Outside In: questions to ask and activities to try
Outside is always there, even when we're indoors. Outside In is a mindful, Caldecott Honor picture book about the ways nature reaches into our everyday lives.
What age is it for? Outside In is best for ages 4–7. Good for: Noticing nature even when you're indoors.
Outside In (Deborah Underwood and Cindy Derby)
- Age
- 4-7
- Best for
- Noticing nature even when you're indoors
Read it slowly, then look around the room for things that came from outside: wood, food, light. Then go outside together.
What it helps with
- Mindful noticing
- Connection to nature
- Calm, slow reading
- Where everyday things come from
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 does outside call us?”
- “What in our house came from outside?”
- “What can you see from the window?”
- “How do you feel outside?”
- “Where does our food come from?”
- “What’s your favourite outdoor place?”
5-minute activities to try together
Outside hunt
Find ten things in the house that came from nature.
Window watch
Sit at a window for two minutes and say everything you notice.
Free printables: Outside In 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
Hey, Water! (Antoinette Portis)
- Best for
- Spotting water everywhere, from rain to tears
- Age
- 3-7
Trees (Lemniscates)
- Best for
- Noticing trees through the seasons
- Age
- 3-7
Beneath (Cori Doerrfeld)
- Best for
- Feelings hidden beneath the surface
- Age
- 3-7
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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.