I Won't Eat That: questions to ask and activities to try
Cat is hungry, but he won't eat cat food, worms or anything else on offer. I Won't Eat That is a funny story about fussy eating and finding out what you really want.
What age is it for? I Won't Eat That is best for ages 2–6. Good for: Fussy eating, and finding what you like.
I Won't Eat That (Christopher Silas Neal)
- Age
- 2-6
- Best for
- Fussy eating, and finding what you like
Read it with lots of disgusted faces for each food. Ask your child what each animal eats, and whether they would eat it. Then talk, lightly, about foods they like and foods they're unsure of.
What it helps with
- Fussy eating
- Learning what different animals eat
- Saying no politely
- Laughing about food dislikes
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 didn’t Cat want cat food?”
- “What does Tortoise eat?”
- “Why didn’t Cat want worms?”
- “What did Cat eat in the end?”
- “What food do you not like?”
- “What food would you like to try?”
5-minute activities to try together
Who eats what?
Match pictures or toys of animals to the foods they eat.
Yes, no, maybe
Sort pictures of foods into three piles: yes, no and maybe. Try one maybe this week.
Free printables: I Won't Eat That 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
I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato (Lauren Child)
- Best for
- Fussy eating, and imagination at mealtimes
- Age
- 3-7
Green Eggs and Ham (Dr. Seuss)
- Best for
- Trying new foods and new things before deciding you don't like them
- Age
- 3-7
Hungry Hen (Richard Waring and Caroline Jayne Church)
- Best for
- A very simple story with a brilliant twist
- Age
- 2-6
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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.