The Little Engine That Could
by Watty Piper
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This classic story first published in 1930, is still one of the best selling children's books of all time. It's often one of the first books added to a baby's bookshelf and a popular baby shower gift. This book's  messages are timeless.... believe in yourself... keep trying.
While there have been a number of different versions of the illustrations, the story has remained the same with each new publication. Your child will not only relate all the toys the train carries, but also to the problem and ensuing struggles the train encounters. Before the story is over both you and your child will be cheering for this little train's success.

How To

Read the  book to your child two to three times (if not more) over the course of a week. It's okay to read the book multiple times a day... we actually encourage it! Try to keep the days as close to one another as possible to ensure the most successful outcome.

It’s not just about reading the selected book numerous times. You should try to follow-up each reading with one of the activities provided on this page and/or the additional resources files.

​It’s just that simple!
  • A Great Story
  • Multiple Readings
  • Follow-Up Activities​
In short, by becoming comfortable with a book and its concepts, your child becomes comfortable with reading and learning. There’s a confidence that comes with familiarity and that’s what we all want in the end… a confident learner.

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Checking for Understanding

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Ask these questions as you read or after each reading. Some of the questions are open-ended which can lead to valuable discussions. Take the time to listen and respect your child’s point of view.

  1. The train carrying toys was a happy train.   How do we know this?
  2. What number is on the first car of the happy train?
  3. List all the toy animals that were on the train.
  4. What were your three favorite toys on the train?
  5. What does it mean when the author says that the train stopped with a jerk?
  6. The shiny new engine was a passenger engine. What does a passenger engine carry?
  7. Why did the Little Blue Engine decide to help?
  8. What did the Little Blue Engine say to help her get over the mountain?
  9. How could you use this chant to help you with something you do?

Additional Resources

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​Additional Resources Bundle  $4.00
 This bundle includes flashcards, a shared writing activity, a story elements  learning page and ideas for extending the learning beyond your home. ​It's just a quick download and you're ready to use it with your child.
​Click HERE to add this title's files to your cart.
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Membership

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Worried that you might miss a great title?
Have all the great Read it Again resources delivered straight to your inbox each week.
Consider becoming a member!  

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12 Month Membership - 2 titles per month - does not include book -  $81.60   
(15% savings over per title purchase) Click HERE!

 
​Art 

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Make an Engine and Tracks 
Go to Parents Magazine and check out the easy instructions for making this train engine and tracks. Here's my idea for customizing this craft...challenge your child to create additional train cars that resemble those in the story. Maybe even include faces on the train cars or add toys similar to those in the story. 
Sure you can go out and buy a train set, but isn't it  so much more empowering for your child to build one for herself?

Cooking Together

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Create a Train Cake
This special cake creation was found within the Parenting Magazine website.
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The complete instructions are found on the site, just click the link above.  Consider making this a joint effort by including your child in the shopping for all the special treats needed to make this train truly come to life.
Another idea would be to use engine colors similar to those found within the pages of the book.
"Children are made readers on the laps of their parents." — Emilie Buchwald
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