The Invisible String: questions to ask and activities to try
Two children learn they're connected to everyone they love by an invisible string, however far apart they are. The Invisible String gives a child something to hold on to when you're not in the room.
What age is it for? The Invisible String is best for ages 4–7. Good for: Being apart at drop-off, a sleepover or the start of school.
The Invisible String (Patrice Karst)
- Age
- 4-7
- Best for
- Being apart at drop-off, a sleepover or the start of school
We recommend it for everyday separation: drop-off, sleepovers, the start of school. It gives you a shared phrase to use at the door. It's often suggested for bereavement too, but grief needs more than a book.
What it helps with
- Separation at drop-off or bedtime
- Missing someone who is away
- Feeling connected when apart
- Starting school or nursery
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 would be at the other end of your invisible string?”
- “How can a string be invisible but still there?”
- “When do you most need to think about your string?”
- “Who do you think is thinking of you right now?”
- “Can a string reach all the way across the world?”
- “What could you do when you miss someone?”
5-minute activities to try together
Name your string
At the door, name who is at the other end of their string today.
Draw the strings
Draw your child in the middle of a page with strings going out to everyone they love, near and far.
Free printables: The Invisible String 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 Gruffalo (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Feeling scared, and using your wits
- Age
- 3-6
Stick Man (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Best for
- Missing home or family, and being away from people you love
- Age
- 3-6
The Huge Bag of Worries (Virginia Ironside)
- Best for
- Talking about worries
- Age
- 5-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 1 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.