One of the CBCA Book Week 2026 shortlisted books I’m looking forward to reading with my students is Frogs Are Our Friends.
As soon as I saw the title, I knew it would lead to lots of conversations about frogs and their habitats. Young children are naturally curious about animals, and frogs always seem to spark plenty of questions.
One activity that would work really well after reading the book is a Frog-Friendly Garden design task.
What Makes a Frog-Friendly Garden?
After reading the story, I would start by asking students what frogs need to survive.
Students might suggest:
- Water
- Plants
- Shade
- Shelter
- Insects for food
- Safe places to hide
We could then discuss why each of these features is important and how people can help create environments where frogs can thrive.
I love activities that help students connect what they’ve read to the world around them, and this one naturally links literacy, science and environmental awareness.
Designing Our Own Frog Habitats
Students could then design their own frog-friendly gardens.
This is the kind of activity where every student’s work looks different. Some children will create realistic habitats, while others will design elaborate frog paradises complete with ponds, flowers and plenty of hiding spots.
As they work, students are thinking about what frogs need and applying what they’ve learned from the story and class discussions.
Creating a Classroom Display
These garden designs would make a fantastic classroom display.
I always enjoy seeing the different ideas students come up with, and the finished display gives them an opportunity to explain their thinking and share their learning with others.
It’s also a great way to keep the conversation going long after the book has been read.
Extending the Learning
Another activity that pairs nicely with Frogs Are Our Friends is exploring the frog life cycle.
Most students know that tadpoles become frogs, but they’re often fascinated by the changes that happen along the way. Sequencing and life cycle activities are a simple way to reinforce science concepts while building vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Activities for Frogs Are Our Friends
To support this Book Week 2026 title, I’ve created a companion resource that includes:
- Frog-Friendly Garden Design Activity
- Frog Life Cycle Activities
- Frog Research Pages
- Vocabulary Activities
- Comprehension Worksheets
- Writing Prompts
- Word Searches and Crossword
- Frog Craft Display Activities
The activities are designed for K–3 students and provide a range of ways to extend learning after reading the story.
Why This Activity Works for Book Week 2026
One of the reasons I like this activity is that it encourages students to move beyond simply recalling details from the story. They are applying their understanding, making connections to the natural world and thinking about how people can help protect animal habitats.
It also provides opportunities for discussion, creativity and cross-curricular learning, making it an ideal follow-up activity for Frogs Are Our Friends during Book Week 2026.
More Book Week 2026 Ideas
If you’re planning your Book Week 2026 program, I’ve got plenty of resources and activity ideas to help make the week engaging, meaningful, and easy to prepare.
Check out these related blog posts:
- Book Week Costume Ideas for Teachers (That Are Fun, Easy & Cheap!)
- Teaching the Difference Between Telling and Dobbing with Bob and Dob for Book Week 2026
And check out my Book Week resource collection, and each one includes ready-to-use resources, classroom activities, and practical teaching ideas that you can take straight into your classroom. Happy Book Week planning!
Freebie for Teachers
Want a quick activity to try today? Sign up for the newsletter to receive free Book Week printables, teaching ideas, and classroom resources delivered straight to your inbox.
