If I Built a House
By Chris Van Dusen
What's special about this book?
Imagine a house that has everything you could dream of—a racetrack, a flying room, and even a gigantic slide! In If I Built a House, Jack’s boundless imagination takes center stage, captivating kids with his whimsical designs while inspiring parents and educators to encourage creative thinking and innovation. With Chris Van Dusen's vibrant illustrations and delightful rhymes, this book is a joyful celebration of creativity that sparks conversations about dreams and possibilities.
Read-aloud tips
To bring the world of If I Built a House to life, start by setting up a cozy reading nook with pillows and blankets, creating an inviting environment where imaginations can soar. Use an animated and playful voice to match the excitement of Jack's inventive ideas, emphasizing the rhythm of the rhyme to engage your child's attention. Encourage interaction by asking your child to suggest their own wild ideas for rooms as you read, turning the story into a collaborative adventure that fosters creative thinking.
Discussion questions
- What are some of the coolest features Jack includes in his dream house?
- If you could design your own room, what fun things would you want to include?
- How do you think Jack feels when he imagines his perfect house, and what would be the most exciting part for you?
Fun activities
After reading If I Built a House, gather some paper, crayons, or markers and invite your child to design their own dream house. Encourage them to think about unique features they would want, just like Jack, and draw or write about them. This activity not only reinforces creativity and planning skills but also allows children to express their individuality and preferences. Additionally, you could take it a step further by crafting a small model of their dream room using items from around the house, promoting imaginative play and hands-on learning.