Talking about kindness with Pip
Pip helps with a small lantern and a willing heart. Her stories offer a starting point for talking about kindness with young children, without needing a big lesson.
Start with what happens in the story
Share the book first and enjoy its pictures. Afterwards, choose one moment your child remembers. In The Little Lantern Keeper, Pip begins with a light she thinks is too small. You could ask, “What could a little light help us see?” or “Who might need a friend?”
Listen before offering help
In The Sleepy Firefly, a tired visitor explains that her family is across the pond. Pause at this moment and ask, “What is the firefly telling Pip?” Then wonder together: “What could Pip do next?” Accept different ideas rather than searching for a single correct answer.
Bring kindness into a small everyday moment
Think together about a manageable action: making room beside you, helping to find a lost toy or asking whether someone would like company. A grown-up can model the words, “Would you like some help?” Kindness can include listening when someone says no.
Try a little lantern activity
Print the Pip colouring page. While colouring, invite your child to imagine who might share the lantern’s glow. They could draw another friend or tell you about someone they would like to sit beside. If they only want to colour, that is fine too.
For nurseries and library storytime
Offer a shared question and give children room to point, speak or simply listen. Avoid asking them to share personal worries in front of a group. Our free storytime guide gives you an activity to use alongside the books. Adults can contact the author about a visit or review copy, subject to availability.