King of the Classroom: questions to ask and activities to try
He's dressed himself, eaten his pancakes and he's ready to rule! King of the Classroom is a joyful, confident story about starting school.
What age is it for? King of the Classroom is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Starting school with confidence.
King of the Classroom (Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Starting school with confidence
Read it in a proud, excited voice before your child starts school or a new class. Talk about what they're looking forward to.
What it helps with
- Starting school
- Confidence and excitement
- Independence (getting ready yourself)
- New routines
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 did the boy get ready?”
- “How did he feel?”
- “What did he do at school?”
- “Was anything tricky?”
- “What are you looking forward to?”
- “What would you do as king of the classroom?”
5-minute activities to try together
Get ready race
Practise getting dressed for school on your own.
Crown day
Make a paper crown and list what makes your child a great classmate.
Free printables: King of the Classroom 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
Luna Loves Library Day (Joseph Coelho and Fiona Lumbers)
- Best for
- Parents living apart, and special time with each of them
- Age
- 3-7
I'm Going to Make a Friend (Darren Chetty and Sandhya Prabhat)
- Best for
- Moving somewhere new, and working out how to make a friend
- Age
- 3-6
Hello, Friend! (Rebecca Cobb)
- Best for
- Making friends, and noticing what the other person wants
- 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.