The Tortosaurus

It may help open a conversation about first-day nerves, wanting approval and noticing when another person is uncomfortable. The colourful dinosaur costume also offers an accessible starting point for discussing imagination and self-presentation.

Dot makes a stressful lie and later becomes angry before apologising. The social pressure is presented lightly within a friendship story, but children may want help distinguishing self-expression from changing someone else to gain attention.

When does trying something new feel playful, and when might it make someone uncomfortable? If Dot had spoken honestly earlier, would her friendship with Jude have developed differently?

Read it together before or during a school transition, pausing to ask what Dot and Monty might want at each stage. Afterwards, invite the child to name one way of being themselves.