We're Going to Build a Dam: questions to ask and activities to try
Two friends try to build a dam where a stream meets the sea. We're Going to Build a Dam is a lovely story about teamwork, problem solving and playing outdoors.
What age is it for? We're Going to Build a Dam is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Teamwork and play by the water.
We're Going to Build a Dam (Gillian McClure)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Teamwork and play by the water
Read it before a trip to the beach or a stream. Talk about what the boys tried, and what you'd use to build a dam.
What it helps with
- Working together on a project
- Outdoor and water play
- Trying, failing and trying again
- Noticing what the water does
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 did the boys go?”
- “What did they want to build?”
- “What did they use?”
- “What was the dog doing?”
- “Did the dam work?”
- “What would you build at the beach?”
5-minute activities to try together
Mini dam
Build a little dam in a sandpit, tray or puddle with stones and sticks.
Team challenge
Build something together, like a tower, where each person adds one piece in turn.
Free printables: We're Going to Build a Dam 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.
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If your child liked this, try
The Gigantic Turnip (Aleksei Tolstoy and Niamh Sharkey)
- Best for
- Teamwork, and how everyone can help
- Age
- 2-6
Errol's Garden (Gillian Hibbs)
- Best for
- Gardening, community, and asking for help with a big idea
- Age
- 3-7
Splash, Anna Hibiscus! (Atinuke and Lauren Tobia)
- Best for
- Wanting someone to play with you
- Age
- 3-7
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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.