Just Ask!: questions to ask and activities to try
A group of children with different abilities and conditions plant a garden together, each bringing something of their own. Just Ask! helps children talk about difference with curiosity rather than fear.
What age is it for? Just Ask! is best for ages 4–8. Good for: General conversations about disability, difference and respectful curiosity.
Just Ask! (Sonia Sotomayor)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- General conversations about disability, difference and respectful curiosity
The message is in the title: if you're curious, ask kindly. Talk about kind ways to ask, and about how each child in the garden brings something different.
What it helps with
- Talking about difference without fear
- Asking kind, respectful questions
- Seeing everyone's strengths
- Working together as a team
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 is a kind way to ask someone about something you're curious about?”
- “What did each child bring to the garden?”
- “Which child was most like you?”
- “What's something you're really good at?”
- “What's something a friend is really good at?”
- “How do differences make a team stronger?”
5-minute activities to try together
What they're good at
Think of a friend and talk about one thing they're really good at.
Grow something together
Plant a seed or a cutting, and give everyone in the family a different job in looking after it.
Free printables: Just Ask! 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
What Happened to You? (James Catchpole)
- Best for
- Physical disability, limb difference, curiosity and privacy
- Age
- 4-8
You're SO Amazing! (James Catchpole and Lucy Catchpole)
- Best for
- Disability, inclusion and avoiding inspiration stereotypes
- Age
- 4-8
My City Speaks (Darren Lebeuf)
- Best for
- Visual impairment and sensory exploration
- 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.