If you’ve ever read the same bedtime story four nights in a row and your child still shouts,
“Again!” You know how powerful a good book can be.
And here’s a little secret: you don’t have to stop when you turn the last page. One picture book
can open the door to hours of make-believe, without a screen or fancy craft kits.
In our house, that book is The Many Adventures of Hans — about a scruffy little teckel dog Hans
who follows his nose into the forest and makes friends (and a little mischief) along the way. But
you can use these ideas with any favorite story your child loves.
- What Happens Next?
Stop mid-page and ask: What do you think will happen now?
When Hans spots something moving in the bushes, is it a squirrel? A lost kitten? A talking frog?
Let your child’s ideas lead the way. - Draw a New Friend
Break out the crayons and invite your child to imagine a new character for the story. Give them
a name, a favorite snack, and a special skill, maybe they’re an owl who tells jokes, or a turtle
who loves to race. - Change the Place
What if Hans wandered into a beach, a snowy hill, or Grandma’s garden instead of the forest?
Talk about what new adventures he might have there. - Tell It Backwards
Retell the story starting from the end and working your way back. Let it get silly — maybe Hans
starts the day in bed and ends up having tea with a squirrel before heading into the woods. - Hans’ Diary
Pretend Hans is writing a diary entry about his big day. You write their words, and they draw
the pictures. Then read it back together as if it were a brand-new story.
Why This Works
These quick activities help kids:
- Build vocabulary and storytelling skills
- Boost creativity and imagination
- Practice empathy by thinking about what characters feel
- And best of all? They’re simple, fun, and don’t require a single download or app.
If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, animal-filled story to try this with, The Many Adventures of
Hans is a great place to start. It’s perfect for preschoolers, early readers, and any family that
loves a good dog story at bedtime.
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