Toys

Stage a Puppet Show

There are all kinds of puppets: marionettes on strings, hand puppets that fit like a glove, and tiny finger puppets. They can be made with so many things: paper plates, index cards, straws and yarn, and even old socks! Puppets have been around for ages throughout the world. Read on to learn more about the world of puppets and how to make your own.

Princess Me

By Karma Wilson; Illustrated by Christa Unzer

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A little girl imagines being a princess, with her stuffed animals serving as royal subjects. Make way! Make way! Here comes the princess of the land. She's sweet and kind. She's oh-so-grand. And just who is she, this lovely Princess Me? Come inside this book to see! A child's bedroom is transformed into a magical kingdom in this bright, lively book. JE Fic Wil Suggested for ages 3-5.
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Shark vs. Train, by Chris Barton and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld

Shark vs. Train

The unlikeliest foes of all time are put to a series of tests. One is a fearsome predator, the other a powerful example of human innovation. Contests, races, and video games are all necessary when trying to figure out who is better. It's teeth vs. wheels. It's beast vs. machine! It’s Shark vs. Train!
 
What starts as two boys’ simple search through a toy box spirals into the possibilities of pitting these very different opponents against each other and predicting what might happen. Now I know what you are thinking: there are a million differences between a shark and a train, and that is part of the fun. This book is the extreme equivalent of comparing apples to oranges.

Robot Zot

By By Jon Scieszka and illustrated by David Shannon

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On a mission to conquer planet Earth, tiny but fearless Robot Zot and his mechanical sidekick leave a path of destruction as they battle kitchen appliances. JE Fic Sci
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Knuffle Bunny : A Cautionary Tale

By Mo Willems

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After Trixie and daddy leave the laundromat, something very important turns up missing. Suggested for ages 3-7.
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Old-Time Toys

By Bobbie Kalman

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Old-Time Toys shows young readers the wonders of 19th century playthings using fascinating photographs from leading toy museums around the country. A history of toymakers in North America is featured along with such unusual and familiar toy

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The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

By Kate DiCamillo

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Edward Tulane, a cold-hearted and proud toy rabbit, loves only himself until he is separated from the little girl who adores him. He travels across the country, acquiring new owners and listening to their hopes, dreams, and histories.

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Hands-on Colonial Crafts

Chances are if you are studying colonial times, your teacher will assign a hands-on project. You could make a model of the Jamestown Fort or a copy of the Declaration of Independence-but why not try a craft that the colonists themselves would have done?

Every colonial family except for the very rich had to be able to make their own soap, candles, furniture, cloth, baskets, toys, and musical instruments. Below is one practical craft to try. Scroll down and check our lists of books and Web sites for more ideas.