Freight Train All Aboard, families! Chug along the tracks while reading Freight Train by Donald Crews with your child. The relaxing rhythm of this simple story is perfect to read when winding down for nap or bedtime. Take your child’s finger and have them follow the train as it moves along the track. Point out the colors and ask your child to point them out too. For older toddlers, challenge them to learn the names of the train cars. It is easier for children to add new words to their vocabulary when they are motivated by the interesting images in their storybooks.

The Little Engine that Could Read this classic by Watty Piper with your child and cheer on the little blue choo-choo as he puffs and huffs his way up and over the mountain while repeating the mantra “I think I can, I think I can.” The next time your child is frustrated with trying to do something, remind them of the Little Engine and encourage them to try again. Having a reference of others succeeding after trying hard–and harder could increase their tolerance to try a little harder too!