Tiddler: questions to ask and activities to try
Tiddler explains why he's late with bigger and bigger stories, until one day no one believes him. A light, funny way to talk about the difference between imagining and telling the truth.
What age is it for? Tiddler is best for ages 3–6. Good for: Tall tales, telling the truth, and imagination.
Tiddler (Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler)
- Age
- 3-6
- Best for
- Tall tales, telling the truth, and imagination
Imagination is something to celebrate, so don't make this a book about lying. Ask when a made-up story is fun and when it could cause a problem, and enjoy Tiddler's stories together.
Why I like this one
Tiddler is a gentle way into the difference between telling a story and telling a fib. Children love his tall tales, and so do I, which is exactly why it's useful. Imagination isn't the problem here; being believed when it matters is.
I'd avoid turning it into a lecture about lying. Instead, try making up a Tiddler-style excuse together, as silly as you like, then ask, “How would anyone know when Tiddler was telling the truth?”
Apoorva, Growing Wise
What it helps with
- Telling the truth
- Imagination and storytelling
- When made-up stories cause trouble
- Being trusted
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.
- “When is a made-up story fun, and when could it cause a problem?”
- “Why did Tiddler tell such big stories?”
- “What happened when Tiddler really was lost?”
- “How did his story help him get home?”
- “Have you ever told a story that wasn't true?”
- “What makes someone trust you?”
5-minute activities to try together
Silly story, true story
Take turns telling a silly made-up story, then a true one about today.
Story chain
Take turns adding one sentence to a made-up story, and agree at the start that it's pretend.
Free printables: Tiddler 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 Rabbit Listened (Cori Doerrfeld)
- Best for
- Sitting with difficult feelings
- Age
- 4-8
The Paper Dolls (Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cobb)
- Best for
- Loss, grief and holding on to happy memories
- Age
- 3-6
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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.