Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Dancing and creating music provide an outlet for children to express themselves creatively. It encourages them to invent their moves, compose their songs, and unleash their imagination, fostering both creativity and self-confidence.” The Learning Center

 

Activity

Select a favorite song or piece of music from your youth and share it with your child as you move and dance to the rhythm. You can choose to add simple props or noise makers like socks, scarves, wooden spoons, etc. to your dance.

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Wally Mammoth: The Sled Race by Corey R. Tabor

Wally Mammoth: The Sled Race by Corey R. Tabor

Wolf wants to win the sled race. He loves winning. Otto wants to win, too. Wally Mammoth is … not so sure. A giggle-inducing, hardcover picture book about friendship that is perfect for emerging readers by the multiple Geisel Award-winning Corey R. Tabor. For fans of Mo Willems and Ben Clanton. Wally Mammoth lives in the Ice Age, where his huge heart warms even the coldest of days. And it has to be cold to have a sled race! Wally and his friends Otto the great auk and Wolf the (you guessed it!) gray wolf are all hot cocoa-ed up and ready to compete. Otto and Wolf both really want to win, but sweet Wally is happy as long as everyone has fun. Naturally, the competition goes downhill quickly. If the three friends careen toward the finish line in a giant snowball, how will they determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place? It doesn’t matter — there will be cupcakes for everyone regardless.

Book cover for Tacky and the Winter Games by Helen Lester

Tacky and the Winter Games by Helen Lester

Tacky and his fellow penguins on Team Nice Icy Land train hard for the Winter Games, but Tacky‘s antics make their chances of winning a medal seem slim.
Book cover for Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold

Waiting for Snow by Marsha Diane Arnold

Badger cannot wait one more minute for it to snow. When his friend Hedgehog explains that everything comes in its time, Badger is unconvinced and impatient as ever. But Badger’s friends have a few tricks up their sleeves to try and get the snow’s attention and distract their pal in the meantime

Book cover for Max and Marla by Alexandra Boiger

Max and Marla by Alexandra Boiger

Max and Marla are best friends. And aspiring Olympians! With their eyes on the prize, they know exactly what it’ll take to reach sledding success: preparation, practice and perseverance

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Here’s a Hill

Here’s a hill (left side up, right side down)
And here’s a hill (right side up, left side down)
All covered with snow (scarf on head)
I’ll put on my coat, (scarf on back)
And jump on my sled (pull scarf in front)
And ZOOM, down the hill I will go! 
(toss scarf in air)

Adapted from Storytime Katie

Bumpin’ Up and Down

Bumpin’ up and down 
in my big  bobsled… x3
We’re having so much fun!

Snow’s coming down… 
Turning to the left…
Turning to the right…
Turning to the left…
Waving to my friends…

Adapted from Jbrary

Dancing Snowflakes

(tune of Frère Jacques)
Dancing snowflakes,
Dancing snowflakes,
In the sky, in the sky
Whirling twirling snowflakes,
Whirling twirling snowflakes
See them fly, see them fly!

Adapted from Storytime with Ms. Emily Library

Four Bobsledders Sitting in a Row

Four bobsledders sitting in a row, (hold up four finger and stretch scarf in a horizontal line)
Each in a uniform from head to toe. (move scarf to vertical line)

Push off hard! 1, 2, 3, 4! (Pretend to push off hard, counting on fingers)
Now we’re zooming! And we’d love some more! (Wiggle body back and forth)

Lean to the left (Lean body to the left)
Lean to the right (Lean body to the right)
Hold on tight with all your might! ((Wrap scarf around your hands and squeeze))

Down, down, down, the icy track (Roll scarf down and down)
Zig and zoom and don’t look back! (Move scarf in a zigzag motion in front of you)

Faster, faster, what a blast! (Shake scarf up and down very fast)
Coming soon! We’re going fast! (Hold scarf in front of you and roll it quickly)

Whoa! Slow down now, the race is done! (Let scarf fall slowly to the ground)
Cross the line! We’’re #1! (Toss scarf up in the air and catch it!)

Crafts and Activities

A coloring page featuring three people in a bobsleigh.

Bobsleigh Coloring Page

 

 

Make a sledding craft from a paper plate.

Sledding Mobile

Additional Books

Book cover for Mr. Putter & Tabby Hit the Slope by Cynthia Rylant

Mr. Putter & Tabby Hit the Slope by Cynthia Rylant

Mr. Putter and his fine cat, Tabby, and Mrs. Teaberry and her good dog, Zeke, head for the sledding slope for the wildest ride ever. Maybe winter is not so slow after all!

Book cover for Red Sled by Lita Judge

Red Sled by Lita Judge

At night, a host of woodland creatures plays with a child’s red sled.
Book cover for The Reader by Amy Hest

The Reader by Amy Hest

A boy and his dog hike to the top of a very tall, snowy hill where they play, enjoy a snack, and then share their favorite book before sledding home.
Book cover for A Sled for Gabo by Emma Otheguy

A Sled for Gabo by Emma Otheguy

Gabo, shy with other children and having no sled or winter clothing, yearns to go sledding and his neighbor’s granddaughter, Isa, helps him find a way.

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about:

  • How to win and lose gracefully

  • Encouraging all participants

  • Congratulating the winner

  • The value of cooperation and teamwork

  • Feeling proud of a well-planned effort

Watching winter sports together can also be a great way to start the conversation.

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Zoom, Zoom Zoom,” is a favorite song/game for many children. This exciting rhyme let’s the children count down to a lift-off at zero. Try this new winter version, “Snowflakes in the Sky,” where children can sing the same melody, but count up to ten. This rhyme is a great skill-builder for understanding sequencing, the order in which something takes place.

 

Activity

Make ten snowflakes with your child from paper or cupcake wrappers. Then, sing “Snowflakes in the Sky,” and count the snowflakes together at the end of the song. If you’d like use your snowflakes multiple times, you can “laminate” them with clear packing tape!

 

Books Presented

Book cover for Snowman Paul at the Winter Olympics by Yossi Lapid

Snowman Paul at the Winter Olympics by Yossi Lapid

Can a humble snowman compete on the world’s biggest Olympic stage? Snowman Paul is determined to find out.

When Dan and Snowman Paul arrive at the Winter Olympics, Paul can’t resist the thrill of competition. Faster than a swish of skis, he jumps into event after event—ski jumping, snowboarding, figure skating, and more! Paul dazzles the crowds, amazes the judges, and celebrates his victories.
But soon, a big question hangs in the icy air: Is Paul competing fairly—or is he getting a little unexpected help from his friends?

In this humorous, heartwarming, and beautifully rhymed adventure, children follow Dan and Paul as they explore timeless lessons about honesty, friendship, fair play, and what it truly means to win with integrity.

Book cover for Flurry, Float, and Fly!: The Story of a Snowstorm by Laura Purdie Salas

Flurry, Float, and Fly!: The Story of a Snowstorm by Laura Purdie Salas

This illustrated children’s book explores the science of snow through poetic text and visual art. It describes how cold air and moisture interact to form snowflakes, explains the process of snow crystal formation, and conveys the wonder of winter weather. An author’s note provides additional scientific context, making the book suitable for classroom lessons on weather, seasons, and natural phenomena.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Building a Snowman

Tune: The More We Get Together
Can you help me build a snowman,
A snowman, a snowman?
Can you help me build a snowman?
He’s missing his _______!
 (middle, head, scarf, hat, eyes, and so on)

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

Dancing snowflakes

(tune of Frère Jacques)
Dancing snowflakes,
Dancing snowflakes,
In the sky, in the sky
Whirling twirling snowflakes,
Whirling twirling snowflakes
See them fly, see them fly!

Adapted from: Storytime with Ms. Emily Library

Snowflakes in the Sky

(tune: Zoom, Zoom Zoom)
Fly, fly fly there’s snowflakes in the sky.
Fly, fly fly there’s snowflakes in the sky.
If you want to catch them all, count the snowflakes as they fall.
Fly, fly fly there’s snowflakes in the sky.
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10

Come Under My Umbrella

(tune of The More We Get Together)
Come under my umbrella, umbrella, umbrella
Come under my umbrella, it’s starting to snow
There’s snowflakes and flurries and wind and ice
Come under my umbrella it’s starting to snow!

Adapted from King County Library System

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a young child running in the snow.

Snow Coloring Page

 

 

Make a snowstorm in a sandwich bag with cut paper and a straw.

Blizzard in a Bag

Additional Books

Book cover for It's a Big World, Little Pig! by Kristi Yamaguchi

It's a Big World, Little Pig! by Kristi Yamaguchi

Poppy’s big dreams lead her to Paris for the world games ice skating championship. Nervous but ever courageous and supported by her family she embarks upon the adventure head-on. Poppy meets a snowboarding panda, a Maltese who skies, and two fellow skaters, a crane and a Kangaroo. She begins to realize that although these animals look different, act different, and are from different places, they are all the same at heart.

Book cover for Froggy Builds a Snowman by Jonathan London

Froggy Builds a Snowman by Jonathan London

 
Froggy is very excited about his first Winter Carnival, and even though Mr. Mugwort has the day carefully planned the time for building a special snowman finally arrives.
Book cover for Just One Flake by Travis Jonker

Just One Flake by Travis Jonker

Determined to catch a perfect snowflake, Liam sticks out his tongue and tries a number of tricks, all to no avail, but after giving it one last shot, he grabs one in an unexpected way.
Book cover for Curious About Snow by Gina Shaw

Curious About Snow by Gina Shaw

 
Learn about snow–how snowflakes are formed, why they fall, if each snowflake is really unique, and other facts. Also learn about Wilson A. Bentley, the first person to photograph an individual snowflake.

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds confidence in a young reader. Also, recently published non-fiction books are full of illustrations and pictures which can appeal to many children. See you at the library!

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Children with print awareness understand that print has different functions; such as, menus list food choices, a book tells a story, a sign can point to a favorite restaurant or warn of danger. Understanding that letters are symbols that create words and that words represent things will take time and practice. – Idaho Commission for Libraries

Activity

Model for your child how to hold a book and that you read a sentence from left to right. Running your finger under the words as you read shows them to read from the top to the bottom of the page, then play the Grocery List Game! Write a simple shopping list with words and pictures. Have your child find items at the store that match the words on your list.

Books Presented

Book cover for Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

When a bus driver takes a break from his route, a very unlikely volunteer springs up to take his place—a pigeon! But you’ve never met one like this before.
Book cover for If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone by Gideon Sterer

If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone by Gideon Sterer

A love letter to making friends from unexpected places, If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone is silly, wise, and surprising all at once. If you make a call from a banana phone, who will answer? What will you talk about? Will you share secrets or ask questions? No one knows what will happen, really. This very silly story is full of the joy and wisdom that comes from making new friends from unexpected places. Go ahead, pick up a banana and make a call. You’ll be glad you did.
Book cover for If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone by Gideon Sterer

A Quick Trip to the Store by Sam Wedelich

When her family runs out of bananas, a young girl goes on a quick trip to the grocery store, and while Mom is distracted, the boring banana run turns into a wild adventure through the aisles.

Book cover for So Rude!: Animals Behaving Badly by Jessica Fries-Gaither

So Rude!: Animals Behaving Badly by Jessica Fries-Gaither

Grownups say, “Be on your best behavior.” But in the animal world, rudeness sometimes rules the day! Scarlet kingsnakes lie; they pretend to be venomous coral snakes to scare off predators. And hippos make a mess; they spray waste to defend their territories. For these animals and many others, being rude can be a matter of survival. Author and science educator Jessica Fries-Gaither introduces seven human behavior rules and the animals that break them!

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Bread and Butter

Bread and butter, bananas and jam,
Let’s tap our sticks as nice as we can!
Verses: quick, slow, quiet, loud

Source: Jbrary

The Wheels on the Bus

The wheels on the bus go round and round,
Round and round, round and round,
The wheels on the bus go round and round,
All through the town.

The money on the bus goes clank, clank, clank…
The wipers on the bus go swish, swish, swish…
The driver on the bus says, “Move on back”…
The people on the bus go up and down…
The babies on the bus go waa, waa, waa…
The parents on the bus go shh, shh, shh…

Source: Jbrary

This is the Way We Tap Our Sticks

This is the way we tap our sticks,
tap
our sticks, tap our sticks,
This is the way we tap our sticks,
so
early in the morning.
(Tap sticks to the beat while singing.)

This is the way we scrape our sticks…
This is the way we hammer our sticks…
This is the way we drum our sticks…

Source: Jbrary

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a gorilla with books.

Gorilla Coloring Page

 

 

Make a banana from a paper plate and tissue paper

Paper Plate Banana Craft

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she’ll use throughout life like communication, appreciation of cultures and occupations, physical dexterity, and self-expression. So grab that box of old clothes, shoes, jewelry, hats, and costumes and play!

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Dress-up play is more than just physically wearing a costume. When “in character” kids role play. They imitate the character’s mannerisms and may even create their own special traits and themes, which encourages kids to “think outside of the box,” practice different emotions, and use their language skills to communicate too. – The Benefits of Dress-Up Play

Activity

Create a dress-up bin or box and leave it in the play room. Stock a laundry basket, box or cubby full of oversized clothes and accessories like bright scarves, fancy shoes, mismatched socks, baseball hats, sunglasses, boas, sports jerseys, aprons, princess dresses, and costume jewelry. Having these fun items readily available in the play area will inspire kids to want to use costumes and accessories in their everyday play. – The Benefits of Dress-Up Play

Books Presented

Book cover for Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing by Judi Barrett

Animals Should Definitely Not Wear Clothing by Judi Barrett

Animals should definitely not wear clothing.
…because a snake would lose it, a billy goat would eat it for lunch, and it would always be wet on a walrus! This well-loved book by Judi and Ron Barrett shows the very youngest why animals’ clothing is perfect…just as it is.
Book cover for Sparkles, No Sparkles by Shannon McNeill

Sparkles, No Sparkles by Shannon McNeill

Adorable sparkle-less animals raid the theatre for crowns, boots and capes to add some much-needed sparkle to their ensemble
Book cover for Dozens of Dachshunds: A Counting, Woofing, Wagging Book by Stephanie Calmenson

Dozens of Dachshunds: A Counting, Woofing, Wagging Book by Stephanie Calmenson

A galore of Dachshunds dressed in clever costumes gather in the park to celebrate Dachshund Day.
Book cover for What We Wear Dressing Up Around the World by Maya Ajmera

What We Wear: Dressing Up Around the World by Maya Ajmera

Bright, uplifting photographs show children from different countries dressed in traditional clothing from each culture. Captions suggest context for the images; “Dressing up means celebrating who we are… and what we believe,” reads one. A smiling child from Papua New Guinea wears a feathered crown and necklace, while two children from Ethiopia are adorned with decorative beads and shells. Another spread shows children from Japan, the United Kingdom, the U.S., and Malawi dressed in sports uniforms.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Red, Red is the Color I See

(tune of I’m a Little Teapot)
Red*, red is the color I see.
If you have a red scarf, shake it for me!
Stand up, take a bow, and turn around.
If you’ve got a red scarf, then sit back down!

*yellow, blue, orange, green, white…

Source: King County Library System

I put my scarf on my head

I put my scarf on my head,
It may be green or red,
I leave it there while I blink and stare,
And then I toss it in the air.
One, two, three!

I put my scarf on my knees,
I always remember say please…

I put my scarf on my foot,
On my foot my scarf I put…

I put my scarf on my tummy,
I always think that’s funny…

I put my scarf on my face,
It’s really a very nice place,
I leave it there while I blink and stare,
And then I toss it in the air,
One, two, three!

Source: Sukey Molloy

Where Could You Be?

Dachshund, dachshund, where could you be?
Are you under the hard hat?
Let’s look and see!

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring kids in different dress up costumes.

Dress-Up Party Coloring Page

 

 

Make a dress-up necklace from yarn, paper, and sections of straw.

Necklace Craft for Kids

Additional Books

Book cover for Maisy Dresses Up by Lucy Cousins

Maisy Dresses Up by Lucy Cousins

Maisy the mouse makes a very special costume for Tallulah’s costume party.

The Little Tiger by Nicola Killen

The Little Tiger by Nicola Killen

As Ollie practices her roar in her new tiger suit, a gust of wind carries her to a forest where a group of animals throw her a birthday party.
Book cover for Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend by Bob Shea

Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend by Bob Shea

Two turtles, one masquerading as a bear and the other a self-proclaimed bear expert, become friends after a day of bear-adjacent activities.
Book cover for Dress-Up Day by Blanca Gómez

Dress-Up Day by Blanca Gómez

Sick at home, a young girl misses the costume party at school, so she decides to wear her rabbit costume the next day; but when the other children laugh at her, she is sad–until a boy turns up in his carrot costume, and soon the other children join in their play.

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for teaching your child about assistance animals… what they do, how to approach them, and why they are so important.

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Safety is a key part of respecting animals. Some important things to consider teaching your child when approaching an animal could include:

Teach children to approach pets slowly and let them sniff first to show respect and prevent sudden reactions.

Always ask permission before touching unfamiliar animals to ensure safety.

Use gentle strokes, avoiding sensitive areas like the belly, paws, mouth, and face, and stop immediately if the pet shows discomfort.

Safe spots to pet are the sides, behind the ears, and along the back.-lifelineanimal.org – https://lifelineanimal.org/understanding-animal-behavior-teaching-kids-pet-safety-cues/

Activity

After going over the safety rules of how to approach an animal with your child, use a plush animal or puppet to practice before meeting a real animal.

Books Presented

Book cover for Evie is a Dog, NOT a Robot: Understanding Assistance Dogs by Jennifer Gravrok

Evie is a Dog, NOT a Robot: Understanding Assistance Dogs by Jennifer Gravrok

Suzie has been dreaming of this day forever — she’s finally meeting Evie, her very own assistance dog! Evie is smart, kind, and specially trained to help Suzie with her disability. Together, they’re about to learn what it really means to be a team.

From opening doors to picking up dropped toys, Evie can do amazing things. But when Evie gets distracted by new smells, squirrels, or just wants to play, Suzie learns an important lesson: even the best-trained dogs aren’t robots—they’re loving, loyal friends who need patience, understanding, and time.

As Suzie and Evie learn to work together, they discover that teamwork is built on trust, laughter, and a lot of treats!

Book cover for Boop! by Bea Birdsong

Boop! by Bea Birdsong

There are so many snoots to boop! Snoots attached to big dogs and little dogs and dogs with beards and those without. Are you ready to boop ALL the snoots?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Little Dog, Little Dog

Little dog, little dog; come out and play!
What color house are you in today?

Are you in the _(color)_ house?

Paws On the Dog

Tune: Wheels on the Bus
The paws on the dog go trot, trot, trot.
Trot, trot, trot, trot, trot, trot.
The paws on the dog go trot, trot, trot.
All through the town.

The ears on the dog go flop, flop, flop…
The nose on the dog goes sniff, sniff, sniff…
The tongue on the dog goes lick, lick, lick…
The tail on the dog goes wag, wag, wag…
The people with the dogs go, “SIT!”

Source: King County Library System

Crafts and Activities

A coloring and activity booklet that teaches about service dogs.

Service Dog Activity Book

 

 

Make a dog from different sizes of hearts.

Heart Shaped Dog Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Service Animals by E. C. Andrews

Service Animals by E.C. Andrews

From detecting allergies and seizures to guiding those who cannot see across the street, service animals are the ones for the job. These animal helpers keep people safe, solve problems, and make their lives easier. Learn all about the bond between animals and us.
Book cover for I'm a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog by Michal Babay

I'm a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog by Michal Babay

Chewie the poodle narrates his efforts to complete training as a service dog for Alice, who has celiac disease, but bugs, pizza, and his own tail are very distracting. Includes information on celiac disease.
Book cover for It Was Supposed to Be Sunny by Samantha Cotterill

It Was Supposed to Be Sunny by Samantha Cotterill

Laila’s birthday party, perfectly planned with her autism in mind, goes awry due to a change in weather and an accident with her cake, but with the help of her mom and her service dog, Laila knows she can handle this
Book cover for Nina Learns About Service Animals by Hannah Goodbody

Nina Learns About Service Animals by Hannah Goodbody

Nina and her mother Kiki go for a walk in the park, where she sees a guide dog for the first time. Nina then learns about service animals, how she should interact with them and the important roles that service animals play in society.

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...

Story Time: D is for Dance

Story Time: D is for Dance

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems. So, put on your dancing shoes and bust a move with your child!

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

Ages 3-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

“Dancing and creating music provide an outlet for children to express themselves creatively. It encourages them to invent their moves, compose their songs, and unleash their imagination, fostering both creativity and self-confidence.” The Learning Center

Activity

Select a favorite song from your youth and share it with your child as you move and dance to the rhythm. You can choose to add simple props or noise makers like socks, scarves, wooden spoons, etc. to your dance.

Books Presented

Book cover for Barnyard Dance! by Sandra Boynton

Barnyard Dance! by Sandra Boynton

Join twirling pigs, fiddle-playing cows, and other unforgettable animals in their barnyard dance! With rhythmic rhyming text, this book is guaranteed to get kids and adults spinning, swinging, and prancing with the high-spirited cast of characters!
Book cover for Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae

Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae

Gerald the giraffe is too clumsy to dance with all the other animals at the Jungle Dance, until he finds the right music.
Book cover for The Ants Who Couldn't Dance by Susan Rich Brooke

The Ants Who Couldn't Dance by Susan Rick Brooke

When the music starts playing, everyone can dance … except the ants. They can lift, build, and dig, so why can’t they twirl, dip, and jig? As the ants try to dance, they discover they are better together in this toe-tapping tale of cooperation and teamwork.
Book cover for Bella Ballerina by Sharon M. Draper

Bella Ballerina by Sharon M. Draper

At her first ballet recital, a young ballerina overcomes a bout of stage fright to help a fellow dancer in need.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Silly Dance Contest

By Jim Gill

Dance any way you want to
Dance any way you please
Dance any way you want to
But stop when I say freeze. Repeat.

Jump as high as you want to…
Dance as fast as you want to…
Dance as slow as you want to…

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring Gerald the Giraffe dancing.

Dance Coloring Page

 

 

A dancer created from a paper plate and construction paper.

Paper Plate Dancer

Additional Books

Book cover for Elephants Cannot Dance! by Mo Willems

Elephants Cannot Dance! by Mo Willems

Gerald the elephant is certain that he cannot dance but his friend Piggie convinces him to try.

Book cover for Barn Dance! by Bill Martin

Barn Dance! by Bill Martin

Unable to sleep on the night of a full moon, a young boy follows the sound of music across the fields and finds an unusual barn dance in progress.
Book cover for How Do You Wokka-Wokka? by Elizabeth Bluemle

How Do You Wokka-Wokka? by Elizabeth Bluemle

A young boy who likes to “wokka-wokka, shimmy-shake, and shocka-shocka” gathers his neighbors together for a surprise celebration.
Book cover for Dance! by Elisha Cooper

Dance! by Elisha Cooper

Come join the dance company.

More Story Times

Story Time: S is for Sledding and the OlympicS

You don’t need snow when you have your imagination! You can sit in a basket, box, or even the bathtub! So, jump on a “sled” and join us in a downhill adventure with these books and activities about the Winter Olympics and sledding!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Snow

Winter is a magical time of “firsts” for a baby or toddler… first snowflake, white world, or cold nose. Even if there isn’t snow outdoors, you can introduce them to new textures like a fleece scarf, fuzzy mitten, or even a smooth ice pack wrapped in a towel with...

Story Time: S is for Snow and Winter OlympicS

Enjoying a snowy day with your child is the perfect time to teach them about healthy competition. As you play, you can talk about: How to win and lose gracefully Encouraging all participants Congratulating the winner The value of cooperation and teamwork Feeling proud...

Kid ‘n’ Tween Activities February 2026

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us this February for Early Literacy Programs as we explore a snowy theme! Toddler Time (Ages 1-3, walking toddlers & grown-ups) - Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room. Enjoy songs, stories, and sensory building...

Story Time: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in January

New books are great! If you haven’t had a chance to visit the library lately, you should come in and check out our section of New Non-fiction Books in the Children’s section. Non-fiction fuels curiosity, answers questions, is easily relatable to life, and builds...

Story Time: D is for Dress-Up

Have you ever played dress-up with your child? Not only is it great fun for them and you, but it can also be a critical developmental tool. It helps your child to make sense of the world around her while developing essential skills she'll use throughout life like...

Story Time: D is for Dogs: Special Service Dogs Edition

For a lot of children, meeting dogs and others animals can be an exciting experience. However, if they are unprepared for that introduction, it can lead to an undesirable experience, especially with service animals. Check out some of the tips and books below for...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: Dogs & Puppies

Through books, visits to petting zoos, and interactive animal puppets and toys, your child will explore the animal kingdom by learning the sounds animals make. This includes discovering the wide range of vocalizations from dogs, understanding the differences between...

Story Time: D is for Dance

“D” is for dancing! Did you know that, in addition to being a fantastic way to build physical skills in children, dancing is also a powerful workout for the brain? Remembering choreography strengthens memory and improves a child’s ability to focus and solve problems....

January 2026 Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story Time and Early Literacy Join us for stories, songs, and fun all month long as we explore the letter D! We'll groove with Dance, learn from Service Dogs, try on costumes for Dress Up, and finish with something brand new just for you! Story Time is on Tuesdays and...