Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure!

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Child-adult relationships that are responsive and attentive—with lots of back and forth interactions—build a strong foundation in a child’s brain for all future learning and development. This is called “serve and return,” and it takes two to play!” – https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/5-steps-for-brain-building-serve-and-return/

 

Activity

Try to observe a “serve” from your child. Did she point at something or make a sound or facial expression? Then “return” the “serve” with an acknowledgement, hug, smile, etc. Try this a couple of times a day. When you return a “serve”, your child knows that their thoughts and feelings are understood.

Books Presented

Book cover for Tiny T. Rex and the Very Dark Dark by Jonathan Stutzman

Tiny T. Rex and the Very Dark Dark by Jonathan Stutzman

Tiny T. Rex and his friend Pointy are planning a campout in the backyard, but they are both worried that the dark will be altogether too dark, so they plan on bringing a night light with them–but when the night light does not work they bravely open their eyes and discover the stars above.
Book cover for The Keeper of the Stars by Jennifer Harris

Keeper of the Stars by Jennifer Harris

Every night after his mom reads him three stories, Milo, who misses spending time with his absent father, carefully slides out from under the covers (without waking his mom) and tiptoes to the open window to wait for the friendly comet that will take him far above the clouds to help the Keeper of Stars. At the end of a long day, there’s lots to clean up in the sky: balloons, stray feathers, and once, even a befuddled paraglider! Together, Milo and the Keeper of Stars wash and polish the stars (which would be easier if they weren’t so ticklish!). And sometimes the Keeper of Stars lets Milo play games with the baby stars (who are more than a bit unruly and have a tendency to get tangled up). When everything is tidy, Milo and the Keeper of Stars share a snack of cocoa and herring fish sandwiches and admire the night sky that’s brimming with a million bright twinkles. Then the comet pulls Milo all the way back to his bedroom, where he slides into bed, nuzzles under the blanket and, at last, closes his eyes. A timeless story about the power of love and imagination.
Book cover for Night Animals by Gianna Marino

Night Animals by Gianna Marino

Possum is hiding from the sounds in the night, and his fear sets off a chain reaction in the other night animals.
Book cover for A Happy Place by Britta Teckentrup

A Happy Place by Britta Teckentrup

Takes readers on a magical, moonlit adventure following a tiny star and invites all to dance with a host of animals. But is it all a dream?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Looking for Some Stars

Far, far, far,
We’re looking for some stars.
Far, far, far,
We’re looking for some stars.
We think that we will take a look underneath the ________ book.
Far, far, far,
We’re looking for some stars. 5,4,3,2,1!

Can You Shake Your Egg With Me?

(Tune: London Bridge)
Can you shake your egg with me?
Shake your egg along with me
It’s as easy as can be
Now put it on your tummy!
(head, knee, ear, etc.)

Source: Jbrary

Roly Poly

(Tune: “Frère Jacques”)
Roly poly, roly poly
Up, up, up
up, up, up
Roly roly poly
roly roly poly
down, down, down
down, down, down
Repeat with: out/in, fast/slow

Source: Jbrary

Shake My Sillies Out

I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta clap, clap, clap my crazies out…
I’ve gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out…
I’ve gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out…
I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out.

 

Crafts and Activities

Family observing the stars coloring page

Stargazing Coloring Page

 

 

Flashlight paper craft

Flashlight Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Ella's Night Lights by Lucy Fleming

Ella's Night Lights by Lucy Fleming

A light-loving magical girl with mothlike wings that are too delicate to be out in the sun collects glowing objects while flittering about at night, sharing them with others who need them most until the day her animal friends decide to return her kindness.
Book cover for My Thoughts Have Wings by Maggie Smith

My Thoughts Have Wings by Maggie Smith

At bedtime, when lights go out, sometimes thoughts stay on. Scary things and worries flutter and flap around. It’s so hard to sleep! But a little imagination (and a lot of love) can create a cozy nest for happy thoughts–and sweet dreams for little ones.
Book cover for Flashlight by Lizi Boyd

Flashlight by Lizi Boyd

In this story without words, a boy explores the woods after dark with a flashlight.
Book cover for Bowwow Powwow by Brenda J. Child

Bowwow Powwow by Brenda J. Child

When Uncle and Windy Girl attend a powwow, Windy watches the dancers and listens to the singers. She eats tasty food and joins family and friends around the campfire. Later, Windy falls asleep under the stars. Uncle’s stories inspire visions in her head: a bowwow powwow, where all the dancers are dogs. In these magical scenes, Windy sees veterans in a Grand Entry, and a visiting drum group, and traditional dancers, grass dancers, and jingle-dress dancers — all with telltale ears and paws and tails. All celebrating in song and dance. All attesting to the wonder of the powwow.

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover what’s hiding in your own backyard!

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Child-adult relationships that are responsive and attentive—with lots of back and forth interactions—build a strong foundation in a child’s brain for all future learning and development. This is called “serve and return,” and it takes two to play!” – https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/5-steps-for-brain-building-serve-and-return/

 

Activity

Try to observe a “serve” from your child. Did she point at something or make a sound or facial expression? Then “return” the “serve” with an acknowledgement, hug, smile, etc. Try this a couple of times a day. When you return a “serve”, your child knows that their thoughts and feelings are understood.

 

Books Presented

Book cover for And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner

And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner

From flip-flops and hide and seek to fireworks and ice-cream trucks, there is something for everyone in this bright and buoyant celebration of the summer season.
Book cover for The Door That Had Never Been Opened Before by Mrs. & Mr. MacLeod

The Door That Had Never Been Opened Before by Mrs. & Mr. MacLeod

The Grunions’ house had many doors. But there was one door, that had never been opened before! The door that had never been opened before was built closed shut, locked tight, and never opened for a reason. A reason that nobody knew. Geraldine opened every door she ever found. Geraldine opened every door and went everywhere and met everyone and did everything. Everything, except one thing. Geraldine had never opened the Door that had never been opened before…not yet!
Book cover for Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

Bert is certain he can ride his bike as well as Frank, but he is very wobbly! And even when they both try riding Frank’s bike it still goes very wrong! Will the best friends make it all the way down from the big hill? Of course! All they need is a little bit of confidence and trust in each other!
Book cover for The New Bicycle by Darcy Day Zoells

The New Bicycle by Darcy Day Zoells

Mari lives in a very normal house in a very normal neighborhood. One day, she gets a new bicycle. It’s bight, bold and brimming with possibilities! Mari sets off to see where her new bicycle will take her and her trip down the block becomes a fantastic adventure. During her journey, paving her own way, she meets new friends, transports precious cargo, and finds endless places to explore before returning home. An imaginative little road movie layered with meaning to ride along.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Wheels on the Bike

(tune: “The Wheels on the Bus”)
The wheels on the bike go round and round (roll hands over each other)
Round and round, round and round.
The wheels on the bike go round and round
All through the town.

Other Verses:
The pedals on the bike go up and down (move feet up and down)
The streamers on the bike go swish, swoosh, swish (move hands in a swishing motion)
The bell on the bike goes ding, ding, ding (pretend to ring a bell)
The basket on the bike holds all the things (make arms into a circle like a basket in front of you)
The handles on the bike go left and right (pretend hands on handlebar, steer left and right)….

Source: Jen in the Library

Mouse in the House

Little mouse, little mouse.
Are you in the _____ house?

Swimming

Swimming in the water cool and bright (pretend to swim)
I kick my feet with all my might (kick feet)
And when I’m tired I turn and float (spin and hold arms out)
Pretending that I’m a boat! (rock hands)
I like to hold my breath and dive (take a breath and bend down)
Swim beneath the water and count to five (count to five)
Wow! What a dive!

Source: Storytime Katie

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a child on a bike with a background of stars

Bicycle Coloring Page

 

 

Picture of a bicycle craft

Bicycle Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Ride Beside Me by Lucy Knisley

Ride Beside Me by Lucy Knisley

A mother and son hop on their bike for a ride through the neighborhood, joining friends and neighbors along the way.
Book cover for Bunnies on the Bus by Philip Ardagh

Bunnies on the Bus by Philip Ardagh

Bunnies are on the bus and causing all kinds of mayhem on the streets of Sunny Town.
Book cover for Between Two Windows by Keisha Morris

Between Two Windows by Keisha Morris

Kayla and Mateo enjoy passing drawings of dinosaurs to each other across the clothesline that runs between their apartment windows, but when the clothesline is taken down, the two children must find a new way to keep their story–and friendship going
Book cover for Taxi, Go! by Patricia Toht

Taxi, Go! by Patricia Toht

Today will be a busy day for Taxi! There are plenty of passengers to pick up, and they all need a ride–to a football game, a play, a business meeting, the airport, and more. Whizzing left, right, and through traffic, Taxi has to STOP for red lights and emergency vehicles. But after every stop, stop, stop, it’s Taxi…go, go, GO

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious plot, help your child to look for clues in the illustrations or text and then make a “who-dunnit” deduction before the final reveal at the end.

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Child-adult relationships that are responsive and attentive—with lots of back and forth interactions—build a strong foundation in a child’s brain for all future learning and development. This is called “serve and return,” and it takes two to play!” – https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/5-steps-for-brain-building-serve-and-return/

 

Activity

Try to observe a “serve” from your child. Did she point at something or make a sound or facial expression? Then “return” the “serve” with an acknowledgement, hug, smile, etc. Try this a couple of times a day. When you return a “serve”, your child knows that their thoughts and feelings are understood.

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Where Oliver Fits by Cale Atkinson

Where Oliver Fits by Cale Atkinson

Oliver has always dreamed about where he will fit. Will he be in the mane of a unicorn? The tentacle of a pirate squid? The helmet of an astronaut? When he finally goes in search of his perfect place, he finds that trying to fit in is a lot harder than he thought. But as with any puzzle, a little trial and error leads to a solution, and Oliver figures out exactly where he belongs.

Book cover for What About X?: An Alphabet Adventure by Anne Marie Houppert

What About X?: An Alphabet Adventure by Anne Marie Houppert

Ready to go on a camping trip with the Alphabet Academy? F packs fishing poles. J has juice boxes for everyone. T tackles a tent. But X can’t think of a thing to bring!

Book cover for Secret, Secret Agent Guy by Kira Bigwood

Secret, Secret Agent Guy by Kira Bigwood

When a 007-year-old embarks on a bedtime mission called Operation Lollipop, he’s prepared for every eventuality–except one.

Book cover for Hornswoggled!: A Wacky Words Whodunit by Josh Crute

Hornswoggled!: A Wacky Words Whodunit by Josh Crute

Deer wakes up to find one of his antlers is missing…and there’s a tennis racket in its place? One by one his friends also uncover that their important items from glasses to lucky boots have been swapped with silly, useless replacements like donuts and swim flippers. They’ve been hornswoggled! (Hornswoggled means tricked.) It’s pure poppycock! (Poppycock means nonsense.) Once they gather together to find out what happened, will they find the true thief or be outfoxed? Laugh along with a hilarious cast of animal characters searching for the mysterious trickster in this humorous whodunit bursting with exciting, wacky words that kids will love.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Very Last Puzzle Piece

Who has the very last puzzle piece? 
_______ has the very last puzzle piece!
Who me? 
Yes you! 
Couldn’t be! 
Then who? 
_______!

Source: Cooperative Summer Library Program

Where is Thumbkin?

Where is Thumbkin? 
Where is Thumbkin?
Here I am. Here I am.
How are you today, sir? 
Very well, I thank you,.
Run away, run away.

Verses: Where is pointer?
Where is tall man?
Where is ring man?
Where is pinky?

Source: Jbrary

The ABCs in 5 Different Tunes

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
London Bridge
Mary Had a Little Lamb
This Old Man
Head, shoulders Knees & Toes

Source: Jbrary

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a camping scene and asking if you can find things in the picture.

Search and Find

 

 

Puzzles made from painted craft sticks.

Craft Stick Puzzle

Additional Books

Book cover for The Thingamajig by Rilla Alexander

The Thingamajig by Rilla Alexander

 
A young elephant embarks on a whimsical quest to find various lost objects belonging to their animal neighbors, uncovering a mystery as snail, squirrel, and ladybugs reveal their missing items. Backmatter pages explain the around-the-world origins of each nonsense word appearing in the story.
Book cover for We're Gong on a Treasure Hunt by Kelly DiPucchio

We're Going on a Treasure Hunt by Kelly DiPucchio

 
In this twist on “We’re going on a bear hunt,” swashbuckling pirates on a quest for buried treasure brave wicked whales, giant squids, booming thunder, and spine-tingling ghosts, but quake at the sight of a small mouse.
Book cover for I Spy Ocean Animals by Camelia Jacobs

I Spy Ocean Animals by Camelia Jacobs

 
A Children’s Ocean Animal Spy book with clear pictures and child-friendly colors to boost the children’s habit to explore and find. In this book children will learn to observe multiple ocean animal pictures and discover the correct one, and the next page provides the proper answer!
Book cover for How to Catch a Clover Thief by Elise Parsley

How To Catch a Clover Thief by Elise Parsley

When a wild boar with a passion for clover discovers a rare patch in the woods, he is determined to patiently stand guard until it blooms–but he is not the only clover enthusiast in the forest, and it takes reading a good book for him to figure out the mystery

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the same routine, your child knows what to expect and, perhaps, they will be more inclined to lay their head down when the stars begin to shine and the moon beckons them to sleep.

Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Monday & Tuesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 11 – 23 months

Welcome Songs

Here We Are Together

Here we are together, together, together! Oh, here we are together in our library. There’s (sing names)… Here we are together in our library!

Hello Everybody

Hello everybody let’s clap our hands*, clap our hands, clap our hands. Hello everybody let’s clap our hands today! *pat our head, stretch up high, wiggle our fingers, tickle our knees, kick our feet, bounce up high!

S, T, R, W, P

(Sing while pointing to each finger on your child’s hand.) Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play each day!

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

TIP

“Child-adult relationships that are responsive and attentive—with lots of back and forth interactions—build a strong foundation in a child’s brain for all future learning and development. This is called “serve and return,” and it takes two to play!” – https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/5-steps-for-brain-building-serve-and-return/

Activity

Try to observe a “serve” from your child. Did she point at something or make a sound or facial expression? Then “return” the “serve” with an acknowledgement, hug, smile, etc. Try this a couple of times a day. When you return a “serve”, your child knows that their thoughts and feelings are understood.

Books Presented

Book cover for Hen in the Bed by Katrina Charman

Hen in the Bed by Katrina Charman

Count the funny animal friends as they noisily roll, flop, and tumble out of bed, one by one, in this clever split-page picture book.
Book cover for Rock-a-bye Baby by Jane Cabrera

Rock-a-bye Baby by Jane Cabrera

Different animals soothe their babies to sleep in this new version of the familiar folk song

Book cover for Cornelius P. Mud, Are You Ready for Bed? by Barney Saltzberg

Cornelius P. Mud, Are you Ready for Bed? by Barney Saltzberg

Cornelius the pig has his own style when preparing for bed, but he does not really feel ready until he gets a hug.

Book cover for Do Mommies Ever Sleep? by Kim Howard

Do Mommies Ever Sleep? by Kim Howard

A baby imagines all the reasons why mommies never seem to sleep, failing to understand that it is often because babies need so much attention

Book cover for Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

At bedtime, a little llama worries after his mother puts him to bed and goes downstairs.
Book cover for Big Kid Bed by Leslie Patricelli

Big Kid Bed by Leslie Patricelli

When it is time for bed, a baby marvels at his new big kid bed.
Book cover for When Stars Arise by E.G. Alaraj

When Stars Arise by Evangelene Alaraj

A dusky rural landscape and comforting bedtime routine draw a child closer to sleep in this illustrated lullaby board book.

Book cover for Good Night, Baby

Good Night, Baby

Babies from all over the world get ready for bed, and say “good night” in fifteen of the world’s most spoken languages.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

There Were Five in the Bed

There were five in the bed (Hold up five fingers)
And the little one said, “Roll over, roll over!” (Make rolling motion)
So they are rolled over and one fell out. (Hold up one finger & surprised face)
*Countdown until one.

There was one in the bed (Hold up one finger)
And the little one said, “Goodnight!” (Sign language- goodnight)

Source: Storytime Katie

Giddyap Giddyap

Giddyap, giddyap ride to town
Giddyap, giddyap up and down
Giddyap fast, giddyap slow
Giddyap, giddyap WHOA! (lean baby back)

Source: Verona Storytime

Hey Diddle Diddle

Hey, diddle, diddle,
The cat and the fiddle,
The cow jumped over the moon;
The little dog laughed
To see such sport,
And the dish ran away with the spoon.

Elephants at the Zoo

(tune of Farmer in the Dell)
The elephants at the zoo, the elephants at the zoo,
They stomp and stomp and stomp and stomp, the elephants at the zoo

The lions at the zoo…roar

The monkeys at the zoo…jump

The animals at the zoo, the animals at the zoo, they close their eyes and sleep at night. The animals at the zoo.

Source: Adapted from Read Sing Play

Lift One Foot and Then the Other

Lift one foot and then the other,
Lift one foot and then the other
Lift one foot and then the other
Lift them both together.
(Verses: Lift one leg, clap your hands and keep on clapping)

Source: Jbrary

Here is a Baby

Here is a baby ready for a nap
Hold up index finger
Lay her down in her mother’s lap
Place index finger in palm of other hand
Cover her up so she won’t peek
Curl fingers of other hand around index finger
Rock her till she’s fast asleep.
Swing hands gently together.

Source: Mel’s Desk

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler Time: Walking Together

As you look forward to the first steps of your infant, don’t forget the benefit of walking outside with your child. Not only is it a great self-care activity for you as a caregiver, but it opens up the world to your child as they develop and find themselves in a...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddler Time: Eric Carle

If you haven’t discovered the bold, colorful world of Eric Carle, you are in for a enchanting experience. “Eric Carle (1929-2021) was the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. But that’s not the only reason why he received nearly 10,000 fan letters every year. Carle...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Music & Movement

Music and movement can improve a child’s mood and help to reduce stress all while stimulating the formation of important brain connections. So, sing those lullabies, dance in the kitchen, play an instrument, and sing a book with your baby each and every day! ​ ​ Book...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs, dinosaurs, we love you! We love the way you stomp! We love the way you chomp! We love the way you soar! And, we especially love the way you, ROAR! There are so many things to do with your budding dinosaur. ​Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Under the Sea

Glub! Glub! Glub! went the slippery little fish! Children love “diving” under the sea and meeting all the different creatures who reside in the deep blue ocean. In addition to the activities listed below, try filling a large container with water, possibly tinting it...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Opposites

Children love learning about the world around them, and using concept words with compare/contrast are a great way to help them see things differently. So, try talking about movement, textures, feelings, etc. with its conceptual opposite such as, “Look at the car...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Farm Animals

Let’s go to the farm! Some of the first sounds a child will make are the sounds of an animal like a cow. You can help him make a sound/image association with a DIY flip-the-flap picture book. Using a small spiral notebook, paste pictures of animals on every other page...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help your child expand their universe with their imagination!

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Reading is one of the best ways to foster imagination. The more we read, the better we can build up and expand our knowledge. We can be open to new ideas and have an understanding of new things. ~http://worldliteracyfoundation.org/reading-enhances-imagination/

 

Activity

When you read a book with your child, run your finger under the title as you read the words. If the book has a repeated phrase, run your finger under those words as well. Encourage your child to say the repeated phrase, methodically pointing to each word as he says it. ~Lambert

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Pete the Cat's Groovy Imagination by Kim Dean

Pete the Cat's Groovy Imagination by Kim Dean

When a cloudy gray sky cancels Pete the Cat’s beach day plans, a big box is all he needs to beat the rainy-day blues.

Book cover for Manolo and the Unicorn by Jacki Azúa Kramer

Manolo & the Unicorn by Jackie Azúa Kramer

Despite being teased by his classmates, Manolo continues to believe in unicorns and meets one of the magical creatures on his way home from school.

Book cover for Ready to Soar by Cori Doerrfeld

See This Little Dot by Jane Yolen

Illustrates the characteristics and possible functions of a dot.

Book cover for Are You a Monster? by Guilherme Karsten

Are You a Monster? by Guilherme Karsten

Warning! This book contains a monster. A really angry, really scary, really bad monster… or so the monster says. And Monster has a very important question: are you a monster too? A fun interactive read-aloud picture book that will have children of all ages roaring and stomping along, as Monster encourages them to be the scariest monster possible.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Pete In The Box

Pete in the box*
sits so still
Will he come out?
Yes, he will!
*rocket ship, submarine, race car

Unicorn, Unicorn

Unicorn, unicorn
Where can you be?
Are you behind the _______ tree?

Polka-Dot Monster

(tune: I’m a little teapot)
I’m a little monster, friendly and bright.
I promise I won’t give you a fright.
I really love polka dots, but I have none.
So step right up and give me [color] ones.

Source: Little Bit Librarian

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a hippo flying an airplane.

Adventures in Your Imagination

 

 

Airplane craft made from folding paper strips and gluing them together onto a blue background.

Monster Mask

Additional Books

Book cover for I Lived Inside a Whale by Xin Li

I Lived Inside a Whale by Xin Li

A young girl escapes from a too loud and busy world by living inside a whale, but when her retreat is disturbed by an intruder, she learns people will be quiet and listen whenever she tells a story.

Book cover for Daddy, Tell Me a Story by Kathleen Long Bostrom

Daddy, Tell Me a Story by Kathleen Long Bostrom

Daddy’s bedtime story turns into a collaborative and unforgettable tale thanks to Sophie’s narrative revisions.

Book cover for What If Bedtime Didn't Exist? by Francine Cunningham

What If Bedtime Didn't Exist? by Francine Cunningham

A whimsical and lyrical celebration of imagination and exploration if we simply asked, “What if . . .” Follow two siblings through their day as they let their imaginations run wild in this joyful story about all the possibilities a simple “what if” can conjure up: What if the monsters in your closet wanted to be your friend? What if all of the dinosaurs were shrunk to be teeny-tiny when the comet hit the earth? And what if bedtime didn’t exist and we could imagine anything we wanted? What If Bedtime Didn’t Exist? places an Urban Indigenous family at the heart of a fun and fantastical celebration of daydreaming, adventure, and play while living in the city. The tenderness and care in this intergenerational home is seen through relationships with all members in the family.

Book cover for Daisy the Daydreamer by Jennifer P. Goldfinger

Daisy the Daydreamer by Jennifer P. Goldfinger

Daisy’s daydream clouds sometimes get in the way, but she and her teacher find a creative way to make things work for her

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help your child expand their universe with their imagination!

Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Monday & Tuesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 11 – 23 months

Welcome Songs

Here We Are Together

Here we are together, together, together! Oh, here we are together in our library. There’s (sing names)… Here we are together in our library!

Hello Everybody

Hello everybody let’s clap our hands*, clap our hands, clap our hands. Hello everybody let’s clap our hands today! *pat our head, stretch up high, wiggle our fingers, tickle our knees, kick our feet, bounce up high!

S, T, R, W, P

(Sing while pointing to each finger on your child’s hand.) Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play! Sing, talk, read, write, play each day!

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

TIP

Imagination needs to be stretched and used just like your child’s muscles! Don’t be afraid to create a world using your imagination and play with your child!

Activity

Using typical household items such as a sheet and chairs, bowls and spoons, or boxes, have a pretend play session by turning the sheets into a tent, or the bowls and into boats and paddles, or the box into a cave.

Books Presented

Book cover for There's a Monster in Your Book by Tom Fletcher

There's a Monster in Your Book by Tom Fletcher

Encourages the reader to shake, tilt, and wiggle the book to remove the little monster inside, but once it is out, another problem arises.

Book cover for Higher! Higher! by Leslie Patricielli

Higher! Higher! by Leslie Patricelli

A little girl. One swing. An obliging dad. The inevitable plea to go “Higher! Higher!” An everyday pastime reaches new heights of humor and whimsy. How high can it go? Higher than a giraffe? Taller than a mountain? Is Earth the final frontier?

Book cover for Let's Play Monsters! by Lucy Cousins

Let's Play Monsters! by Lucy Cousins

Inspired by a game played by the author with her own grandchild, a crayon-bright story by the award-winning creator of the Maisy series invites little monsters to munch, scrunch, gobble and moo their way through imaginative interactions with loved ones before settling down to sleep.

Book cover for Sitting in My Box by Dee Lillegard

Sitting in My Box by Dee Lillegard

The box in which all the animals are sitting gets more and more crowded until a hungry flea comes along.

Book cover for Today I'll be a Unicorn by Dana Simpson

Today I'll be a Unicorn

Who wouldn’t want to be a unicorn? The stars of Phoebe and Her Unicorn celebrate the magical and enchanting world of being a unicorn in this charming board book.

Book cover for Crinkle, Crinkle, Little Car by Jay Fleck

Crinkle, Crinkle, Little Car by Jay Fleck

In the style of the starry nursery tune, a noisy little car zooms through the night sky, waking the Moon, Mars, and the stars with his noisy honking–until finally he returns home to a good night’s sleep. The reader is invited to touch the textured material on each page to make a crackly, crinkly sound.

Book cover for Faster! Faster! by Leslie Patricelli

Faster! Faster! by Leslie Patricelli

A funny tale of few words about a day at the park and a ride on Daddy’s back.

Book cover for The Button Book by Sally Nicholls

The Button Book by Sally Nicholls

Follow a group of animal friends as they discover a collection of mysterious buttons, all of which do different things! From a blue singing button to a purple tickle button, from a rude sound button to a mysterious white button, there’s only one way to find out what they do: press them all! And thankfully, there’s even a sleeping button to lull the animals to sleep after a busy day.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Grand Old Duke of York

The Grand Old Duke of York 
He had ten thousand men
He marched them up to the top of the hill 
And he marched them down again. 
And when they’re up, they’re up. 
And when they’re down, they’re down. 
And when they’re only halfway up 
They’re neither up nor down.

Oh he marched them to the left.
And he marched them to the right.
Then he marched them up to the top of the hill,
And marched them out of sight. 

Source: Jbrary

5 Little Leaves

Five little leaves so bright and gay,
Were dancing in a tree one day.
The wind came blowing through the town,
One little leaf came tumbling down.
(4,3,2,1…)

Source: Literacious

The Acorn Song

I’m an acorn small and round
lying on the cold, cold, ground
people always step on me
that is why I’m cracked you see
I’m a nut (clack, clack)
I’m a nut (clack, clack)
I’m a nut, I’m a nut, I’m a nut (clack, clack)

Source: Jbrary

Roly Poly

(Tune: “Frère Jacques”)
Roly poly, roly poly
Up, up, up
up, up, up
Roly roly poly
roly roly poly
down, down, down
down, down, down

Repeat with: out/in, fast/slow

Source: Jbrary

 

Can You Shake Your Egg With Me?

(Tune:London Bridge)
Can you shake your egg with me?
Shake your egg along with me
It’s as easy as can be
Now put it on your tummy!
(head,knee,ear,etc.)

Source: Jbrary

The Monsters Stomp Around the House

The monsters stomp around the house
hurrah, hurrah
The monsters stomp around the house
hurrah, hurrah
The monsters stomp around the house
Their brothers and sisters kick them out
So they stomp some more outside, oh yeah
Around the house
Boom, boom, boom

Source: Jbrary

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler Time: Walking Together

As you look forward to the first steps of your infant, don’t forget the benefit of walking outside with your child. Not only is it a great self-care activity for you as a caregiver, but it opens up the world to your child as they develop and find themselves in a...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddler Time: Eric Carle

If you haven’t discovered the bold, colorful world of Eric Carle, you are in for a enchanting experience. “Eric Carle (1929-2021) was the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. But that’s not the only reason why he received nearly 10,000 fan letters every year. Carle...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Music & Movement

Music and movement can improve a child’s mood and help to reduce stress all while stimulating the formation of important brain connections. So, sing those lullabies, dance in the kitchen, play an instrument, and sing a book with your baby each and every day! ​ ​ Book...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs, dinosaurs, we love you! We love the way you stomp! We love the way you chomp! We love the way you soar! And, we especially love the way you, ROAR! There are so many things to do with your budding dinosaur. ​Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Under the Sea

Glub! Glub! Glub! went the slippery little fish! Children love “diving” under the sea and meeting all the different creatures who reside in the deep blue ocean. In addition to the activities listed below, try filling a large container with water, possibly tinting it...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Opposites

Children love learning about the world around them, and using concept words with compare/contrast are a great way to help them see things differently. So, try talking about movement, textures, feelings, etc. with its conceptual opposite such as, “Look at the car...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Farm Animals

Let’s go to the farm! Some of the first sounds a child will make are the sounds of an animal like a cow. You can help him make a sound/image association with a DIY flip-the-flap picture book. Using a small spiral notebook, paste pictures of animals on every other page...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the book. This activity encourages awareness of your child’s surroundings and promotes STEM learning at the same time.

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Children are born curious. From a very young age, they show interest in exploring the world around them. Tune into your child’s discoveries and use words to talk with them about the things they see, hear, and feel. — https://talkingisteaching.org/

Activity

Go on a “Look and Find” walk either outside or in the house and collect a variety of objects. Then talk about how you can sort and categorize the items into groups perhaps by color, texture, or perhaps smell.

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Abracadabra, It's Spring by Anne Sibley O'Brien

Abracadabra, It's Spring! by Anne Sibley O'Brien

Winter turns to spring in this lyrical book that celebrates the magic of nature and the changing seasons. Eleven gatefolds open to recreate the excitement and surprise of spring’s arrival

Book cover for The Hike by Alison Farrell

The Hike by Alison Farrell

The Hike is a plucky and sweet adventure story about three intrepid young female explorers set out to conquer the outdoors in their local forest. Here is the best and worst of any hike: from picnics to puffing and panting, deer-sighting to detours. This spirited picture book is filled with lyrical language that captures the majesty of the natural world, coupled with a fun narrative throughout. Features a glossary and scientific backmatter. Includes a sketchbook by one of the characters that highlights aspects of the hike. Abundant labels throughout for scientific learning. The Hike is about how fun it can be to explore nature in your own backyard. This book is a must-have for budding scientists, best friends, and all adventurers in preschool and kindergarten.

Book cover for Acorn Was a Little Wild by Jen Arena

Acorn was a Little Wild by Jen Arena

Acorn is the first one off the tree, longing for adventure and new experiences (though maybe not being eaten), but when a squirrel buries Acorn he is forced to stay still in the dark until the exciting changes begin, and he grows into a mighty oak–though at heart he is still a little wild.

Book cover for Outside In by Deborah Underwood

Outside In by Deborah Underwood

Outside is waiting, the most patient playmate of all. The most generous friend. The most miraculous inventor. This thought-provoking picture book poetically underscores our powerful and enduring connection with nature, not so easily obscured by lives spent indoors. Rhythmic, powerful language shows us how our world is made and the many ways Outside comes in to help and heal us, and reminds us that we are all part of a much greater universe. Emotive illustrations evoke the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that await us all … outside

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Green Grass Grew All Around

Oh in the woods, there was a tree
The prettiest tree
You ever did see
And the tree was in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

And on that tree
There was a limb
The prettiest limb
That you ever did see
And the limb was on the tree
And the tree in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

And on that limb
There was a branch
The prettiest branch
That you ever did see
And the branch was on the limb,
And the limb was on the tree,
And the tree was in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

And on that branch
There was a nest
The prettiest nest
That you ever did see
And the nest was on the branch
And the branch was on the limb
And the limb was on the tree
And the tree was in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

And in that nest
There was an egg
The prettiest egg
That you ever did see
And the egg was in the nest
And the nest was on the branch
And the branch was on the limb
And the limb was on the tree
And the tree was in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

And in that egg
There was a bird
The prettiest bird
That you ever did see
And the bird was in the egg
And the egg was in the nest
And the nest was on the branch
And the branch was on the limb
And the limb was on the tree
And the tree was in the ground
And the green grass grew all around, all around, and the green grass grew all around

The Acorn Song

I’m an acorn small and round
lying on the cold, cold, ground
people always step on me
that is why I’m cracked you see
I’m a nut (clack, clack)
I’m a nut (clack, clack)
I’m a nut, I’m a nut, I’m a nut (clack, clack)

Source: Jbrary

5 Little Leaves

Five little leaves so bright and gay,
Were dancing in a tree one day.
The wind came blowing through the town,
One little leaf came tumbling down.
(4,3,2,1…)

Source: Literacious

My Little Turle

This is my little turtle.
(Make fist)
He lives alone in a shell.
He likes his little home.
He thinks it’s really swell. He pokes out his head
(Poke out thumb)
When he wants to eat.
Then he pulls it back in.
(Hide thumb in fist)
When he wants to sleep.

Source: Librarian is on the Loose

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring flowers and a butterfly.

Adventures in Nature

 

 

Make a weaving loom to take on a hike in nature.

Nature Weaving Board

Additional Books

Book cover for Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping by Melanie Watt

Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping by Mélanie Watt

Scaredy Squirrel takes a trip through the campground and finds out the wilderness is meant to be enjoyed up close.

Book cover for Log Life by Amy Hevron

Log Life by Amy Hevron

A nonfiction picture book that’s all about the tiny world of nurse log habitats. Nurse logs are tiny ecosystems with hundreds of rare and important life forms. When old trees fall to the forest floor, they can take centuries to decompose, helping all sorts of organism for hundreds of years. They provide nutrients for tree seedlings, hideaways for small animals, shelters for the winter, and protection from the elements

Book cover for The Slug and the Snail by Oein DeBhairduin

The Slug and the Snail by Oein DeBhairduin

Two slug brothers travel happily together until an old crow asks them where their home is. The younger brother, feeling embarrassed, makes himself a shell, and calls himself a snail. The older brother carries on as he is. At first, the brothers grow apart. But in time they learn to respect each other’s way of life.

Book cover for Brown is Beautiful by Supriya Kelkar

Brown is Beautiful by Supriya kelkar

On a hike with her grandparents, a young Indian-American girl makes note of all the things in the wilderness that are brown, too. Includes instructions on how to make a scrapbook.

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Children are born curious. From a very young age, they show interest in exploring the world around them. Tune into your child’s discoveries and use words to talk with them about the things they see, hear, and feel. — https://talkingisteaching.org/

Activity

Go on a “Look and Find” walk either outside or in the house and collect a variety of objects. Then talk about how you can sort and categorize the items into groups perhaps by color, texture, or perhaps smell.

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Truck Full of Ducks by Ross Burach

Truck Full of Ducks by Ross Burach

Did you call for a truck full of ducks? Join the flock on this wacky call-and-response ride to find out just WHO did–and why.
Book cover for Rumie Goes Rafting by Meghan Marentette

Rumie Goes Rafting by Meghan Marentette

Rumie, a forest dwelling mouse, longs to sail down the stream and find out where it leads. Unfortunately, it is spring and the season needs to see more rain before the stream will be deep enough for Uncle’s sail boat. However, after spotting a ladybird floating down the stream on a leaf, Rumie hatches an idea–they should build a raft! Uncle agrees to help out. They construct the raft and make plans to test it out together the next morning. Rumie wakes up bright and early and ready to raft, but Uncle is still sleeping. Rumie waits and waits, until they just can’t wait any longer, and they decide there’s no harm in testing out the raft alone. Rumie starts in the shallows, but rain from the night before made the current stronger than Rumie expected, and suddenly both Rumie and raft are swept away, down the stream. Before long, Rumie discovers exactly where the stream goes–right over a waterfall! The raft flips over and luckily, Uncle is there in time to throw Rumie a life buoy and pull them to shore. Back on the shore, Uncle reveals that he was up late the night before sewing life jackets. Rumie realizes that they should have waited for their Uncle instead of going out alone. As they row out onto the lake that afternoon together (with lifejackets on!), the ladybird floats by again. Suddenly, a new idea hatches, and Rumie’s head is filled with dreams of flying

Book cover for Ready to Soar by Cori Doerrfeld

Ready to Soar by Cori Doerrfeld

Riley’s paper airplane is ready for take-off, but criticisms from all the birds threaten to ground the plane, until Riley meets a more supportive friend and rediscovers the joy of soaring

Book cover for Bing! Bang! Chugga! Beep! by Bill Martin Jr and Michael Sampson

Bing! Bang! Chugga! Beep! by Bill Martin Jr

Bing! Bang! Chugga! Beep! is the latest charming tale from rhyming pair Bill Martin Jr and Michael Sampson. This old car has been everywhere from the backyard to the sky, from the hills to the water. Bouncing between the mud in the ground and the clouds up high, the old car is loved by a clever young boy …

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Silly duck

Silly duck, silly duck,
Are you under the _______ truck?

Row, Row, Row, Your Boat 

Row, Row, Row, Your Boat
Gently down the stream
Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily
Life is but a dream

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the stream,
If you see a crocodile,
Don’t forget to scream.

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the Nile,
If you see a camel,
Don’t forget to smile.

Row, row, row your boat
Across the ocean bay
If you see a great big ship,
Don’t forget to wave.

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the river,
If you see a polar bear,
Don’t forget to shiver.

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently to the shore,
If you see a lion there,
Don’t forget to roar!

Row, row, row your boat,
Gently down the creek,
If you see a little mouse,
Don’t forget to squeak.

Source: Jbrary

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a hippo flying an airplane.

Travel Adventures

 

 

Airplane craft made from folding paper strips and gluing them together onto a blue background.

Paper Airplane

Additional Books

Book cover for Addie Ant Goes on an Adventure by Maren Morris

Addie Ant Goes On An Adventure by Maren Morris

Addie Ant travels from one garden bed to another on her first solo adventure. As she forges her own path, she gets lost along the way and finds help from her trusted garden pals, Lewis Ladybug, Beatrix Butterfly, and Cleo Cricket, in finding her way back home. A celebration of friendship, this sweet book is a collaboration by renowned, musical artist Maren Morris and former schoolteacher and close friend Karina Argow. Artist Kelly Anne Dalton brings the delightfully written characters to life with colorful and charming illustrations. Join Addie Ant in a vast and magical garden adventure full of insect friends, growing vegetables, blooming flowers, and the inspiring abundance of nature.

Book cover for Bearplane! by Deborah Underwood

Bearplane! by Deborah Underwood

Buckle up for a little bear’s first flight in this adorable, light-as-air picture book by New York Times bestselling author Deborah Underwood and critically acclaimed artist Sam Wedelich. Follow a bear cub, their grownup, and their beloved stuffie Teddy as they make their way through the busy airport and cub’s first plane ride. Their destination? A bear-y special family reunion with grandma! This cheerful, rhyming, reassuring go-to for little ones preparing for their first (or second or tenth) flight is a gentle adventure full of accessible bear puns and delightful touches, plus a detailed map of the bear-port on the endpapers. Here’s the shuttle—climb inside. Time for your first bearplane ride!

Book cover for Lift by Minh Lê

Lift by Minh Lê

 
From the award-winning and bestselling creators of Drawn Together comes the fantastic tale of a magical elevator that will lift your spirits–and press all the right buttons! Iris loves to push the elevator buttons in her apartment building, but when it’s time to share the fun with a new member of the family, she’s pretty put out. That is, until the sudden appearance of a mysterious new button opens up entire realms of possibility, places where she can escape and explore on her own. But when she’s forced to choose between going at it alone or letting her little brother tag along, Iris finds that sharing a discovery with the people you love can be the most wonderful experience of all. Using their dynamic comics-inspired storytelling, acclaimed author Minh Lê and Caldecott Medal-winning artist Dan Santat carry readers on a journey of ups, downs, and twists and turns that will send hearts–and imaginations–soaring.
Book cover for Tofu Takes Time by Helen H. Wu

Around the World We Go! by Margaret Wise Brown

It’s time to travel the world! Sing, dance, and play with children of other cultures

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

Storytime: W is for Waiting

Storytime: W is for Waiting

Storytime: W is for Waiting

In this era of instant gratification, waiting or patience can be a difficult concept for anyone to learn, especially children. But we can assist them in developing this essential skill by giving them experiences, talking about why and how to wait, and the benefits of doing so. The skills of waiting and self regulation helps children develop successful classroom behavior, and it will come in handy when they start school.

Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Waiting is not easy, but it can be one of the most important concepts a child can learn. For some children, it comes naturally, and others, it’s difficult. Determine the waiting expectations for your child and find opportunities to hone their waiting skills.

Activity

Because repeating an activity helps children become more comfortable and responsive to it, try playing “Stop! And wait…” with familiar games like, “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” or “Walking, Walking.” For more information and activities, visit Scholastic Parents Teaching Patience

Books Presented

Book cover for Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Piggie tells Gerald she has a surprise for him, but it is not there yet so Gerald must be patient.
Book cover for Miss MacDonald Has a Farm by Kalee Gwarjanski

Miss MacDonald has a Farm by Kalee Gwarjanski

In this female-forward spin on the traditional children’s song, readers meet Miss MacDonald on her vegetable farm and learn about gardening, seasons, plant-based meals, and local produce

Book cover for When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin

When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin

A mindful, gentle picture book about patience and learning to find beauty in the act of waiting

Book cover for Pete the Cat Hickory Dickory Dock by Kim Dean

Pete the Cat Hickory Dickory Dock by Kim Dean

Hickory dickory dock. Pete the Cat went up the clock! The clock struck one. The cat went down. Hickory dickory dock.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

There’s Something in the Barn

Open up the barn door, the spring goes “Boink.”
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Oink, oink, oink.”
Open up the barn door before the clock strikes two.
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Moo, moo, moo.”
Open up the barn door, it’s a sunny day.
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Neigh, neigh, neigh.”
Open up the barn door, singing, “Tra-la-la.”
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Blaa, blaa, blaa.”
Open up the barn door, while the sky is blue.
There’s somehing in the barn, saying, “Cock-a-doodle-do!”

Crafts and Activities

Waiting is not easy coloring page featuring Elephant Gerald and Piggie

W is for Waiting - English and Spanish

Coloring page created with Canva and Elephant and Piggie Coloring Pages

 

Elephant and Piggie headband craft

Elephant and Piggie Headband Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Waiting by Kevin Henkes

Waiting by Kevin Henkes

Five animal toys wait for marvelous things to happen.

Book cover for Ten on a Twig by Lo Cole

Ten on a Twig by Lo Cole

Illustrations and an easy-to-read countdown rhyme follow ten birds that, one by one, fall off the twig on which they were sitting, but the last one finds a surprise waiting.

Book cover for Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown

Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown

When a man brings to a remote village two burros, Alfa and Beto, loaded with books the children can borrow, Ana’s excitement leads her to write a book of her own as she waits for the BibliBurro to return. Includes glossary of Spanish terms and a note on the true story of Columbia’s BiblioBurro and mobile libraries in other countries.

Book cover for Tofu Takes Time by Helen H. Wu

Tofu Takes Time by Helen H. Wu

Lin makes tofu with her grandma and discovers that patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family

More Story Times

Storytime: Adventures in the Dark

Some children are afraid of the dark, but with careful conversations, they can discover that, even in the dark or night time, they can find light and even an adventure! Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages...

Storytime: Adventures Close to Home

Let’s go on an adventure… in your own backyard. Or perhaps you’d like to check out some of the great places in your community. Adventures close to home build lasting memories and relationships with your child. So, hop on a bike, load up the stroller and discover...

Storytime: Puzzles, Scavenger Hunts & Mysteries

Mysteries, scavenger hunts, and puzzles are not only great fun for both you and your child, but they also build critical thinking, problem solving and social skills. So, pull out a puzzle or go on a nature scavenger hunt together. When reading a book with a mysterious...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

Storytime: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

Storytime: Adventures in Nature

For this early literacy adventure, it’s time to go outside! Use the nature weaving board to collect things from your environment, read a book about exploring the outdoors, and then compare and contrast the nature weave board with items you and your child found in the...

Storytime: Travel Adventures

Where will you travel on your adventure? To the mountains, the city, or is it someplace on the other side of the world? A book can take you anywhere you’d like to go, so buckle up, grab your helmet, and start a grand travel adventure today!Join us Tuesdays, and...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

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