This Is Not My Hat: questions to ask and activities to try
A tiny fish has taken a hat that isn’t his, and he’s sure nobody will find out. This Is Not My Hat is a funny Jon Klassen book about taking what isn’t yours, and reading what the pictures tell you.
What age is it for? This Is Not My Hat is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Taking what isn't yours, and reading between the lines.
This Is Not My Hat (Jon Klassen)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Taking what isn't yours, and reading between the lines
Read the words slowly, and let your child spot what the pictures show behind the little fish. Talk about whether he was right to think he’d get away with it.
What it helps with
- Taking things that aren’t yours
- Owning up
- Reading the pictures, not just the words
- Talking about consequences
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.
- “Whose hat was it really?”
- “Why did the little fish think he would get away with it?”
- “What did the pictures show that the words didn’t?”
- “What do you think happened at the end?”
- “What should you do if you take something that isn’t yours?”
- “How would you feel if someone took your favourite thing?”
5-minute activities to try together
Picture detectives
Read the book again with no words, just telling the story from what you see in the pictures.
Put it back
Act out the story with toys, but change it so the little fish gives the hat back. How does the ending change?
Free printables: This Is Not My Hat 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
I Want My Hat Back (Jon Klassen)
- Best for
- Reading between the lines, and a very funny ending
- Age
- 3-7
The Dark (Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen)
- Best for
- Being afraid of the dark, and meeting it
- Age
- 3-7
The Tale of Peter Rabbit (Beatrix Potter)
- Best for
- Disobedience, danger and getting home safe
- Age
- 3-7
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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.