Many libraries found a way to do a program that is no cost – a Big Machines program done in collaboration with their local government agencies. You can arrange for your city or county public works department to bring big machines that are used in building, from garbage trucks to backhoes and tractors for the kids to see. Perhaps they can also demonstrate different building techniques, and then offer a Lego program where the kids can build things in teams. Of course, you can invite public works to your storytime, too, if you don’t want to do it as an “all ages” program. Aside for the Lego activity, another craft could be based on the Bob the Builder character.
Banks, Kate. NIGHT WORKER. Alex says goodnight as his father goes off to work as a nighttime construction worker.
Barton, Byron. MACHINES AT WORK. A general construction machinery book.
Barton, Byron. BUILDING A HOUSE. In a clear and simple way, Barton shows the various people needed to build a house, including a plumber, carpenter, electrician, roofer, mason, painter, and more!
Merriam, Eve. BAM BAM BAM Rhyming text with onomatopoeia describe the process of building a skyscraper.
Rockwell, Anne. THE TOOLBOX. A story about Dad’s tools on his workbench.
Shulman, Lisa. OLD MACDONALD HAD A WOODSHOP. A sheep builds a farm in this cumulative story.
Various. THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. Even toddlers know which house is built to last in this classic.
Also see the previous Building and Construction storytime ideas page from December 2000.