The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck: questions to ask and activities to try
Jemima Puddle-Duck trusts a charming gentleman with sandy whiskers who offers her a place for her nest. The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck is Beatrix Potter’s classic about trusting strangers, and the people who look out for you.
What age is it for? The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Trusting strangers, and listening to people who look out for you.
The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck (Beatrix Potter)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Trusting strangers, and listening to people who look out for you
Pause when the gentleman appears and ask your child what they notice about him. Talk gently about trusting people we don’t know.
What it helps with
- Talking about strangers
- Noticing warning signs
- Listening to people who care for you
- Classic stories and rich words
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.
- “Why did Jemima want to find her own nest?”
- “Who did she meet in the woods?”
- “What clues showed the gentleman wasn’t kind?”
- “Why did Jemima trust him?”
- “How did Kep help?”
- “Who could you tell if someone made you feel unsure?”
5-minute activities to try together
Spot the clues
Go back through the book and spot all the clues that the gentleman was really a fox.
Safe people
Draw a hand and write or draw one safe grown-up on each finger who your child can talk to.
Free printables: The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck 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 Tale of Peter Rabbit (Beatrix Potter)
- Best for
- Disobedience, danger and getting home safe
- Age
- 3-7
This Is Not My Hat (Jon Klassen)
- Best for
- Taking what isn't yours, and reading between the lines
- Age
- 3-7
The Tiger Who Came to Tea (Judith Kerr)
- Best for
- Coping calmly when plans change unexpectedly
- Age
- 2-6
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 16 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.