The Little Engine That Could: Scavenger Hunt
The Little Engine That Could Series
2004
illustrations by
What’s inside...
The Little Engine That Could: Scavenger Hunt is a children's book about the Little Blue Engine who embarks on a scavenger hunt to find missing items for the town fair. The engine faces challenges but learns about perseverance, determination, problem-solving, and teamwork. The book features colorful illustrations and an engaging storyline. Additionally, the activity workbook 'I Can Count!' features the Little Blue Engine teaching preschoolers and kindergarteners how to count and write numbers through fun activities and reward stickers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-5
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the Little Engine learned during the scavenger hunt?
How did helping others make the Little Engine feel?
Can you think of a time when you worked hard to achieve something? How did you feel?
What would you do if you were on a scavenger hunt and found a friend who needed help?
Why is it important to believe in yourself, like the Little Engine did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their personal experiences that relate to the story’s themes, fostering a deeper connection.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and helping others, relating these themes to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to highlight the emotions in the story, helping children understand the feelings of the characters.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at different points in the story to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
After reading, consider planning a small scavenger hunt at home to bring the book's theme to life in a fun and interactive way.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist engine faces numerous challenges during the scavenger hunt but continues to push forward, showcasing determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying in the face of challenges, whether completing a difficult puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the scavenger hunt, the little engine must solve puzzles and find innovative ways to collect items, demonstrating critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and develop solutions when they encounter obstacles, such as resolving conflicts with friends or figuring out a math problem.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The engine collaborates with other characters to complete the scavenger hunt, highlighting the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperation and how collective efforts can achieve greater results, applicable in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Joy of Exploration
Explanation: The scavenger hunt takes the little engine to various new places, instilling a sense of adventure and curiosity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore new subjects and areas of interest, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Respect for Others
Explanation: The little engine shows consideration for other participants by playing fairly, teaching respect.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of respecting others' feelings and rights, crucial for harmonious interactions at school and at home.