Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers are invited to enter a wonderful world filled with playtime, songs and rhymes, clapping hands and smiling faces, wide eyes, and comfortable laps at the Keene Public Library. Registration for the next session of storytimes has begun. The six-week session of programs starts the week of March 20 and ends on April 26. Registration will continue throughout the series as space is available.
Preschool Storytime is designed for children aged three to six and will be held on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Baby and Toddler Storytime will be held Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. Each program takes place in the Youth Department Storyroom on the second floor and will include simple, age-appropriate stories, songs, and fingerplays. Participants can register through Keene Public Library’s online calendar at keenepubliclibrary.evanced.info/signup/calendar or by calling 603-352-0157.
On Monday mornings at 10:30 a.m., Keene Public Library hosts either “1, 2, 3 Play With Me,” a playtime for young children, or “Messy Art,” a sensory exploration time in the Kay Fox Meeting Room. Both programs are fun learning times for children 1 to 3 years and their parents and caregivers. Infant and preschool siblings may attend with a registered toddler.
Youth programs at Keene Public Library are carefully planned in response to continuing research showing the importance of sharing language with young children. Sharing books helps to create a deep and lasting bond between child and caregiver. The early introduction of language play, books, rhymes, and songs into children’s life offers them a variety of experiences. Finally, sharing books with young children can help to prepare children to learn to read and love books” “Reading is the basis for all learning,” Youth Services Librarian Gail Zachariah explained. “Encouraging your kids to read and use the library is the best thing you can to help them do better in school and keep learning throughout their lives.”
Although all Keene Public Library programs are free and open to the public, space is limited, and registration is required for weekday storytimes. For further information about family and youth programs at the Keene Public Library, call 603-352-0157.
