If memory serves the Choo Choo bug bit both my daughters around age two. Our household has seen its fair share of train tracks through rooms and cities built (then tumbled down). While I’m aware of the Thomas the Train empire, I wanted to share other favorite train books you can enjoy with the littles. I’ve found building and reading are great indoor activities when the summer heat is simply too much.
Freight Train by Donald Crews
A great board book for introducing colors to your youngest locomotive fan.
1, 2, 3 to the Zoo by Eric Carle
Another fun board book for toddlers. Introduces simple counting and (as always) Eric Carle’s illustrations light up the pages.
And the Train Goes… by William Bee
CHUFF-CHUFF, CHUFFERTY-CHUFF…PUFF-PUFF, PUFFERY-PUFF. This delightful book has my children poring over its illustrations. Bonus: the text gives Mom room for fun voice inflection.
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
A classic tale of perseverance, The Little Engine has been inspiring children and adults since the 1930s. There’s a reason it’s held up so well. True story, I once hid this book for a couple of days after having read it every night for over a month straight (blame toddler obsession).
Locomotive by Brian Floca
I have a copy stashed for my oldest’s next birthday. The book starts with these words, “Here is a road made for crossing the country, a new road of rails made for people to ride.”
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Skip the movie, stick with the book. A magical read worth enjoying throughout the year.
Train Adventures
One cannot post about trains without mentioning these activities for DFW families (and visitors).
The Museum of the American Railroad
The Museum closed its location in Fair Park to relocate its collections and operations to Frisco. Although the new facility is still under construction, summer walking tours are taking place Thursday and Saturday at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. from June 9 to September 3. Visit their website for more information.
Grapevine Vintage Railroad
During the summer the Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers the Fun Train one hour excursion, departing Grapevine on Fridays at 10 a.m. during the months of June and July. Currently the Fun Train is known as the T-Rex Express, which means kids have the opportunity to play interactive games and activities related to dinosaurs. There will also be a special “Back to School” Fun Train on August 12th.
The Interurban Railway Museum
Located in Plano, this museum helps visitors of all ages learn about the history of the Texas Electric Railway and the science behind how it worked. Every Friday at 10:30 a.m. the museum holds story time for toddlers and preschool-aged children.
The Trains at NorthPark
Called “the most elaborate miniature toy trains exhibit in Texas” this display goes up in November for the holiday season. Ticket proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas, a home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill or injured children.
Does your family have a favorite train book or place to see trains in action?
Please share below, I’d love to see your recommendations.
