The Giving Tree: questions to ask and activities to try
A tree gives a boy everything she has, all his life. The Giving Tree is a classic fable that sparks big conversations about giving and love.
What age is it for? The Giving Tree is best for ages 4–10. Good for: Giving, taking and love over a lifetime.
The Giving Tree (Shel Silverstein)
- Age
- 4-10
- Best for
- Giving, taking and love over a lifetime
Read it and ask your child whether the boy was fair. There's no single right answer, which is what makes it great for talking.
What it helps with
- Giving and taking
- Love and gratitude
- Growing older
- Discussing fairness
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 the tree give the boy?”
- “What did the boy give the tree?”
- “Was it fair?”
- “How did the tree feel?”
- “Is it good to give everything?”
- “What could the boy have done?”
5-minute activities to try together
Thank-you tree
Draw a tree with a leaf for each person who gives to you.
Give back
Do something kind for someone who always gives to you.
Free printables: The Giving Tree 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 Velveteen Rabbit (Margery Williams and Sarah Massini)
- Best for
- Being loved, and what makes something Real
- Age
- 3-7
The Tree (Neal Layton)
- Best for
- Sharing the world with wildlife
- Age
- 3-7
The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)
- Best for
- Love, friendship and seeing what really matters
- Age
- 7-10
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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.