- Pick the right storytime at the right time for you. Many libraries offer specific storytime for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with stories that are hand-picked for their age or language! The storytime that works best for some parents might be the middle of nap time for others, so keep your child’s needs in mind.
- It’s okay if your child wiggles, gets bored, doesn’t want to share, or is too tired to stay. If you feel like you need to step out for a few minutes until your child is ready to come back in, that’s alright. These are all teaching opportunities for you in a friendly environment with other parents and facilitators who expect children to behave, well, just like children.
- Join in! When you participate in the storytime activities, you’re showing your daughter that you value what’s happening too.
- Take note of any new songs, stories, or activities that you might want to explore at home. Storytime is a great place to pick up new ideas.
- Listen to the way the story teller reads and interacts with the children. See if you can pick up on what excites your son the most, and new ways to read at home.
- Minimize distractions by putting away your cell phone, food, toys, and other things that might keep your child from following along with the group.
- Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to other parents. Being the first person to say hi is often the hardest part, but most parents are excited to meet other parents and eager to make connections.
- Make storytime a habit. If you can, find a weekly story time to make a habit to go to. Your daughter will look forward to this special time and you’ll start to recognize familiar faces each week.
- Start your own story time club! Anyone can host a story time. All you need is a place to meet and a few friends with kids. Here are a few tips to get you started.
