Recently on the PUBYAC Listserv there was a great discussion about a storytime focusing on tools, since Bob the Builder is such a popular TV show with preschoolers. Be sure to include the song Johnny Works With One Hammer – if you don’t already know it, look here. Another good one is Bumping Up and Down in My Little Red Wagon. For a craft project, try some of these ideas. You can also put out blocks and let the kids “build” things.
Shulman, Lisa. OLD MACDONALD HAD A WOODSHOP. Old MacDonald is a sheep who has several common tools in her workshop, including a saw, drill, hammer, and more. Written in the pattern of the popular song, so get the audience to sing along.
Boelts, Maribeth. LITTLE BUNNY’S COOL TOOL SET. When Little Bunny brings his new tool belt to school for Show and Tell, he has a difficult time sharing his new toys.
Neitzel, Shirley. THE HOUSE I’LL BUILD FOR THE WRENS. A cumulative story with rebus pictures, a little girl uses tools to build a birdhouse.
Singer, Marilyn. LET’S BUILD A CLUBHOUSE. Packed with information on tools and building, you can read just the rhyming story part of this book at storytime.
Nevius, Carol. BUILDING WITH DAD. Father and son watch a new school being built.
Rockwell, Anne. THE TOOLBOX. A very easy and brief book on tools.
Barton, Byron. BUILDING A HOUSE. Showing how a house is built, from the foundation, to the electrical and plumbing, to the finishing paint, this is very simple. The diverse group of construction workers includes women.