Imagine what Corduroy might put in his pocket. Cut a sheet of construction paper into the shape of a large pocket -- a square or rectangle works fine. (Adults should supervise use of scissors, supply craft scissors or cut the sheets of paper in advance for very young children.)
Apply glue or paste on one side of the pocket along three edges. Attach the pocket to another sheet of paper in a contrasting color. Let the pocket dry before decorating it.
Instruct children to cut or tear pictures of their favorite things from magazines. Ask children to share their pictures while the pocket decorations dry and then store the pictures in the pocket after show and tell.
This bingo game uses pictures instead of numbers and letters, so even non-readers can play. The winner is the first to cover one row vertically or horizontally. If using 3-inch-square cards, a diagonal win also is possible.
Make multiple color copies of illustrations from "A Pocket for Corduroy." From each illustration, cut several 1-inch-square details.
One complete set of all of the images chosen will become the tiles that the bingo caller uses. Mount these on sturdier paper for durability. Put all of these tiles into a bag or envelope to draw from during the game.
Make 4-inch-by-4-inch or 3-by-3 playing cards. The number of cards depends on the number of players you anticipate or the frequency of play. Glue one random 1-inch image into each box. Make each card unique. Use each image in different spots on multiple cards.
A caller draws tiles one at a time. Each player checks his card for that image; if he has it, he covers it with a button marker.
Practice sewing like Lisa does with sewing cards. This project helps build eye-hand coordination.
Make cards out of heavy cardboard so they will withstand repeated use. Cut cards into varied shapes. Use a single-hole punch to make holes around the edge of each shape; don't get holes too close to edges of cardboard. Laminate cards for even longer use.
Use colorful ribbon or yarn to weave in and out of the holes. Each string should be at least twice as long as needed. If the ends of the string fray, dip them in nontoxic glue or wax and let dry.
When Corduroy goes missing, Lisa tries to find him by writing a notice about a lost bear. Ask each child to write a "lost" card describing Corduroy. Begin with details such as fur color and clothing. Focus on what distinguishes him from other bears.
Invite children to bring in a favorite toy, each with its own description card. Provide starter ideas such as softness, hugability and likes. Display children's toys alongside their description cards.
For additional discussion, use examples of lost and found pet signs. Include a safety discussion on what a child should do if he is lost and what a search entails.