Not all kids like to sit still and listen to a story.
However, "My First Toolbox," by Jessie Ford, might be the book that grabs them.
"My First Toolbox" is a one-through-five counting book that begins with "1 board" and ends with "5 cuts." Better yet, the book includes heavy cardboard tools that the child can actually use.
On the first page, kids slide a pretend tape measure back and forth. Next, they punch out a wrench to tighten two nuts. After that, they insert the tip of a screwdriver into the shallow tops of three screws.
My favorite tool (yes, I did have fun playing with everything!) is the hammer. Once I realized I also had to punch out the four nails, it was just a matter of sliding them into the sides of the page. And yes, pounding them was kind of fun.
ADVERTISEMENT
The book ends with a jagged cardboard saw that can be inserted into five pre-made cuts.
So here's the big question... How will this book stand up to heavy-duty use from a three-year-old?
Well, the pages themselves are extremely thick, making the book a challenge to carry. The tools are quite a bit thinner. They aren't flimsy, but with rough play, they could easily bend in half.
On the plus side, the punch-out tools give the challenge of a puzzle when they have to be placed back in the page.
I also like how the illustrations extend the opportunities for learning and conversation. For example, the page with the board and tape measure shows a picture of a pencil, a sharpener, and shavings.
"My First Toolbox" is not recommended for kids under three years old. But for those who are ready, this is a unique mix of toy and book.
"My First Toolbox," by Jessie Ford. Abrams/Appleseed, 2018.
