The Train Ride: questions to ask and activities to try
What shall I see? What shall I see? The Train Ride is a rhythmic read-aloud journey through the countryside, with someone special waiting at the end.
What age is it for? The Train Ride is best for ages 1–5. Good for: A rhythmic journey, and spotting things out of the window.
The Train Ride (June Crebbin and Stephen Lambert)
- Age
- 1-5
- Best for
- A rhythmic journey, and spotting things out of the window
Read it in a train rhythm, faster and slower. On your next journey by train, bus or car, play “What shall I see?” out of the window.
What it helps with
- Rhythm and repetition
- Spotting things on journeys
- Countryside animals and places
- Looking forward to seeing someone
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Where were they going?”
- “What did the girl see from the window?”
- “Which animals did you spot?”
- “Who was waiting at the end?”
- “What would you see from a train?”
- “Who would you like to visit?”
5-minute activities to try together
Window spotting
On your next journey, take turns saying “What shall I see?” and naming what you spot.
Chair train
Line up chairs as a train and take a pretend journey, calling out what you see.
Free printables: The Train Ride worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
Down by the Station (Jess Stockham)
- Best for
- Singing a favourite rhyme and spotting vehicles
- Age
- 0-4
We're Going on a Picnic! (Pat Hutchins)
- Best for
- Spotting what the characters don't notice
- Age
- 2-5
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? (Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle)
- Best for
- Colours, animals and joining in with repeated words
- Age
- 0-4
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.