The Pirate Tree: questions to ask and activities to try
The tree on the hill becomes a pirate ship, and Sam is the captain, until a new sailor arrives. The Pirate Tree is a warm story about imaginative play and making friends with someone new.
What age is it for? The Pirate Tree is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Making friends with someone new through play.
The Pirate Tree (Brigita Orel and Jennie Poh)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Making friends with someone new through play
Read it and pause when the new boy arrives. Ask how Sam might feel, and how they could play together. It's a lovely one for welcoming new children.
What it helps with
- Welcoming someone new
- Imaginative play outdoors
- Friendship across differences
- Sharing games
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 become?”
- “Who was the captain?”
- “Who arrived one day?”
- “How did Sam feel about him?”
- “What did they find together?”
- “How could you welcome someone new to play?”
5-minute activities to try together
Pirate tree
Find a tree or climbing frame and turn it into a pirate ship together.
Welcome words
Practise what to say to a new child at the park: “Do you want to play?”
Free printables: The Pirate 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 Night Pirates (Peter Harris and Deborah Allwright)
- Best for
- Adventure, bravery and girl pirates
- Age
- 3-7
On Sudden Hill (Linda Sarah and Benji Davies)
- Best for
- Jealousy, and letting someone new join in
- Age
- 3-7
The Name Jar (Yangsook Choi)
- Best for
- Starting somewhere new and wanting to fit in
- 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.