Slinky Malinki: questions to ask and activities to try
Slinky Malinki is a cat who steals things at night, from slippers to a string of sausages, until he gets caught. Lynley Dodd’s rhyming picture book is a funny way to talk about taking things that aren’t yours.
What age is it for? Slinky Malinki is best for ages 2–6. Good for: A naughty cat, rhyming fun, and learning that taking things isn't OK.
Slinky Malinki (Lynley Dodd)
- Age
- 2-6
- Best for
- A naughty cat, rhyming fun, and learning that taking things isn't OK
Enjoy the rhymes first. On a second read, spot what Slinky takes on each page, then talk about how his family felt when they found it all.
What it helps with
- Talking about taking things that aren’t yours
- Owning up and making things right
- Rhyme and rhythm
- Spotting details in pictures
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 did Slinky Malinki take?”
- “Why do you think he took things?”
- “How did his family feel when they found out?”
- “What happened when he got caught?”
- “What could he do to make it right?”
- “Is it ever OK to take something that isn’t yours?”
5-minute activities to try together
Give it back
Hide five small things belonging to different people. Find them, then return each one with a "Here you are".
Rhyme time
Find the rhyming words in the book, then make up a new rhyme about something Slinky might steal.
Free printables: Slinky Malinki 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
Hairy Maclary from Donaldson's Dairy (Lynley Dodd)
- Best for
- A rhyming walk with a gang of dogs
- Age
- 1-5
Mog the Forgetful Cat (Judith Kerr)
- Best for
- Getting things wrong, and being loved anyway
- Age
- 2-5
The Tiger Who Came to Tea (Judith Kerr)
- Best for
- Coping calmly when plans change unexpectedly
- Age
- 2-6
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 17 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.