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
Funnybones (Janet and Allan Ahlberg)
- Best for
- A funny-not-scary classic about skeletons
- Age
- 3-7
Peepo! (Janet and Allan Ahlberg)
- Best for
- Peekaboo, rhyme and noticing details
- Age
- 0-3
The Highway Rat (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Taking what isn't yours, greed and learning to share
- 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.