Ep 4. If You Gave a Mouse a Cookie

Reading Rainbow was a children's television show that aired from 1983 to 2006. Each episode focused on a different book and encouraged children to read and explore their imaginations. Volume 1 of season 7, episode 4, titled "If You Gave a Mouse a Cookie," follows the beloved classic children's book of the same name written by Laura Numeroff and illustrated by Felicia Bond.

The episode begins with host LeVar Burton sitting in a cozy living room surrounded by books. He introduces the book "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" and explains that it's a story about cause and effect, where one thing leads to another. To bring the story to life, Burton takes viewers on a field trip to a pet store where they meet a real mouse.

Back in the studio, Burton reads the book aloud, pointing out the illustrations and emphasizing the repetition in the story. He pauses to ask questions and encourage viewers to predict what will happen next. As the story progresses, Burton emphasizes the importance of kindness and how small actions can lead to big consequences.

After the book is finished, Burton invites young viewers to create their own cause and effect stories. He provides a simple template for them to follow and encourages them to draw their own illustrations. The episode concludes with Burton reading a few of the viewer's stories and highlighting the creativity and imagination of young minds.

"If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" is a classic children's book that has been loved by generations of readers. The Reading Rainbow episode provides a fun and interactive way for children to explore the story and make connections to their own lives. The combination of a real mouse, engaging field trips, and hands-on activities make this an exciting and educational episode for young viewers.