Monkey Puzzle: questions to ask and activities to try
A little monkey has lost his mum, and a butterfly tries to help find her, with lots of wrong guesses along the way. Monkey Puzzle is a gentle way to practise what to do if you get lost.
What age is it for? Monkey Puzzle is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Getting lost, and asking someone for help.
Monkey Puzzle (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Getting lost, and asking someone for help
Ask what the little monkey did when he was lost, and why describing his mum clearly helped. Then practise what your child would say and who they could ask.
What it helps with
- Getting lost
- Asking for help
- Describing things clearly
- Staying calm when separated
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 would you do if you couldn't see me in a shop?”
- “How did the little monkey feel when he lost his mum?”
- “Why did the butterfly keep finding the wrong animals?”
- “What helped them find his mum in the end?”
- “Who could you ask for help if you were lost?”
- “How would you describe me to someone?”
5-minute activities to try together
A lost plan
Practise what your child would say if they got lost, and who they could ask.
Describe me game
Take turns describing a family member in three clues, and guess who it is.
Free printables: Monkey Puzzle 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
The Gruffalo (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Feeling scared, and using your wits
- Age
- 3-6
Stick Man (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Missing home or family, and being away from people you love
- Age
- 3-6
The Huge Bag of Worries (Virginia Ironside)
- Best for
- Talking about worries
- Age
- 5-8
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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.