The Day War Came: questions to ask and activities to try
On an ordinary day, war came. The Day War Came is a powerful picture book about a child refugee and a simple act of kindness.
What age is it for? The Day War Came is best for ages 5–9. Good for: A child forced to flee war, and a small act of kindness.
The Day War Came (Nicola Davies and Rebecca Cobb)
- Age
- 5-9
- Best for
- A child forced to flee war, and a small act of kindness
Read it gently, and stop if your child needs to. Focus on the ending, where children make a difference.
What it helps with
- War and refugees
- Empathy
- Kindness from children
- Belonging
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 was the girl doing when war came?”
- “What happened to her town?”
- “Where did she go?”
- “Why couldn’t she go to school?”
- “What did the children do?”
- “How could you make someone feel welcome?”
5-minute activities to try together
Welcome chair
Talk about how to make room for a new child in class.
Kindness drawing
Draw a small act of kindness that changes someone's day.
Free printables: The Day War Came 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.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
My Name Is Not Refugee (Kate Milner)
- Best for
- A refugee journey, with questions for the reader
- Age
- 4-8
Wisp: A Story of Hope (Zana Fraillon and Grahame Baker-Smith)
- Best for
- Hope for a child born in a refugee camp
- Age
- 4-9
Lubna and Pebble (Wendy Meddour and Daniel Egnéus)
- Best for
- Comfort, friendship and giving something precious away
- Age
- 4-8
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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.