Kid and Tween STEAM: Paper Towel Experiments

Kid and Tween STEAM: Paper Towel Experiments

Create these cool paper towel drawings!

Things you will need include:

  • markers (Crayola works really well)
  • paper towels (thick is better)
  • a pan to hold water
  • water 

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

November Kid and Tween Activities

Story TimeJoin us this November for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! The theme for Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5) is The Letter U! Explore the magical world of "Uni"-horns, Umbrellas, Under the…, and something NEW, just for U... or should we say...

October 2023 Kid and Tween Activities

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

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...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

Kid + Tween JUNE Activities

SUMMER READING 2022- OCEANS OF POSSIBILITIES School is out and the sun is (mostly) shining... that means it is now SUMMER READING! Sign up at the booth in the front foyer. You can also sign up through the app Beanstack. 1st prizes: starts June 21st2nd prizes: starts...

Story Time: Elevator Escapades!

Story Time: Elevator Escapades!

Story Time: Elevator Escapades!

“There’s an alligator in the elevator! Ahhh!” Riding in an elevator can be a great counting activity for your child, but it’s even more fun when you and your child engage your imaginations and “guess” where you might end up or who you might meet on each floor. Try some of the songs below as you have fun pushing the buttons on an elevator, imaginary or real.

Join us live Tuesdays at 10:30 AM  – Online on Facebook

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

There are so many wonderful benefits to reading interactive stories with your kids. In addition to the entertainment you can get from them, they can make your reading time more productive, create cherished memories, and even help teach your kids to read.

- www.babiestobookworms.com

Activity

Next time, when your child feels too energized for reading, try and interactive book such as “Press Here” or “The Button Book,” and do the actions indicated in the books. This will make story time extra fun for your preschooler. Find more interactive books at this link.

Books Presented

Lift by Minh Lê

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.

Press Here by Hervé Tullet

Using no special effects other than the reader’s imagination, a series of dots multiplies, grows, or changes color by pressing, tilting, or blowing on the previous page.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Action: Elevator Song

Oh the city is great and the city is grand
There’s a whole lot of people
on a little piece of land
And we live way up on the 57th floor
and this is what we do when we go out the door.

We take the elevator up and the elevator down,
take the elevator up, take the elevator down
Take the elevator up and the elevator down
and we turn around.

 

Jbrary.com

Parachute Song: Let’s Go Riding on an Elevator

Let’s go riding on an elevator,
Elevator, elevator,
Let’s go riding on an elevator,
Come along with me!
(gather children at the edges of a parachute, and swish back and forth gently)
First floor, Second floor, Third floor, Fourth floor, Fifth floor,
(hold parachute near floor, then raise up in steps with each floor until high overhead)
And…. down-down-down-down-down.
(pull parachute down over heads of children as they duck under parachute)

-Kcls.org
 

There’s an Alligator in the Elevator

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

Alligator (clap clap) please push (clap clap)
Number (clap clap) one.
I’m going up to the first floor.
Would you care to join me for some fun?

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

Alligator (clap clap) please push (clap clap)
Number (clap clap) two.
I’m going up to the second floor.
Gee, I’d like to make friends with you.

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

Alligator (clap clap) please push (clap clap)
Number (clap clap) three.
I’m going up to the third floor.
Would you care to have some lunch with me?

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

Alligator (clap clap) please push (clap clap)
Number (clap clap) four.
I’m going up to the fourth floor.
Tell me what are your big teeth for?

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

Alligator (clap clap) please push (clap clap)
Number (clap clap) five.
I’m going up to the fifth floor.
And I’d like to make it there alive.

There’s an alligator in the elevator.
I can’t believe what I see.
There’s an alligator in the elevator
And it’s making eyes at me.

– Rick Charette

Crafts and Activities

Coloring Page

Print out this coloring page!

Try this craft from Toddler Approved - or pick up our ready-made kit today.

Additional Books

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!

Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold

A young girl dreams of flying above her Harlem home, claiming all she sees for herself and her family. Based on the author’s quilt painting of the same name.

Little Elephant, Big City by Mike Curato

Elliot the little elephant has a hard time with a lot of things in the city he loves until he meets Mouse, who is even smaller–and hungrier.

Curious George in the Big City by Margret and H. A. Rey

When they go to the city to see the sights, Curious George gets separated from his friend and has many adventures before they are reunited.

More Story Times

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...

Storytime: W is for Walking Together

Going on a walk with your child not only develops his gross motor skills, but also creates a break from the techno-bombardments we experience every day. It heightens senses and allows for exploration. So, put on those walking shoes and head out the door for an...

Storytime: W is for Working Together

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Let’s work together to create a happy, healthy, carefree childhood for every child. Raising children isn’t easy, but doing it as a team is good for you and your child. When both parents or caregivers involve the child in...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Storytime: March is for Eric Carle

Eric Carle is one of the most celebrated authors/illustrators in the world. His picture book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, has been translated into more than 66 languages and sold more than 50 million copies. He believes “that children are naturally creative and eager...

Storytime: February Something New Just for You

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...

Storytime: V is for Violins and Violins play Music

V is for Violins! The violin is a string instrument. It has a wooden body and four tight strings, the musical sounds come from the vibrations of those strings. Vibrations can be made by plucking the strings or using a bow. Not all instruments have strings but all of...

Storytime: V is for Valentine’s

V is for Valentine’s! Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love, but that doesn’t mean it is all mushy stuff. It is just as important to celebrate the love shown to children from caring adults and between friends. You don’t have to celebrate with gifts, kind words...

Storytime: V is for Veggies

Is it a vegetable or a fruit? Either way, vegetables are delicious, healthy, and fun to talk about with your child. Try asking open-ended questions with her about her favorite vegetables, where they come from, and their differences and similarities in taste. Or...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

Late March Teen Activities

Late March Teen Activities

Late March Teen Activities

Teen Anime Club: My Hero Academia movie 

Monday, March 15 at 4:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

 

Teen action council have a say in what goes on at the library for teens

Teen Take N’ Go: Mosaic Stash Box

Our second teen craft take n’ go kit for March will be mosaic stash boxes, available starting Thursday, March 18th. Instructions will be available on our website and our YouTube channel.

Madison BiblioManiacs: Manga and Graphic Novels

Monday March 22nd, 4:30-5:30 pm in the Community Room.

Grab a graphic novel or manga, join our month-long Discord chat, and then meet up for a Manga Mash with Asian treats.

Madison BiblioManiacs: Manga and Graphic Novels

Adventures in Bywater

Our monthly D&D one-offs take place in the town of Bywater. Bywater rarely sees travelers of any sort, but the valley offers plenty of adventure to the Daring and Bold. From the Kobold Caverns in the South, to the Troll filled mountains of the east. Those ready to seek their fortune may well enough find it in Bywater.

Sign up or RSVP for this month’s session of Teen Dungeons and Dragons! We’re playing Wednesday, March 24th at 4:00 p.m. via Zoom. You can join us for fun tidbits and discussion during the month via Discord.

May Programs for All Ages

Miss Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks For ParentsAre you ready to make reading a fun adventure for your child this summer? Join us for Miss. Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks for Parents class! Discover simple, game-like reading activities that will help strengthen...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

Holiday Closures 2023

The Library will be closed Saturday - Tuesday, Dec. 23 - 26 for Christmas & Saturday - Monday, Dec. 30 - Jan. 1 for the New Year   No items are due when the Library is closed. Thank You! Have a safe and happy holidays!

Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas is not just a day, it's a feeling! It's the joy that fills our hearts, the sparkle in our eyes, and the warmth we share with our family and friends. This year, everyone is invited to Madison Library District’s 14th Annual Christmas Extravaganza, a Christmas...

November Kid and Tween Activities

Story TimeJoin us this November for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! The theme for Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5) is The Letter U! Explore the magical world of "Uni"-horns, Umbrellas, Under the…, and something NEW, just for U... or should we say...

October 2023 Kid and Tween Activities

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

Closed March 26th for Staff Development Day

Closed March 26th for Staff Development Day

Closed March 26th for Staff Development Day

The library will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 for Veteran's Day. No items are due. Thank you.

We’ll be closed Friday, March 26th for Staff Development Day. No items will be due. As always, the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

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...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Teen Craft: Keyring Dreamcatchers

Teen Craft: Keyring Dreamcatchers

Teen Craft: Keyring Dreamcatchers

Ashley from the Teen Action Council teaches us how to make keyring dream catchers! You will need the following supplies:

  • keyring
  • string
  • scissors
  • bead
  • toothpick
  • needle (optional)

Teen Activities February 2024

On the Same Page is back and this year we're reading "Holes" by Louis Sachar! Join our big community read and pick up your free-to-keep kick-off kit from the circulation desk today!  Please, limit 1 book per household. Teen Crafts Teens 12-18! Bring your friends and...

January Teen Activities

Idaho Teen Reading ChallengeAre you a bookworm between the ages of 12-18 looking for an exciting reading challenge? Look no further! Get ready to dive into an adventure from October 2023 to April 2024 with the Idaho Teen Reading Challenge, designed to engage readers...

Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas is not just a day, it's a feeling! It's the joy that fills our hearts, the sparkle in our eyes, and the warmth we share with our family and friends. This year, everyone is invited to Madison Library District’s 14th Annual Christmas Extravaganza, a Christmas...

November Teen Activities

Idaho Teen Reading ChallengeAre you a bookworm between the ages of 12-18 looking for an exciting reading challenge? Look no further! Get ready to dive into an adventure from October 2023 to April 2024 with the Idaho Teen Reading Challenge, designed to engage readers...

October 2023 Teen Activities

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual Convention Teens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

Teen Activities June 2023

TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans and come up with ways for the library to help teens. Have a say in what happens at your library! June 7, 2023 at 4 P.M. in the Community Room. For ages 12-18. TEEN SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY Trivia,...

APRIL Teen Activities

TEEN ANIME CLUB  Come and watch Ouran High School Host Club. There will also be a fun TEA PARTY! Wednesday April 13th. 4:30pm, Community Room. For ages 12-18. YOUNG LEAGUE OF WRITERS How can you incorporate HUMOR and COMEDY into your writing? Discuss with others at...

TEEN CRAFT: Art Deco Duct Tape Art

Art Deco is a term used for a specific style of design that was popular in the 1920's. Create your own work of art using Art Deco as inspiration. Materials needed: Mat board Template Two tones of duct tape (to create contrast) Clear tape (to tape on template) Exacto...

Book Babies: Let’s Go to the Zoo!

Book Babies: Let’s Go to the Zoo!

Book Babies: Let’s Go to the Zoo!

You only have to go as far as a book to visit the zoo with your baby or toddler! When you read a book with your child, make animals noises and sing nursery rhymes about the animals you find in your “zoo” book . You can find some of these books and rhymes below.

Join us live Wednesdays at 10:00 AM  – Online on Facebook

Ages 2-5

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

Watching a light dance across the ceiling, walls, and toys strengthens your baby’s ability to visually track objects. Seeing the light disappear and reappear over and over will delight her.

- "Baby Play" by Dr. Wendy S. Masi & Dr. Roni Cohen Leiderman

Activity

Stretch a brightly colored tissue paper or a sheer scarf across a flashlight and attach firmly with tape or a rubber band. Then play the colored circle across the ceiling, baby’s toys, and on the wall. Try turning the light on and off quickly, drawing shapes with the beam, or moving the light slowly back and forth bewtween two objects. Talk as you play, saying, “Where did the light go?” and “Oh my gosh, there it is!” and “It’s on the ball.”

- "Baby Play" by Dr. Wendy S. Masi & Dr. Roni Cohen Leiderman

Books Presented

Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell

Answering a child’s request, the zoo keeps sending a wide assortment of animals until they find the perfect pet. On board pages.

Peek-A-Boo Zoo! by Jane Cabrera

Join in the fun with curious Lemur and see who’s hiding behind the cut-out holes. A pair of eyes peeks through each page as Lemur finds out who’s hiding, including a panda, a parrot, a kangaroo, and a monkey.

I Thought I Saw an Elephant! by Lydia Nichols

Push and pull the sliders to find the elephant hiding in the pond, on the slide, and in the tree house.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

You Can Hear the Lions Roaring at the Zoo

(to the tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It”)

You can hear the lions roaring at the zoo, ROAR! ROAR!
You can hear the lions roaring at the zoo, ROAR! ROAR!
You can hear the lions roaring, you can hear the lions roaring
You can hear the lions roaring at the zoo! ROAR! ROAR!

(Elephants trumpeting, zebra braying, monkey eeking)

-Pasadena-library.net

Going to Kentucky

Oh, we’re going to Kentucky, we’re going to the zoo,
To see the baby animals and watch what they can do.
Oh shake it, shake it, shake it,
Shake it if you can.
Shake it like a milkshake,
And do the best you can!
Oh, wobble to the bottom, wobble to the top,
And turn around and turn around until it’s time stop!

– Libraryvillage.blogspot.com 

Three Little Monkeys

Three little monkeys swinging from the tree,
(hold up three fingers)
Teasing Mr. Crocodile, “Can’t catch me!”
(wag index finger)
Along came Mr. Crocodile, quiet as can be,
(slowly swim one hand over)
And SNAPPED that monkey right out of that tree!
(clap hands together on “snapped”)
Two little monkeys…
One little monkey…
No little monkeys swinging from the tree,
I’d better watch out or he might catch me!

– Libraryvillage.blogspot.com

We Wiggle and Wiggle and Stop!

We wiggle and wiggle and stop
We wiggle and wiggle and stop
We wiggle and wiggle and wiggle and wiggle
and wiggle and wiggle and stop

Can work with egg shakers: shake, pat, roll.

– Alsc.ala.org

Five Little Monkeys

Additional Books

Roar, Roar, Baby! by Karen Katz

Young readers are invited to lift flaps to reveal such zoo animals as giraffes, hippos, pandas, and tigers.

Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann

An unobservant zookeeper is followed home by all the animals he thinks he has left behind in the zoo.

1-2-3 ZooBorns by Andrew Bleiman

Attention, animal lovers! It’s time to count along with a whole new crew of adorable zoo babies. Featuring irresistible animal photos, bouncy text, and a fact-filled glossary, this just might be the cutest counting book ever to hit the shelves!

Animal Antics ABC! by Jade Maitre

Learn your ABCs with Storyberries’ free alphabet book, filled with animal antics!

More Book Babies

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...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Friends Forever

Let’s make friends! Toddlers and infants, despite their stage of individual play, can begin the process of making friends. Babies observe facial expressions. Toddlers begin learning how to share. All of these stages lead to social and emotional growth, so have fun...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Let’s Watch the Weather Together!

Watching the weather change with the seasons can be fun for baby and you! When getting ready in the morning, talk about the weather and why baby is wearing warm pants and boots or a cool sun shirt, shorts and sandals. You can also associate the seasons to colors such...

Story Time: Elephantastic Elephants!

Story Time: Elephantastic Elephants!

Story Time: Elephantastic Elephants!

“E” is for elephant! Elephants are one of the most amazing creatures in the animal kingdom. They are so strong enough to lift 700 pounds, yet they are so gentle they can pick up a tiny leaf without crumpling it. Children love elephants. They are big and have large floppy ears. Try taking this opportunity to learn more about these gentle giants with your child with some of the activities and books below.

Join us live Tuesdays at 10:30 AM  – Online on Facebook

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Having children act out stories introduces them to the theater arts. Because dramatic play incorporates a variety of senses, it allows children to experience a story in an immediate way and helps them internalize the story.

- Lambert

Activity

Read “Can Somebody Please Scratch My Back?” by Jory John or another book that will be easy to act out. Then have your child portray the elephant while you portray all the others animals and retell the story. Then try switching roles and see the laughter!

- Adapted from Lambert

Books Presented

Elephants by Kate Riggs

A basic exploration of the appearance, behavior, and habitat of elephants, Earth’s biggest land animals. Also included is a story from folklore explaining why elephants’ trunks are so long.

Can Somebody Please Scratch My Back? by Jory John

Elephant has a massive itch that no one can scratch, so Elephant is forced to help himself–or so he thinks.

I Broke My Trunk! by Mo Willems

Gerald the elephant tells his best friend Piggie a long, crazy story about how he broke his trunk.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Elephant Walk

Right foot, left foot, see me go (step with one foot, then other, sway side to side)

I am gray and big and slow (hold hands out to side on the word “big”)

Right foot, left foot, see me go (step with one foot, then other, sway side to side)

I come walking down the street (keep feet stomping)

With my trunk and four big feet. (Make arm look like a trunk from nose).

 

Adapted from Jeninthelibrary.com

Flannel Board: Five Elephants in the Bathtub

1 elephant in the bathtub
going for a swim.
Knock, knock (clap hands for each knock)
Splash, splash (pat lap for each splash)
Come on in! (Wave hand invitingly)

2 elephants in the bathtub
going for a swim.
Knock, knock (clap hands for each knock)
Splash, splash (pat lap for each splash)
Come on in! (Wave hand invitingly)

3 elephants in the bathtub
going for a swim.
Knock, knock (clap hands for each knock)
Splash, splash (pat lap for each splash)
Come on in! (Wave hand invitingly)

4 elephants in the bathtub
going for a swim.
Knock, knock (clap hands for each knock)
Splash, splash (pat lap for each splash)
Come on in! (Wave hand invitingly)

5 elephants in the bathtub
going for a swim.
Knock, knock (clap hands for each knock)
Splash, splash (pat lap for each splash)
And they all fell in! (Knock all the elephants and tub off the flannelboard!)

– Jeninthelibrary.com

Two Elephants

Two little elephants, standing in a row.
Two little trunks, waving hello.
“Oh,” said an elephant.
“It’s time to go.”
One little elephant, standing in a row.
One little trunk, waving hello.
“Hey,” said the elephant.
“Where did he go?”

-Barbertonlibrary.org
 

Crafts and Activities

Coloring Page

Print out this coloring page!

Try this craft from Heidi Songs - or pick up our ready-made kit today.

Additional Books

I Dream of an Elephant by Ami Rubinger

Elephants of many colorful shades are described in couplets that invite the reader to complete the rhyme using color-themed clues.

Near or Far: Where's Eddie? by Daniel Nunn

Books in the Hide and Seek series provide an entertaining introduction to some of the words that tell us where things are. This book looks at “Near” and “Far”, and features an animal character called Eddie the Elephant who is playing hide-and-seek. 

Elephant's Story by Tracey Campbell Pearson

Elephant finds a book and then sneezes, mixing up all the letters.

The Elephant Who Cried Mouse! by Jade Maitre

Ronald the Elephant loves to frighten his family by calling “MOUSE!”. But what happens when they stop believing him?

More Story Times

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...

Storytime: W is for Walking Together

Going on a walk with your child not only develops his gross motor skills, but also creates a break from the techno-bombardments we experience every day. It heightens senses and allows for exploration. So, put on those walking shoes and head out the door for an...

Storytime: W is for Working Together

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Let’s work together to create a happy, healthy, carefree childhood for every child. Raising children isn’t easy, but doing it as a team is good for you and your child. When both parents or caregivers involve the child in...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Storytime: March is for Eric Carle

Eric Carle is one of the most celebrated authors/illustrators in the world. His picture book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, has been translated into more than 66 languages and sold more than 50 million copies. He believes “that children are naturally creative and eager...

Storytime: February Something New Just for You

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...

Storytime: V is for Violins and Violins play Music

V is for Violins! The violin is a string instrument. It has a wooden body and four tight strings, the musical sounds come from the vibrations of those strings. Vibrations can be made by plucking the strings or using a bow. Not all instruments have strings but all of...

Storytime: V is for Valentine’s

V is for Valentine’s! Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love, but that doesn’t mean it is all mushy stuff. It is just as important to celebrate the love shown to children from caring adults and between friends. You don’t have to celebrate with gifts, kind words...

Storytime: V is for Veggies

Is it a vegetable or a fruit? Either way, vegetables are delicious, healthy, and fun to talk about with your child. Try asking open-ended questions with her about her favorite vegetables, where they come from, and their differences and similarities in taste. Or...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

Early March Teen Activities

Early March Teen Activities

Early March Teen Activities

Monday, March 1st at 4:00 p.m. in the Community Room.
 
Have a say in what goes on at the library for teens.
Teen action council have a say in what goes on at the library for teens
Shower Moments and Other Muses

Monday, March 8th at 4:30 in the Community Room

This month we will watch a webinar from www.teenauthorbootcamp.net called “Shower Moments and Other Muses: Finding Inspiration in a Crazy World with Shelly X. Leonn.” We will also do group critiques.

Join our teen Discord server to chat about writing and more with other teens throughout the month.

Our first teen craft take n’ go kit for March will be keyring dream catchers, available starting Thursday, March 4th. Instructions will be available on our website and our YouTube channel.

May Programs for All Ages

Miss Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks For ParentsAre you ready to make reading a fun adventure for your child this summer? Join us for Miss. Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks for Parents class! Discover simple, game-like reading activities that will help strengthen...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

Holiday Closures 2023

The Library will be closed Saturday - Tuesday, Dec. 23 - 26 for Christmas & Saturday - Monday, Dec. 30 - Jan. 1 for the New Year   No items are due when the Library is closed. Thank You! Have a safe and happy holidays!

Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas is not just a day, it's a feeling! It's the joy that fills our hearts, the sparkle in our eyes, and the warmth we share with our family and friends. This year, everyone is invited to Madison Library District’s 14th Annual Christmas Extravaganza, a Christmas...

November Kid and Tween Activities

Story TimeJoin us this November for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! The theme for Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5) is The Letter U! Explore the magical world of "Uni"-horns, Umbrellas, Under the…, and something NEW, just for U... or should we say...

October 2023 Kid and Tween Activities

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

March Adult Activities

March Adult Activities

March Adult Activities

Come join your fellow community members on Thursday, March 18th at 6:30 p.m. for a lively discussion of both classic works and modern masterpieces. 

 

Our book for March is Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel:

 

An audacious, darkly glittering novel set in the eerie days of civilization’s collapse, Station Eleven tells the spellbinding story of a Hollywood star, his would-be savior, and a nomadic group of actors roaming the scattered outposts of the Great Lakes region, risking everything for art and humanity.

Reading copies are available to check out at the Circulation Desk.

Adult Makers: Diamond Painting

Explore an addictive new hobby. Kits will be available at the circulation desk beginning March 15 with an instructional video Friday, March 19th through our website and/or YouTube channel.

May Programs for All Ages

Miss Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks For ParentsAre you ready to make reading a fun adventure for your child this summer? Join us for Miss. Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks for Parents class! Discover simple, game-like reading activities that will help strengthen...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

Holiday Closures 2023

The Library will be closed Saturday - Tuesday, Dec. 23 - 26 for Christmas & Saturday - Monday, Dec. 30 - Jan. 1 for the New Year   No items are due when the Library is closed. Thank You! Have a safe and happy holidays!

Christmas Extravaganza!

Christmas is not just a day, it's a feeling! It's the joy that fills our hearts, the sparkle in our eyes, and the warmth we share with our family and friends. This year, everyone is invited to Madison Library District’s 14th Annual Christmas Extravaganza, a Christmas...

November Kid and Tween Activities

Story TimeJoin us this November for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! The theme for Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5) is The Letter U! Explore the magical world of "Uni"-horns, Umbrellas, Under the…, and something NEW, just for U... or should we say...

October 2023 Kid and Tween Activities

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

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