When children tinker, they are learning about the properties of materials and the capabilities of tools. They are developing their fine motor skills as well. Tinkering often leads to making something, and it is absolutely the foundation to more complex making, technology, and engineering.   These engaging picture books will inspire kids to be creative, tinker and explore the materials around them.

Clink

Written by Kelly Dipucchio

Illustrated by Matthew Myers

The topic of tinkering is explored with an outdated robot in a shop who dreams about finding a home.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #acceptance

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Boy + Bot

Written by Ame Dyckman

Illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

The topic of tinkering is explored through the friendship between a boy and his robot.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity

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Gus’s Garage

Written and Illustrated by Leo Timmers

The topic of tinkering is explored when Gus is able to use his odds and ends to fix his friends’ problems.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #helpfulness

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Elephant Island

Written and Illustrated by Leo Timmers

The topic of tinkering is explored when Arnold is stranded on a small rock and uses the resources around him to expand his island.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #helpfulness

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Have Fun Molly Lou Melon

Written by Patty Lovell

Illustrated by David Catrow

The topic of tinkering is explored when Molly Lou uses the resources around her to create her own toys.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #helpfulness

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The Tin Forest

Written by Helen Ward

Illustrated by Wayne Anderson

The topic of tinkering is explored when an old man dreams of living in a lively place.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #hope

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Franky

Written and Illustrated by Leo Timmers

The topic of tinkering is explored when Franky sets off to prove that robots come from outer space.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #persistence #wonder

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Spare Parts

Written and Illustrated by Rebecca and Ed Emberley

The topic of tinkering is explored when two robots made of spare parts meet.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #helpfulness

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The Thingity-Jig

Written by Kathleen Doherty

Illustrated by Kristyna Litten

The topic of tinkering is explored when a curious bear discovers gadgets and parts in People Town.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity #curiosity #friendliness

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Let’s Make Faces

Written and Illustrated by Hanoch Piven

The topic of tinkering is explored with making faces with everyday objects.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity

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Playing With Collage

Written and Illustrated by Jeannie Baker

The topic of tinkering is explored through an inspirational book on how to create art with the objects around you.

Teachable Moments: #tinkering #imagination #creativity

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