It's Only Stanley: questions to ask and activities to try
Bang! Clang! It's only Stanley... but what is that dog up to all night? It's Only Stanley is a funny rhyming story where children can spot what the family can't.
What age is it for? It's Only Stanley is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Spotting what's really going on in a funny rhyme.
It's Only Stanley (Jon Agee)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Spotting what's really going on in a funny rhyme
Let your child look for clues about what Stanley is building. Read the “It's only Stanley” line together each time.
What it helps with
- Spotting clues in pictures
- Joining in with a repeated line
- Rhyme and humour
- Predicting what will happen
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 noises did the family hear?”
- “What did Walter say each time?”
- “What was Stanley doing?”
- “What clues did you spot?”
- “Where did they end up?”
- “What would your pet build?”
5-minute activities to try together
Noise guess
Make noises behind a door and let your child guess what you're doing.
Stanley's invention
Draw what you'd build if you were Stanley.
Free printables: It's Only Stanley 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
Where Is the Dragon? (Leo Timmers)
- Best for
- Scary shapes in the dark, and a clever hidden dragon
- Age
- 3-6
We're Going on a Picnic! (Pat Hutchins)
- Best for
- Spotting what the characters don't notice
- Age
- 2-5
Rosie's Walk (Pat Hutchins)
- Best for
- Position words, and spotting what the character can't see
- Age
- 2-5
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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.