The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head: questions to ask and activities to try
When her best friend moves away, Isabel decides she doesn't need anyone else. The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head is a poetic, hopeful story about loss, loneliness and new friendship.
What age is it for? The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head is best for ages 3–7. Good for: A best friend moving away, and making a new one.
The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head (Daisy Hirst)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- A best friend moving away, and making a new one
Read it gently, especially if a friend has moved away. Ask how Isabel feels, and what changes when she meets someone new.
What it helps with
- A friend moving away
- Anger and loneliness
- Opening up to new friends
- Imaginative play
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.
- “Who was Isabel’s best friend?”
- “What happened to Simon?”
- “How did Isabel feel?”
- “Who did she meet?”
- “How did she make a new friend?”
- “What could you do if a friend moved away?”
5-minute activities to try together
Friend letter
Draw a picture or write a note for a friend who lives far away.
Box play
Find a big box and invent a game for two, like Isabel and her new friend.
Free printables: The Girl with the Parrot on Her Head 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
On Sudden Hill (Linda Sarah and Benji Davies)
- Best for
- Jealousy, and letting someone new join in
- Age
- 3-7
Hello, Friend! (Rebecca Cobb)
- Best for
- Making friends, and noticing what the other person wants
- Age
- 3-6
Lost and Found (Oliver Jeffers)
- Best for
- Loneliness, and the friendships we don't expect
- 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.