Story Time Guidelines

 

To make story time a positive experience for your family as well as others, please consider the following:

 

*      If the library is a new place for your child, visit us prior to coming for a program. I would like to meet you and introduce you to our library.

*      Discuss appropriate library behavior with your child before coming to the program.

*      Arrive a few minutes early, to minimize disruptions.   Children need time to greet friends, become acclimated to a different environment, and to relax. Since young children are easily distracted, latecomers often become the focus of attention which interrupts the flow of an activity in progress.

*      Do not leave your child unattended during a program.  Bathroom emergencies, behavior issues, and other crises are not at all unusual for small children.  Please stay close and be prepared to take charge if the need arises.

*      Remember that your child is watching YOU!  Be a positive role model for your child by listening to the stories and by participating in the activities. Parents are always welcome to sit with their child and join the fun.

*      Leave toys and snacks at home or in the car so they do not distract other children. In addition all library toys and puzzles should be put away before the start of story time.

*      Please be considerate of others by taking your child out of story time if he/she is unhappy or disruptive. Feel free to return when you feel your child is ready to listen.

*      Encourage your child to respect the tools used for story time.  Items such as flannel board pieces, puppets, books, and media equipment should be off limits to children during story time.

*      Keep in mind that at times a large audience requires special seating either on the bleachers or around the perimeter of the story time carpet.  Encourage your child to cooperate during such times so that every child may have access to an unblocked view.

*      Story time is a wonderful time for socializing not only for children but for adults too!  However, +please visit with other parents before or after, not during story time.   Even quiet, personal conversations are distracting to others who are engaged in story time.

*      Extend the reading experience by checking out books to share with your child at home.  Allow your child to select books before or after story time.

Text Box: Please do not be discouraged or embarrassed if your child does not behave like a perfect angel during story time. It is normal and quite expected that young children are rambunctious and full of energy. Take advantage of this wonderful period in your child’s life by making story time a learning experience. The benefits will be far reaching both academically and socially.