Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in November

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in November

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in November

For the last storytime of each month, we will present books that are “new” to our library, and perhaps new to you! Here are four of our favorites with an activity to go with each one of them. Enjoy!

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

Pretending fosters your child’s imagination. If you sing “I’m a Little Teapot” at home and you have a teapot, show it to your child and ask, “Where is the handle?” “Where is the spout?” Pretend to drink a cup of tea together and discuss what it tastes like.

Activity

If you have a teapot, show it to your child and describe how it looks. Then sing the song. 
I’m a little teapot short and stout. (Stand up and bend knees.)
Here is my handle, here is my spout. (Hand on one hip; hold other hand out to side.)
When I get all steamed up, hear me shout, (Wiggle.)
“Just tip me over and pour me out.” (Lean in the direction of your spout.)

Books Presented

The Runaway Pea by Kjartan Poskitt

The Runaway Pea by Kjartan Poskitt

The Runaway Pea wants an amazing adventure. But will he survive the dangers of the dog bowl, the mousetrap, and the toaster’s fiery depths? Or will he meet his unhaPEA end?

Molly, Olive and Dexter Play Hide-and-Seek by Catherine Rayner

Molly, Olive and Dexter Play Hide-and-Seek by Catherine Rayner

Meet Molly the hare, Olive the owl, and Dexter the fox, three friends who live near the oak tree at the edge of the meadow. Hide-and-seek is Molly’s favorite game, but things aren’t going her way. For starters, Olive and Dexter don’t seem to know the rules. And when Molly shows her friends how to play properly, they hide a little too well. Set in a delicately rendered pastoral world of soft color and shimmering line, here is a picture book that tackles outsize toddler emotions with sensitivity and whimsy. Make way for the singular Molly, Olive, and Dexter–ready or not, here they come!

A Creature Was Stirring by Heather S. Pierzynski

A Creature Was Stirring by Heather S. Pierczynski

A young mouse refuses to go to sleep. “Go to bed,” whispers the cat. “It’s the night before Christmas.” But, despite the unseen narrator’s assertion that “not a creature was stirring,” wide-eyed, big-eared Mouse is far too exuberant to snooze. He proceeds to ride a tricycle around the tree, crack nuts, and nibble cookies. Tiny vignettes depicting his Yuletide antics are followed by a full-page spread in which Mouse rushes out onto a snow-filled street with a full marching band. As he makes merry, everyone–from the house to the city to the whole world–exhorts him to “GO TO BED.” So he does…but not for long. He just can’t sleep! Hopping aboard the Christmas train, he crashes into Santa himself! Can Santa convince our hero to finally head to bed? In this irresistible holiday tale inspired by The Night Before Christmas, the author and illustrator reveal why only a mouse is singled out within the original holiday poem by Clement Clarke Moore.

If You Laugh, I'm Starting This Book Over by Chris Harris

If You Laugh, I'm Starting This Book Over by Chris Harris

Readers are challenged not to laugh in a series of increasingly hilarious prompts and jokes that lead to a serious message about the pleasures of laughter

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Two Little Green Peas

Two little green peas sleeping in a pod,
One named Tess and the other named Todd.
Fall asleep Tess, fall asleep Todd
Wake up Tess, wake up Todd!

Two little green peas sitting in a pod,
One named Tess and the other named Todd.
Run away Tess, run away Todd
Come back Tess, come back Todd!

Two little green peas planted in a dirt clod,
One named Tess and the other named Todd.
Shooting roots Tess, shooting roots Todd
Grow up Tess, grow up Todd!

Olive and Dexter, Where Can You Be?

Olive and Dexter, where can you be?
Are you behind the _________ tree?
5, 4, 3, 2… 1!
Ready or not, here we come!

Mason the Mouse

I’m Mason the Mouse and my ears flip and flap.
I can change my color when I hear a loud CLAP!

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
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
And wiggle my waggles away

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
And wiggle my waggles away

Crafts and Activities

Something New Just for You coloring page featuring peas

Something New Just For You

Peas in a pod craft

Peas in a Pod

Make a peapod full of peas

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

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Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

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June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: U is for Under

Storytime: U is for Under

Storytime: U is for Under

Can you think of some words that fit with the word, UNDER? Perhaps… underground, under the sea, under the umbrella, under the bed, and even underwear! Directional words are a great learning tool for children, especially when they begin writing their letters and words. They help your child to see things like… lowercase j goes “under” or below the line. So, try talking with directional words as your child discovers where things lie in relation to each other in their world.

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

Phonological awareness is a set of critical pre-reading skills: the ability to hear, identify, and play with the sounds in spoken language — including rhymes, syllables, and phonemes. Children with strong phonological awareness skills are ready to become readers.– www.readingrockets.org

Activity

Sing “Five Little Monsters” with your child and stop on the last word of each phrase. Help him to see how many words can end with the same sound, or rhyme with each other, such as “head” and “bed.” Then play the rhyming game. Pick a word, and find new words or even made up words that rhyme with the first.

Books Presented

Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hendlund

Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hendlund

Two animal friends at a park encounter a seemingly scary creature, but not everything is as it seems, and wordplay adds to the fun. Introduces the concept of compound words and homophones, and incorporates fun puns throughout.
Wombat Underground: A Wildfire Survival Story by Sarah L. Thomson

Wombat Underground: A Wildfire Survival Story by Sarah L. Thomson

During the fire season in Australia, a wombat allows its underground shelter to become a place of refuge for other vulnerable animals in need. Discusses Australia’s devastating 2019-2020 fire season, in which many animals lost their lives or their habitats.
Dear Big, Mean, Ugly Monster by Ruth Berglin

Dear Big, Mean, Ugly Monster by Ruth Berglin

Joe is afraid of the monster that lives under his bed until they exchange letters and learn surprising things about one another.
My Under the Sea Pop-Up Book by Gil Davies

My Under the Sea Pop-Up Book by Gil Davies

Friendly sea creature pop-ups, humorous rhyming text, fun illustrations.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Little Monsters

Five little monsters laying under the bed.
One stubbed her toe and bumped her head.
“It’s too crowded!” the _________ one said.
So, she took her blanket and she left the bed… room!

Four… three… Two… 

One little monster laying under the bed,
Stretched up tall and turned his head.
“Finally alone,” this last one said.
So, he fell asleep laying under the bed.

Wombat, Wombat

Wombat, wombat underground.
In which of these caves will he be found?

Popcorn Kernels

Popcorn Kernels (wave scarves overhead)
In the pot (make their scarves ‘disappear’ by bunching them up in their fists)
Shake them shake them shake them (shake)
’til they POP (Toss scarves up into the air)

Credit: Jbrary

Slippery Fish

Slippery fish, slippery fish, sliding through the water,
Slippery fish, slippery fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by an …

Octopus, octopus, squiggling in the water
Octopus, octopus, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Tuna fish, tuna fish, flashing in the water,
Tuna fish, tuna fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Great white shark, great white shark, lurking in the water,
Great white shark, great white shark, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Humongous whale, humongous whale, spouting in the water,
Humongous whale, humongous whale,
Gulp! … Gulp! … Gulp! … BURP!
(Cover your mouth.) Excuse me!

Credit: Amy Liz

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page with the letter o and an owl.

U is for Under

Baby owl craft for kids.

Underground Craft

Make a fun groundhog that pops up from underground.

Additional Books

The Tide Pool Waits by Candace Fleming

The Tide Pool Waits by Candace Fleming

Twice a day when the tide goes out, an astonishing world is revealed in the tide pools that form along the Pacific Coast. Some of the creatures that live here look like stone. Others look like plants. Some move so slowly it’s hard to tell if they’re moving at all, while others are so fast you’re not sure you really saw them. The biggest animals in the pool are smaller than your hand, while the smallest can’t be seen at all without a microscope. During low tide, all these creatures – big, small, fast, slow – are exposed to air and the sun’s drying heat. And so they have developed ways to survive the wait until the ocean’s return.
Jitterbug Jam by Barbara Jean Hicks

Jitterbug Jam by Barbara Jean Hicks

Grandpa Boo-Dad not only believes that Bobo has seen a pink-skinned boy with orange fur on his head hiding under the bed, he knows exactly how a little monster can scare off such a horrible creature.
Wombat Said Come In by Carmen Agra Deedy

Wombat Said Come In by Carmen Agra Deedy

Wombat opens his burrow to five animal friends–Wallaby, Kookaburra, Platypus, Koala, and Sugar Glider–who are seeking shelter from the Australian bushfires raging above.
Under Your Feet by Jacqueline L. Stroud

Under Your Feet by Jacqueline L. Stroud

Down where worms wriggle and microbes squirm, there’s a whole world waiting to be discovered… Under Your Feet delves beneath the Earth’s surface and explores the diverse wonders hidden there. Encounter creatures of the deep and marvel at the mind-boggling size of the humongous fungus–the biggest organism in the world. Learn how one handful of ordinary soil contains more organisms than there are people on Earth, and carry out experiments using dirt from your own back garden. Under Your Feet offers you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of the natural world and soil-dwelling creatures big and small. Bursting with colorful illustrations and photography, this is the perfect book for budding young plant experts, animal fanatics, and geologists, and anyone who is curious about the ground we walk on.

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Under the Sea

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Under the Sea

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 blue, and giving your toddler a turkey baster and bowls. Model for her how to squeeze the baster, fill it with water, and transfer it to the cup. This activity will help her develop fine motor skills and prepare her for writing in the future.

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

Library programs like this can be considered a child’s first class. Encouraging personal interactions with a group leader help children develop a positive attitude toward learning. When a leader shows appreciation to a child when she successfully completes a task (through clapping or encouraging words), the child feels pride and gains confidence in her abilities. These positive experiences of learning in a group setting at a young age help children form an enthusiastic attitude toward learning in a classroom setting. ~Lambert

Activity

Visit the library or another early learning facility for an organized program such as Toddler Time or Book Babies. After your child participates in an activity, praise him for his involvement and how he followed directions, even if it’s one small action. Then encourage him to show appreciation for the presenter at the end.

Books Presented

Ten Little Fish by Audrey Wood

Ten Little Fish by Audrey Wood

Follow ten little fish as they swim along a beautiful ocean reef, one by one departing from the school for different reasons, eventually leaving one fellow all alone. What will he do? Along comes another, and that makes two! Soon he becomes a father and she becomes a mother–with ten little children of their own. The rhyming text helps readers go from one to ten and back again, and each illustration pops with all the color and depth of an underwater playground.

I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry

I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin sherry

When a giant squid takes inventory of all of the creatures in the ocean, he realizes that he’s way bigger than most of them! Of course, there are bigger things lurking around . . . but maybe this giant squid with a giant touch of hubris doesn’t really care?
Somewhere in the Ocean by Jennifer Ward

Somewhere in the Ocean by Jennifer Ward

A counting book in rhyme presents various marine animals and their children, from a mother manatee and her little calf one to a mother octopus and her little babies ten. Numerals are hidden in each illustration.

Dude! by Aaron Reynolds

Dude! by Aaron Reynolds

 
A platypus and a beaver who love surfing encounter a shark — with unexpected results. Using just the one word “dude” this almost wordless picture book shows how much gnarly fun the dudes have surfing together.
Little White Fish by Guido van Genechten

Little White Fish by Guido van Genechten

Little White Fish is crying. He can’t find his mommy. While looking for her he sees all sorts of animals: a red crab, an orange starfish, a yellow snail, a green turtle, a blue whale and a purple octopus. But none of them are his mommy! Then he sees his mommy, and she has all the same colors as Little White Fish.

Well Done, Little White Fish by Guido van Genechten

Well Done, Little White Fish by Guido van Genechten

When he sees the special talents of his friends, Little White Fish wonders what special thing he can do.

Poor Little Guy by Elanna Allen

Poor Little Guy by Elanna Allen

An octopus gets a big surprise when he chooses to pick on a tiny fish in the ocean

Secret Seahorse by Stella Blackstone

Secret Seahorse by Stella Blackstone

A sea horse leads the reader past coral reefs and underwater creatures to a sea horse family hidden in a cave. Includes notes on coral reefs and various marine animals.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Ocean Song

Oh the ocean is great and the ocean is grand.
There are lots of tall ships and very little land.
And we sleep down deep in a hammock near the floor
And this is what we do when we go out the door:
We ride the waves going up, we ride the waves going down
We ride the waves going up, we ride the waves going down
We ride the waves going up, we ride the waves going down
And we turn around.

Credit: Verona Storytime

Slippery Fish

Slippery fish, slippery fish, sliding through the water,
Slippery fish, slippery fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by an …

Octopus, octopus, squiggling in the water
Octopus, octopus, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Tuna fish, tuna fish, flashing in the water,
Tuna fish, tuna fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Great white shark, great white shark, lurking in the water,
Great white shark, great white shark, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Humongous whale, humongous whale, spouting in the water,
Humongous whale, humongous whale,
Gulp! … Gulp! … Gulp! … BURP!
(Cover your mouth.) Excuse me!

Credit: Laptime Songs

 

Five Little Riders

Five little riders on a nice fall day,
Jumped on their ponies and rode far away.

They galloped in the meadow.
They galloped up a hill. (lift)
They galloped so fast,
That they all took a spill. (tip over)

Credit: Jbrary

Bubble, Bubble, Pop!

One little red fish
Swimming in the water,
Swimming in the water,
Swimming in the water.

One little red fish
Swimming in the water,
Bubble, bubble, bubble, bubble…POP!

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

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APRIL Book Babies + Toddler: Birthdays

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MARCH Book Babies + Toddlers: Lambs

Many of us grew up with classic nursery rhymes like Mary Had a Little Lamb and Baa, Baa, Black Sheep. As you teach those songs to your child, consider incorporating these additional activities to expand both your and your baby's nursery rhyme repertoire.Book Babies:...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

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FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: “C” is for Counting

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some fun ways to introduce numbers to your infant or toddler: ? 0-1 Year (Introduction to Numbers) Talk & Count: Count fingers, toes, and everyday...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: S is for Soup

Making and eating soup can be a sensory explosion for you and your child, especially when you make it together. Look for ingredients with a variety of colors, textures, and scents, then talk about where they came from, or count the pieces you’ve cut. Here are some...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Feelings

Ah, emotions… however big or small, can be difficult to manage for everyone, especially children. There are, however, tips and tricks you can use to help your child learn how to recognize and regulate their feelings, and you can start early, even with an infant. The...

Storytime: Umbrellas

Storytime: Umbrellas

Storytime: Umbrellas

“U” is for umbrella! Umbrellas come in handy in all sorts of weather. Maybe you need a big one for shade at the beach or waiting for the parade. And of course you want to grab one for the rain, whether it is a little mist or big down pour. An umbrella can be useful when the snow starts to flurry, especially if you forgot your hat. Books about umbrellas can help introduce different topics: types of weather, how to be prepared, and even sharing.

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

Weather and seasons are things that your children experience and can relate to. Try using their experiences to talk about the science behind weather, like thunder. Sometimes we ourselves don’t know all the facts, but we can find out right along with our children by using the books in the library. Simple scientific knowledge about everyday events gives children a strong foundation for later school learning. – Lambert

Activity

Use hand movements to illustrate the song Come Under My Umbrella.

Books Presented

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates

A spacious umbrella welcomes anyone and everyone who needs shelter from the rain.

The Umbrella by Beth Ferry

The Umbrella by Beth Ferry

 
A little girl and her dog unexpectedly discover a way to spread happiness and light in their dreary, rainy town.
Soaked! by Abi Cushman

Soaked! by Abi Cushman

A hula-hooping moose, a badger with a bumblebee umbrella and a rabbit in a cashmere sweater, show their grumpy bear friend that a day of fun does not have to depend on sunshine and blue skies.

Is That Wise, Pig? by Jan Thomas

Is That Wise, Pig? by Jan Thomas

Mouse and Cow are making soup, but Pig keeps trying to add strange ingredients

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

New Umbrella

(Tune: I’m A Little Teapot)
Here’s my new umbrella, (pretend to hold umbrella)
Wide and high. (open arms wide)
It keeps me cozy, warm, and dry. (hug yourself)
If the rain starts falling from the sky, (wiggle fingers like raindrops)
Just open me up and you’ll stay dry. (pretend to open umbrella, twirl around)

Credit: Stratford Library

Come Under My Umbrella

(Tune: Here We are Together)
Come under my umbrella, umbrella, umbrella.
Come under my umbrella, it’s starting to rain.
With thunder and lightning,
And thunder and lightning, 
Come under my umbrella, it’s starting to rain.

Credit: King County Library System

These Are the Colors Over You

(Tune: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star)
Red and Yellow, Green and Blue,
These are the colors over you.
Red like an apple and Green like a tree,
Yellow like the sun and Blue like the sea.
Red and Yellow, Green and Blue,
These are the colors over you.

Credit: Jbrary

Five Umbrellas

Five umbrellas stood by the back door,
The red one went outside, then there were four.
Four umbrellas, pretty as could be,
The blue one went outside, then there were three.
Three umbrellas with nothing to do,
The green one went outside, then there were two.
Two umbrellas not having much fun,
The yellow one went outside, then there was one.
Just one umbrella alone in the hall,
The purple one went outside, and that was all.

Credit: Storytime Shenanigans

Umbrella Colors

We keep our umbrellas, so that we may,
Have them all ready for a rainy day.
Here is a green one to keep us dry
When we open it up and hold it up high.
Have you seen the umbrella that’s ruby red?
It looks so regal held over our head.
We love the umbrella of sweet sky blue.
It’s big enough for both me and you.
The yellow umbrella is bright like the sun.
It makes puddle- jumping seem so much fun.
Our umbrellas are fun and so nice to see.
Just look at them all, we’re sure you’ll agree.

Credit: Stratford Library

Crafts and Activities

U is for Umbrella coloring page

U is for Umbrella

Paper Umbrella Craft

Paper Umbrella Craft

Make an umbrella out of paper

Additional Books

Umbrella by Taro Yashima

Umbrella by Taro Yashima

On her third birthday, Momo (whose name means “Peach” in her parents’ native Japan) receives rubber boots and an umbrella. Impatiently she waits for a rainy day so she can try out her new apparel.
Puddle by Hyewon Yum

Puddle by Hyewon Yum

A mother and son use their imagination to have fun on a rainy day

Wait by Antionette Portis

Wait by Antionette Portis

A … picture book about the joys of waiting and taking in what is around you

Rosie the Dragon and Charlie Make Waves by Lauren H. Kerstein

Rosie the Dragon and Charlie Make Waves by Lauren H. Kerstein

It’s summertime, and you’re invited for a rollicking day at the pool with Charlie and his pet dragon (and best friend!), Rosie. But be careful–swimming with a dragon can be, um, challenging. As Rosie and Charlie blow bubbles (don’t forget your umbrella!), practice flutter kicks (watch out for tidal waves!), and offer shoulder rides (hang on tight!), Rosie proves that dragons make the most fun pets ever. Now if only Charlie can keep Rosie’s attention focused on the rules at the pool and NOT on her gummy snacks (you know, the ones that cause stinky dragon breath!)…Grab your towels and sunscreen and join Rosie and Charlie for a fun-filled summer adventure

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: Uni-HORNS

Storytime: Uni-HORNS

Storytime: Uni-HORNS

“U” is for “Uni- horns!” Children love unicorns, but have they discovered the creatures from the animal kingdom that also have one horn? The rhinoceros and narwhal, of course! Except in the narwhal’s case, it’s actually a tusk, or a “tooth” growing out of it’s mouth through the top of it’s head. Talking about uni-horns with your child can lead to discussions about what’s real and make-believe, prefixes to words like, “Uni-” which means one, and similarities and differences. So, have fun with the Uni-horns!

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

Helping children hear the smaller sounds in words, or the syllables, by clapping them out is one way to develop their phonological awareness. Children can hear the syllables more easily than each individual sound in words. – Reading Picture Books with Children by Lambert

Activity

Play “Super Duper 1, 2, 3! Can you say this word with me?” with your child. (The rhyme is below.) You can use your child’s name, a word that might be new to them, or a difficult word to say, like, “RHINOCEROS.”

Books Presented

I'm in Charge by Jeanne Willis

I'm in Charge by Jeanne Willis

This romping, rhyming story from award-winning author Jeanne Willis is all about a little rhino who likes to make the rules! When Rhino finds a tree bursting with fruit, he isn’t about to share it with anyone — after all, he’s in charge around here! But it looks like things might be about to change. With brilliant illustrations from Jarvis, this hilarious toddler-tantrum tale is all about being bossy and learning to listen to others.

Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima

Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima

Born deep in the ocean, Kelp is not like the other narwhals and one day, when he spies a creature on land that looks like him, he learns why.

Little Narwhal, Not Alone by Tiffany Stone

Little Narwhal, Not Alone by Tiffany Stone

Little Narwhal, Not Alone is based on the true story of an unlikely friendship. A young narwhal, venturing too far from home, becomes lost and is adopted by a pod of beluga whales. Poetic language and playful illustrations take readers along on Narwhal’s unexpected and amazing journey. At the back, helpful facts about narwhals and belugas are included from a marine biologist.

There's a Unicorn in Your Book by Tom Fletcher

There's a Unicorn in Your Book by Tom Fletcher

There’s a unicorn in your book! But this unicorn doesn’t seem very happy… Can you help get rid of the worry gremlins and cheer this unicorn up?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Super Duper 1, 2, 3

Will you say this word with me? rhinoceros
Presenter:                                        Child & Presenter:
Say it! Rhinoceros.                         Rhinoceros.
Clap it! RHI-NO-CER-OS               (Child and presenter clap:
(Clap hands for each syllable.)        RHI-NO-CER-OS.)
Snap it! RHI-NO-CER-OS              (Child and presenter snap:
(Snap fingers for each syllable.)      RHI-NO-CER-OS.)
Tap it! RHI-NO-CER-OS                 (Child and presenter tap:
(Tap knees for each syllable.)          RHI-NO-CER-OS.)
Say it!                                              RHINOCEROS!

Unicorn, Unicorn

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

The Rhinoceros

(Tune: 10 Little Indians)
The rhinoceros moves like this and that
He’s terribly wide and he’s terribly fat
The ground underneath his feet gets worn
but on his snout, look at that horn!

Credit: Miss Mariah’s Library

If You’re a Uni- and You Know it

If you’re a uni- and you know it, shake your horn.
If you’re a uni- and you know it, shake your horn.
If you’re a uni- and you know it, then you really ought to show it.
If you’re a uni- and you know it, shake your horn.

…stomp your hooves (rhinoceros)
…swim around (narwhal)
…twitch your tail (unicorn)
…wallow in the mud (rhinoceros).

Two Baby Narwhals

Two baby narwhals swimming in the sea
One named Brett and the other named Bree
Swim away Brett, swim away Bree.
Come back Brett, Come back Bree. 

Crafts and Activities

U is for Unicorn coloring page

U is for Unicorn

Unicorn craft<br />

Rocking Unicorn Craft

Make a rocking unicorn

Additional Books

Perfectly Pegasus by Jessie Sima

Perfectly Pegasus by Jessie Sima

 
Nimbus has always lived among the clouds. She’s a pegasus, after all, and the sky is where she belongs. She is one of a kind. And when she wants a friend, all she has to do is look up—and talk to the stars. Only…they don’t really talk back. The clouds don’t, either. And sometimes, being the only pegasus can be a little…lonely? So she decides to find a fallen star to make a wish on—and wishes for friends who are just like her. Along the way she meets a Unicorn named Kelp, and a host of other creatures…who might just open her eyes to something other than what’s up in the sky.
We Are Going to Be Pals! by Mark Teague

We Are Going to Be Pals! by Mark Teague

A talkative cattle egret explains to a rhinoceros that in addition to having a symbiotic relationship, they also have a friendship built on communication, kindness, and a respect for boundaries.

Glitter by Stella J. Jones

Glitter by Stella J. Jones

Gloria the rhino loves glitter. She has glitter slippers and a glitter scooter, and she spreads her sparkles wherever she goes; here, there, and everywhere! The townsfolk, though, are tired of it. No more glitter, Gloria! they tell her. But soon, the entire town is covered in glitter. What will everyone think now

Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish

Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish

It’s not easy to fit in when you stand out. When Layla arrives for her first day of school at Unicornia, the school for unicorns, she realizes that she’s not like the other kids there. They’re all pastel colors and know the rules to Horn Ball and none of them come from the Woods like Layla does. Try as she might to make friends, Layla’s just . . . different. But when her class gets lost during a field trip to the Fiddle Dee Deep Forest, it’s up to Layla to step up and save the day.

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! HALLOWEEN!

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! HALLOWEEN!

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! HALLOWEEN!

Monsters, skeletons, cats, witches, and… wombats? Who would have known there are so many new books at the library for Halloween, including a great book about a worried witch who receives a wombat for her pet instead of a cat! Can you find something new that’s just for you this Halloween?

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

Halloween is a bewitching time of year, filled with costumes, candy, and creativity. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to foster a love for literacy in children of all ages. – https://unitedthroughreading.org/8-spook-tacular-literacy-ideas-and-activities-for-halloween/

Activity

Pumpkin Letter Hunt – Take advantage of the season’s most iconic symbol, the pumpkin, to teach your little ones their ABCs. Write letters on small paper pumpkins or use alphabet stickers and hide them around your home or yard. Encourage your child to find and identify the letters, helping them associate each letter with its corresponding sound.

Books Presented

Witch & Wombat by Ashley Belote

Witch & Wombat by Ashley Belote

Wilma, a young witch, cannot wait to get her very first cat! But when the pet store is fresh out of kittens, Wilma brings home. . . a wombat?! What a CAT-astrophe! A wombat is nothing like a cat, but maybe if Wilma puts cat ears on the little critter, no one will notice. … (Spoiler alert: they do.) This bright and fun picture book teaches young witches that our differences can be our strengths when we have an open mind!
Skelly's Halloween by David Martin.

Skelly's Halloween by David Martin

When a fall causes Skelly B. Skeleton to come apart on Halloween, his animal friends try to put him back together based on their own bodies.
The Scariest Kitten in the World by Kate Messner.

The Scariest Kitten in the World by Kate Messner

This laugh-out-loud picture book takes readers to a just-PURR-fect haunted house where they’ll meet a not-so-scary kitten and a collection of the cutest little critters anyone has ever seen
Why Did the Monster Cross the Road by R.L. Stine and Marc Brown.

Why Did the Monster Cross the Road? by R.L. Stine and Marc Brown

Why did the monster cross the road? To BITE someone on the other side! Turn scary to silly with this laugh-out-loud joke book. Hunny is little and Funny is big. And they are monster best friends! So when Hunny is feeling sad, Funny knows the perfect thing to cheer his friend up… jokes!

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

If You See a Monster

(tune: Mary Had a Little Lamb)
If you see a ______ monster, ______ monster,______ monster.
If you see a ______ monster, *wave your hand hello.

*…pat your knees like this.
… cover your eyes and hide.

Ten Black Kittens

Ten black kittens standing in a row
(Palms facing forward, fingers extended)
They bow their heads to the children so
(bend fingers forward and back)
They run to the left, they run to the right
(move fingers to alternate sides, wiggling fingers)
The stretch up tall with all their might
(stretch hands over head)
Along comes a dog, looking for some fun
(fingers of one hand resting on thumb, move hand towards other hand)
“Meow!” Away those kittens run!
(As you meow, open both hands with fingers extended, “run” hands behind back)

Credit: Jen in the Library

Boiling Hot!

Boiling hot, boiling hot
What will we put in the witch’s pot
Boiling hot, boiling hot
We’ll put some spiders* in the witch’s pot

*stinky socks, hair, muddy boots, etc. 

Credit: Kid’n’Kaboodle Childcare

The Skeleton Dance

Dem bones, dem bones,
dem dancing bones. (x3)
Doin’ the skeleton dance.

The foot bone’s connected to the leg bone.
The leg bone’s connected to the knee bone.
The knee bone’s connected to the thigh bone.
Doin’ the skeleton dance.

The thigh bone’s connected to the hip bone.
The hip bone’s connected to the backbone.
The back bone’s connected to the neck bone. Doin’ the skeleton dance.

Shake your hands to the left.
Shake your hands to the right.
Put your hands in the air.
Put your hands out of sight.

Shake your hands to the left.
Shake your hands to the .
Put your hands in the air.
Wiggle…, wiggle your knees.

Dem bones, dem bones,
dem dancing bones. (x3)
Doin’ the skeleton dance.

Credit: Super Simple

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page with books and a witch on a broomstick with a wombat.

Something New Just For You Halloween

Skeleton craft made from q-tips and black cardstock.

Q-Tip Skeleton

Make a skeleton out of q-tips.

Additional Books

The Crayons Trick or Treat by Drew Daywalt.

The Crayons Trick or Treat by Drew Daywalt

The Crayons are ready to celebrate Halloween, but they do not know what to say when they knock on the door.
A Haunted Ghost Tour in Idaho by Louise Martin.

A Haunted Ghost Tour in Idaho by Louise Martin

Experience a fa-BOO-lous Halloween with Little Ghost on a tour of all the landmarks you know and love in Idaho! Little Ghost is going on a spooky Halloween tour around Idaho, and you’re invited to ride along!
Brick or Treat by Matt Huntley

Brick or Treat by Matt Huntley

Do you dare to join a fearless trio of trick-or-treaters who visit the mysterious home of an eccentric scientist? Along with owls, pumpkins, and helpful robots, they discover that a little bravery and some LEGO creativity can make a frightfully fun night
Vampire Vacation by Laura Lavoie.

Vampire Vacation by Laura Lavoie

The last thing Fang wants is another vacation in Transylvania. He’s toured Dracula’s castle and the coffin museum enough for an eternal lifetime. Why can’t he spend the summer swimming and surfing like his other friends? When his parents refuse, Fang decides to convince them that fun at the beach is possible, even for a family of vampires

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: Octopus

Storytime: Octopus

Storytime: Octopus

“O” is for octopus! Did you know an octopus can fit through a hole the size of it’s eye? Or that they can navigate through mazes, solve problems, and take apart almost anything from a crab to a lock? They are considered one of the smartest species in the ocean! So, have fun with your child learning about these brilliant invertebrates!

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

Be sure to read factual books with your children. Follow their interests, whether a particular animal, in how things work , in trains, or anything that piques their curiosity. The information in nonfiction books introduces new vocabulary words, and we learn right along with our children. Supporting their curiosity goes a long way in encouraging a love of learning. Many children who are less interested in stories are interested in particular topics, trains, dinosaurs… or OCTOPUSES!

Activity

Select five factual books from the library on a variety of topics and describe each book to your child in one sentence. Let your child pick one and then read it together. Then find a storybook based on the topic and expand the learning by pointing out things learned from the factual book.

Books Presented

I Am an Octopus by Trisha Speed<br />
Shaskan

I Am an Octopus by Trisha Speed Shaskan

I live in a den and hunt my prey with venom. Zoom with me across the sea. I am a common octopus, and I have lots of things to show you!

The Octopus Escapes by Maile Meloy

The Octopus Escapes by Maile Meloy

An octopus is taken from his undersea home to live in an aquarium, but he soon tires of captive life.

Octopus Alone by Divya Srinivasan

Octopus Alone by Divya Srinivasan

Octopus leaves her cave in a lively reef because she is shy and the seahorses there find her fascinating, but when she finds a quieter, more peaceful spot she misses her home and friends.

Octopants and the Missing Pirate Underpants by Suzy Senior

Octopants and the Missing Pirate Underpants by Suzy Senior

Puffer Fish wakes up one morning to find that his pirate underwear has been taken from the clothesline! So Octopants the octopus offers to help look for them. They check Lobster’s Laundry, look through Mermaid’s hair, and even stop by Mussel’s Fitness Club, but the underwear isn’t anywhere … Then Shark appears and wants to join the group. But what’s that on her head?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Bubble, bubble… POP!

One red octopus
Swimming in the water,
Swimming in the water,
Swimming in the water.

One red octopus
Swimming in the water,
Bubble, bubble, bubble, bubble…POP!

Slippery Fish

Slippery fish, slippery fish, sliding through the water,
Slippery fish, slippery fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by an …

Octopus, octopus, squiggling in the water
Octopus, octopus, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Tuna fish, tuna fish, flashing in the water,
Tuna fish, tuna fish, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Great white shark, great white shark, lurking in the water,
Great white shark, great white shark, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!
Oh, no! It’s been eaten by a …

Humongous whale, humongous whale, spouting in the water,
Humongous whale, humongous whale,
Gulp! … Gulp! … Gulp! … BURP!
(Cover your mouth.) Excuse me!

Once I Saw an Octopus

Once I saw an octopus in the deep blue sea
I called, “Hey, Mr. Octopus, won’t you swim with me?”
Then out came his tentacles
So very long and straight…
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.

Credit: King County Library System

Crafts and Activities

Octopus coloring page

O is for Octopus

Octopus craft made from a toilet paper roll.

Toilet Roll Octopus Craft

Make an octopus from a toilet paper roll and yarn. Or you can use a paper cup.

Additional Books

The Octopuppy by Martin McKenna

The Octopuppy by Martin McKenna

Edgar wanted a pet dog, but what he got instead was a rather brilliant octopus named Jarvis.

How to Put an Octopus to Bed by Sherri Duskey Rinker

How to Put an Octopus to Bed by Sherri Duskey Rinker

When mommy octopus tells little Floyd that it is time for bed, he decides that his parents want help getting their baths and putting on their pajamas (not what Mommy-O meant)–soon all three are covered with water and bubbles, and his parents are so exhausted that they fall asleep before Floyd is in bed.

Gentle Giant Octopus by Karen Wallace

Gentle Giant Octopus by Karen Wallace

Describes the physical characteristics and behavior of a Giant Octopus and how she searches for a home at the bottom of the ocean, lays her eggs and protects them from predators until they can hatch.

Octopus Escapes Again! by Laurie Angus

Octopus Escapes Again! by Laurie Angus

Whether searching for its next meal or avoiding becoming a meal, an octopus is an underwater master through color camouflage, or by spewing a cloud of obscuring ink, or by sacrificing a limb, or squeezing its boneless body into or through unlikely spaces.

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: Owls

Storytime: Owls

Storytime: Owls

​Did you know that owls can turn their heads as far as 270 degrees, that their vision is long-sighted so they can’t see things clearly up-close, and that baby owls are called, “owlets?” Take some time, with your child, to learn about these beautiful birds of prey who have a unique and varied role in children’s books, both factual and fiction.

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

Be sure to read factual books with your children. Follow their interests, whether a particular animal, in how things work , in trains, or anything that piques their curiosity. The information in nonfiction books introduces new vocabulary words, and we learn right along with our children. Supporting their curiosity goes a long way in encouraging a love of learning. Many children who are less interested in stories are interested in particular topics, trains, dinosaurs… or OWLS!

Activity

Select five factual books from the library on a variety of topics and describe each book to your child in one sentence. Let your child pick one and then read it together. Then find a storybook based on the topic and expand the learning by pointing out things learned from the factual book.

Books Presented

Owls and Owlets (An Animal Family) by Gustavo Strigiformes

Owls and Owlets (An Animal Family) by Gustavo Strigiformes

Owls are amazing animals in their own right, but baby owlets are unbelievably cute! These bright-eyed creatures are great nocturnal hunters, stalking prey with their incredible eyesight. This charming book explores how they live their lives and survive in the trees. With vibrant full-color photographs and accessible text, this book brings young readers into the wild world of these feathered creatures, exploring how owlets become owls in an engaging introduction to the concept of life cycles.

Owl Babies by Martin Waddell

Owl Babies by Martin Waddell

Three owl babies whose mother has gone out in the night try to stay calm while she is gone.
Knight Owl by Christopher Denise

Knight Owl by Christopher Denise

After achieving his dream of becoming a knight, a small owl protects the castle from a hungry dragon.

Who is it, Whoodini? by Roman Yasiejko

Who is it, Whoodini? by Roman Yasiejko

Who is the big bird that crashed into a tree? Join two owls, Cahoots and Whoodini, as they fly down to their barnyard friends to investigate.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Owl Hokey Poke

 Tune: Hokey Pokey
Put you right wing in
Put your right wing out
Put your right wing in
and you flap it all about
You do the owl pokey
and you fly yourself around,
That’s what it’s all about!

…Left wing, right claw, left claw, beak ,whole-feathered self!

Credit: Westbank Library Kids Room Fall Songs – Owls

Five Little Hoot Owls

Five little hoot owls sitting in a tree
One flew away! How many do you see?
Four little hoot owls sitting in a tree
One flew away! How many do you see?
Three little hoot owls sitting in a tree
One flew away! How many do you see?
Two little hoot owls sitting in a tree
One flew away! How many do you see?
One little hoot owl sitting in a tree.
She flew away! Now there are no more to see.

Credit: Westbank Library Kids Rooms Fall Songs – Owls

Wide Eyed Owl

There’s a wide eyed owl (circles over eyes)
With a pointed nose (triangle nose)
2 pointed ears (use fingers for ears)
and claws for toes (wiggle fingers like toes)
he lives way up in the tree (point up to tree top)
and when he looks at you (point at kids)
he flaps his wings (use arms for wings, and flap)
and says whooo whooo (continue flapping wings)

Credit: Westbank Library Kids Room Fall Songs – Owls

Owl In The Tree

Owl, owl, where do you hide? 
Are you in the (color) tree? Let’s peek inside!
 

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page with the letter o and an owl.

O is for Owl

Baby owl craft for kids.

Owlet Craft

Make an easy owlet craft.

Additional Books

Owls by Gail Gibbons

Owls by Gail Gibbons

From the smallest, the elf owl, to the largest, the great gray owl, here is information about the 21 types that are believed to be living in North America. From egg to owlet to fierce bird of prey, here is an insightful look at these impressive creatures of the night.

I'm Not Scared! by Jonathan Allen

I'm Not Scared! by Jonathan Allen

When Baby Owl takes his stuffed Owly out for a walk in the moonlit woods, he insists that he is not afraid of the other animals that keep popping up and making them jump.
Bear's New Friend by Karma Wilson

Bear's New Friend by Karma Wilson

Bear and his friends persuade a bashful owl to play with them.
Little Owl's Love by Divya Srinivasan

Little Owl's Love by Divya Srinivasan

Little Owl glides along on a quiet night looking for things that make him happy, like shimmering stars, winking fireflies and, most of all, spending time with his good friends.

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...

Storytime: Opposites

Storytime: Opposites

Storytime: Opposites

Hot cold, fast slow, empty full, left right! “Understanding the concept of opposites is important as it helps a child to learn how to compare two different things and to develop a more concrete understanding of a specific concept (e.g. hard vs soft). Learning opposites also improves a child’s ability to describe things.” www.childdevelopment.com. So let’s have fun with opposites!

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

Using concept words with your children helps to expand their vocabulary. Children need a large vocabulary to be able to learn to read and, just as important, to understand what they read. We want them to learn not only ice is cold and fire is hot, but also that hot and cold are opposites. Concept words show relationships between things.

Activity

Sing, “The Grand Old Duke of York,” and do the actions indicated by the song. Or you can read a book together that introduces concepts such as size, opposites, etc.

Books Presented

Opposites by Robert Crowther.

Opposites by Robert Crowther

Happy or sad? Old or new? Empty or full? Pull a tab, and a bright green crocodile’s jaws go from shut to open, revealing a huge pink mouth lined with sharp white teeth. See that pretty little hummingbird? Flip a flap and a big long-necked ostrich takes its place. Now turn a wheel, and you’re in for a carnival ride, circling up and down. From noted novelty-book artist Robert Crowther comes a hands-on book that makes the concept of opposites crystal clear to even the youngest readers.

Dinosaur Roar! by Henrietta Stickland

Dinosaur Roar! by Henrietta Stickland

Dinosaurs of every shape and size race, roar, and stomp through this colorful book of opposites. And where are all these silly-looking creatures off to? A dinosaur picnic, of course! These prehistoric pranksters and the simple, playful rhymes that accompany them will delight children everywhere. Dinosaur Roar! is an entertaining way to introduce preschoolers to the concept of opposites.

The Hueys in What's the Opposite? by Oliver Jeffers

The Hueys in What's the Opposite? by Oliver Jeffers

Quirky egg-shaped creatures known as the Hueys explore the concept of opposites.
The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss.

The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss

A toe-tapper babies will love–the classic Seussian book about opposites: “Wet foot, dry foot. Low foot, high foot…”

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

This is Big, Big, Big

This is big, big, big. (Move arms out to side)
This is small, small, small. (Move arms back to center)
This is short, short, short. (Hold hands with palms facing each other)
This is tall, tall, tall. (Reach one hand above head)
This is fast, fast, fast. (Circle fists quickly)
This is slow, slow, slow. (Circle fists slowly)
This is yes, yes, yes. (Nod)
This is no, no, no. (Shake head)

Credit: Storytime Katie

Roly Poly

(Tune: “Are You Sleeping?”)
Roly poly, roly poly
Up, up, up,  up, up, up
Roly roly poly roly roly poly
down, down, down
down, down, down

Roly poly, roly poly
out, out, out, out, out, out
Roly roly poly, roly roly poly
in, in, in
in, in, in

Roly poly, roly poly
fast, fast, fast, fast, fast, fast
Roly roly poly, roly roly poly
slow, slow, slow
slow, slow, slow

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.

Two Little Blackbirds

Two little blackbirds sitting on a hill.
One named Jack and one named Jill.
Fly away Jack, fly away Jill.
Come back Jack, come back Jill.

Two little blackbirds flying in the sky.
One named Low and one named High…

Two little blackbirds sitting on a pole.
One named Fast and one named Slow…

Two little blackbirds sitting on a gate…
One named Early and one named Late…

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page with a fast bunny and a slow turtle.

Fast and Slow

Flying rocket craft using a string pulley.

Flying Rocket Craft

Use a string pulley to make your craft move up and down the paper. Use the rocket template or create your own and follow the steps for assembling the pulley system.

Additional Books

Good News, Bad News by Jeff Mack

Good News, Bad News by Jeff Mack

While on a picnic, Bunny and Mouse see everything that happens to them from opposite points of view–Bunny sees only the good, while Mouse sees only the bad.

Marta! Big & Small by Jen Arena

Marta! Big & Small by Jen Arena

In this story that incorporates Spanish words, Marta explores the world of opposites and animals.

Dot by Patricia Intriago

Dot by Patricia Intriago

Dots here, dots there, you can see dots everywhere! Some are loud, and some are quiet. Some are happy, and some are sad. Some dots even taste yummy, while others taste bad.

Graphic designer Patricia Intriago sets bold, circular shapes against a stark white background to emphasize opposite dot relationships.

Opposnakes by Salina Yoon

Opposnakes by Salina Yoon

Swing open the giant flaps over each adorable snake to reveal which extra-long opposnake is waiting for them. This book features simple opposites such as clean to dirty, quiet to loud, hot to cold, and a grand finale of one lonely snake becoming lots and lots of snakes having a party!

With its simple, graphically inspired illustrations, this book will delight children of all ages.

More Story Times

Story Time: A is for Armadillo

Sometimes, both children and adults may hesitate to engage with non-fiction books, finding them too challenging, boring, or uninteresting. However, non-fiction books play a crucial role in helping children connect with and understand the world around them, expand...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: ABCs

Let’s learn the ABCs! Did you know that babies are already learning to read? Through visual exposure to colorful books and alphabet toys, seeing letters repeatedly helps them become familiar with their shapes and forms. Pair that with a familiar song and rhyme, and...

Story Time: A is for Alligator

Did you know that alligators are big lizards that live in muddy water places like swamps and rivers? They can grow as large as a school bus! Alligators also have a strong tail that helps them swim really fast, almost as fast as a car. They have a special eye cover...

September Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Dive into tales, tunes, and tiny triumphs at our Early Literacy programs in the Community Room—tailored for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups! Story Time (ages 2–5 + adult) Tue 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM (Activity Room) |...

August Programs for All Ages

Teen Action CouncilThe Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the Library to serve teens. Ages 13-18 are invited to join us Wednesday, August 6 in the Community Room at 4 PM!Crafty Corner Join us for Crafty Corner, an informal meet-up...

Storytime: Purple

Grapes, lavender, eggplants, and purple crayons—oh, the fun things that are purple! They're all waiting in a book, ready for you to discover. Mix blue and red playdough to create your own purple, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Don't forget to try these...

Storytime: Green

Green is the color of grass, trees, and many leaves. It makes us think of nature, spring, and fresh things growing. Frogs, peas, and apples can be green too! Green is a calm and happy color that helps us feel peaceful and full of energy. It’s like a big hug from...

July Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

June Events for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Summer Reading is Here! You can sign up now for Summer Reading: Color Our World! With Beanstack you can sign up online, or you can visit us at the Library and track your reading on paper. Check out our Summer Reading page for our prize schedule and more details.Story...

May Kids ‘n’ Tween Programs

Books For Boys & Great Reads for GirlsMeet Princess Cimorene—a princess who refuses to be proper. She’s everything a princess shouldn’t be: headstrong, tomboyish, smart… And bored. So bored she runs away to live with Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons around!...