The Happy Hedgerow: questions to ask and activities to try
When the farmer pulls up a hedgerow, Old Oak has to look after all the fleeing birds. The Happy Hedgerow is a gentle story about hedgerows, wildlife and caring for the countryside.
What age is it for? The Happy Hedgerow is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Hedgerows, wildlife and caring for the countryside.
The Happy Hedgerow (Elena Mannion and Erin Brown)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Hedgerows, wildlife and caring for the countryside
Read it, then go and look at a real hedge together. Count the creatures and plants you can find living there.
What it helps with
- Why hedgerows matter for wildlife
- Caring for the countryside
- Homes for birds and animals
- Hope and putting things right
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 lived in the hedgerow?”
- “What did the farmer do?”
- “What happened to the birds?”
- “What happened to the soil?”
- “How was hope returned?”
- “What lives in hedges near us?”
5-minute activities to try together
Hedge hunt
Look closely at a hedge and spot birds, insects, berries and leaves.
Plant something
Plant a native seed or shrub to make a little home for wildlife.
Free printables: The Happy Hedgerow 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
The Tree (Neal Layton)
- Best for
- Sharing the world with wildlife
- Age
- 3-7
Trees (Lemniscates)
- Best for
- Noticing trees through the seasons
- Age
- 3-7
A First Book of Nature (Nicola Davies and Mark Hearld)
- Best for
- A first taste of nature, season by season
- Age
- 3-8
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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.