Oral Language

Talk about the colorful illustration on the cover of the book. Tell your child that the name of the book is Tugboat and that the book will be about the many jobs of a tugboat. Talk about any experiences your child may have had with boats, like riding on a boat or watching boats from the shoreline.

Oral Language

As you read each page, take time to talk about the details in the beautiful illustrations. Involve your toddler as you read. For example:

“The tugboat is pulling a heavy barge. Show me how you pull your wagon.
The tugboat is pushing the great big ocean liner. Can you show me how you push your big truck?
Tugboats pull tall ships. Make yourself as tall as you can!”

Oral Language

When your child takes a bath, provide objects that float and sink. Make connections to the floating tugboat.

Learn more about important pre-reading milestones for toddlers 12 to 17 months. Or, Find more recommended children’s books for your 1-year-old.