Storytime: March is for Eric Carle

Storytime: March is for Eric Carle

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 to learn.” And his desire was “to show them that learning is really both fascinating and fun.” We hope you and your child have fun with Eric Carle, his books and the accompanying activities. For more information on Eric Carle, go to https://eric-carle.com/ .

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Children like to explore works of art that use a variety of materials and approaches to color, line, shape, texture, pattern, and space. Find a number of different illustrations for a song or a rhyme that your child already knows. Look at the pictures together and help her see and talk about their similarities and differences. Having fun making comparisons is one way to help your child develop an appreciation and love for art. ~ Lambert

Activity

Encourage your child to create a piece of art like Eric Carle. Paint several sheets of paper with watercolors, let them dry, draw a simple pattern on a blank piece of paper, cut out shapes from the dried watercolor paper and paste them on to the canvas like a puzzle. For a video on how Eric Carle creates a collage, go here

Books Presented

Book cover for Have You Seen My Cat? by Eric Carle

Have You Seen My Cat? by Eric Carle

A young boy encounters all sorts of cats while searching for the one he lost.

Book cover for Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Children see a variety of animals, each one a different color, and a teacher looking at them.

Book cover for Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle

Papa, Pleas Get the Moon for Me by Eric Carle

A child asks her father for the moon, but when he reaches it, it is too big to carry home.

Book cover for From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Encourages the reader to exercise by following the movements of various animals; presented in a question and answer format.
Book cover for The Nonsense Show by Eric Carle

The Nonsense Show by Eric Carle

Ducks growing out of bananas? A mouse catching a cat? What’s wrong with this book? Yes, there’s something strange, something funny, and even downright preposterous on every page of this book. But it’s not a mistake–it’s nonsense! And it’s also surrealism.

Book cover for The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle

The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle

The farm animals try to divert a busy little spider from spinning her web, but she persists and produces a thing of both beauty and usefulness. The pictures may be felt as well as seen.
Book cover for The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Follows the progress of a very hungry caterpillar as he eats his way through a varied and very large quantity of food, until, full at last, he forms a cocoon around himself and goes to sleep.

Book cover for The Greedy Python by Richard Buckley

The Greedy Python by Richard Buckley

A hungry python tries to swallow every animal that he sees in the jungle.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Have You Seen My Cat?

Have you seen my cat?
My furry, tabby cat?
Is he under the ________ hat?

The Color I See

Red, red is the color I see.
If you’ve got red, then show it to me.
Stand up, take a bow, turn around.
Bring up your red and sit back down.

Yellow…
Blue…
Green…
Purple…
Orange…

Source: Verona Storytime

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom

Zoom, zoom, zoom
We’re looking for the moon.
Zoom, zoom, zoom
We’re looking for the moon.
We think that we will take a look underneath the ________ book.
Zoom, zoom, zoom
We’re looking for the moon. 5,4,3,2,1

Adapted from Jbrary

S-N-A-K-E

Tune: Bingo
I had a snake
he was so green
as green as snakes can be!
S-N-A-K-E, S-N-A-K-E, S-N-A-K-E, 
he is my favorite snake!

Can You Shake Your Egg?

(Tune: Have You Ever Seen?)
Can you shake your egg with me,
egg with me, egg with me?
Can you shake your egg with me
and put it on your (head, knee, belly, etc.)?

Source: Verona Storytime

Spider on the Farm

(Tune: Old MacDonald)
A busy spider lived on a farm,
E-I-E-I-O.
And on that farm she met a _________ *
E-I-E-I-O.
With a _____   _____ here,
And a _____   _____ there.
Here a _____ , there a _____ ,
Everywhere a _____  _____ .
A busy spider lived on a farm,
E-I-E-I-O.
*horse, cow, sheep, goat, pig, dog, cat, duck, rooster…
And she caught a fly in her web… Yum! Yum!

Shake My Sillies Out

I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
Shake, shake, shake my sillies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta clap, clap, clap my crazies out…
I’ve gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out…
I’ve gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out…
I’ve gotta shake, shake, shake my sillies out.

Source: Hope Harrison

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring all of the animals from the book Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

Brown Bear coloring page

Standing cat craft

Standing Cat Craft

Coloring page featuring a house, the moon, and a cat.

House and Moon coloring page

Moon Phase Viewer craft

Moon Phase Viewer

Coloring page with the Very Hungry Caterpillar being help up by balloons.

Very Hungry Caterpillar on Balloons

Cupcake Liner Caterpillar Craft

Cupcake Liner Caterpillar

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

MARCH Book Babies + Toddler Time: Eric Carle

MARCH Book Babies + Toddler Time: Eric Carle

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 wrote or illustrated more than 70 other children’s books, including favorites such as Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and The Very Quiet Cricket. Carle made these friendly insects and animals by painting on tissue paper, cutting out shapes, and pasting them together. The bold, eye-catching collages pop off the page in vibrant colors and rich textures. Even so, it is the “simple, simple feelings,” Carle believed, that have made his books so popular with young children.” ~ReadingRockets.org

Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Monday & Tuesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 11 – 23 months

 

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

Active use of arms and legs encourages development of gross motor skill, which contributes to school readiness and learning. Activities like, “This is Bill Anderson. This is Tom Trim,” children will do what is called crossing the midline – that is, crossing the center of the body. It helps develop children’s minds as well as their bodies. -Reading Picture Books With Children by Lambert

Activity

While sitting on the floor, lay your toddler on her back on your outstretched legs. Hold one of your child’s legs in each hand and guide her through the movements of, “This is Bill Anderson. This is Tom Trim.” Then, stand up and repeat the motions with her arms.

Books Presented

Book cover for Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Children see a variety of animals, each one a different color, and a teacher looking at them.

Book cover for The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle

The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle

The farm animals try to divert a busy little spider from spinning her web, but she persists and produces a thing of both beauty and usefulness. The pictures may be felt as well as seen.
Book cover for From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Encourages the reader to exercise by following the movements of various animals; presented in a question and answer format.

Book cover for The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Follows the progress of a very hungry caterpillar as he eats his way through a varied and very large quantity of food, until, full at last, he forms a cocoon around himself and goes to sleep.
Book cover for Can You Guess Food with the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Can You Guess? Food With the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Use the close-up art to guess which food item will appear on the next page as The Very Hungry Caterpillar eats through this book, giving clues along the way

Book cover for The Greedy Python by Richard Buckley

The Greedy Python by Richard Buckley

 
“The Greedy Python” is quick to gobble up every creature he meets–including to his own great misfortune, himself, when he mistakes the tip of his tail for a lunchtime treat. With drawings by one of the country’s most popular illustrators, this story of a python who is quick to eat everything in sight, including the end of his tail on one sad day, is sure to delight and amuse young readers. Full-color illustrations.
Book cover for Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.

Illustrations and rhyming text portray a young bear searching for its mother and meeting many North American animals along the way.
Book cover for My First Busy World by Eric Carle

My First Busy World by Eric Carle

What do you see in your busy world? Do you play with blocks, or a ball, or a kite? Is the sun shining, or are there sparkly stars in the sky?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Cha, Cha, Chobogin

Cha, cha, chobogin
Cha, cha, cha BIN
Watch out little baby
You might fall IN!

Cha, cha, chobogin
Cha, cha, cha BOP
Watch out little baby
You might go UP!

Cha, cha, chobogin
Cha, cha, cha TOWN
Watch out little baby
You might fall DOWN!

Cha, cha, chobogin
Cha, cha, cha CHOO
Watch out little baby
I might kiss YOU!

Source: Jbrary

This is Bill Anderson

This is Bill Anderson. (Hold up one leg.)
And this is Tom Trim. (Hold up other leg.)

Bill over Tom, (Cross legs, one over the other.)
Tom over Bill, (Cross legs the other way.)

Bill over Tom, (Cross legs faster.) 
Tom over Bill, (Cross legs faster.) 

Bill over Tom, (Cross legs faster.) 
Tom over Bill, (Cross legs legs the other way and continue, going faster and faster.)

Additional verse:
Repeat using arms instead of legs. 

The Color I See

Red, red is the color I see.
If you’ve got red, then show it to me.
Stand up, take a bow, turn around.
Bring up your red and sit back down.

Yellow…
Blue…
Green…
Purple…
Orange…

Source: Verona Storytime

Red and Green and Yellow and Blue

Red and green and yellow and blue.
These are the colors over you!
Red as an apple and green as a tree.
Yellow as the sun and blue as the sea.
Red and green and yellow and blue.
These are the colors over you!

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

The Duck in the Pond Says…

The duck in the pond says quack, quack, quack!
Quack, quack, quack!
Quack, quack, quack!
The duck in the pond says quack, quack, quack
All day long!

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

The itsy bitsy spider 

The itsy bitsy spider went up the water spout.
Down came the rain and washed the spider out.
Out came the sun and dried up all the rain.
And the itsy bitsy spider went up the spout again.

Source: Twinkle Little Songs – Nursery Rhymes

 

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Feelings

Ah, emotions… however big or small, can be difficult to manage for everyone, especially children. There are, however, tips and tricks you can use to help your child learn how to recognize and regulate their feelings, and you can start early, even with an infant. The...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

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...

Storytime: February Something New Just for You

Storytime: February Something New Just for You

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 p.m. in the Community Room.

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Did you know that dialogic reading is actually shared reading? It’s when the adult helps the child become the teller of the story. The adult becomes the listener, the questioner, and the audience for the child through conversation while reading a book together. For more tips and information on dialogic reading, pick up a free pamphlet at the Children’s Reference desk.

Activity

Try using a dialogic completion prompt. First, choose a book that has repetitive text like “The Princess and the Greedy Pea” or “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” Then, when reading with your child, begin a sentence, then leave it open for your child to complete.

Books Presented

Book cover for How To Party Like a Snail by Naseem Hrab

How to Party Like a Snail by Naseem Hrab

Snail is a party animal. Well … kind of. He especially appreciates the quiet things about parties, like confetti, using his indoor voice, and softly blowing out birthday candles. But parties tend to get pretty loud, and that’s when Snail disappears into his shell. But not to worry! Snail still has fun at parties – it’s just that from inside his shell nobody can tell he’s having a good time. And this means he doesn’t get many party invitations … So Snail decides to throw himself his very own quiet party. He plays hide-and-hide, he sways to his favourite lullabies, and enjoys a nice mug of warm milk. But that night, as he tucks himself in a blanket burrito, he starts to feel like something is missing. And that’s when Stump, who’s been there the whole time, chimes in with a suggestion. In the end, Snail realizes that he really does love parties, just not the rowdy ones. He and Stump put on their jammies, turn the lullabies down low, and “celebrate the shush” in their own quiet way.

Book cover for The Messiest Monster on Mill Street by Sarah Sparks.

The Messiest Monster on Mill Street by Sarah Sparks

Max’s messes are legendary–paint on the walls, spills on the floor, crumbs in his fur, and toys scattered everywhere. But Max never intended to be messy; there was simply too much to do and too much fun to be had. That is until one day when his mess becomes an uncontrollable monster of its own!

Book cover for The Princess and the Greedy Pea by Leigh Hodgkinson

The Princess and the Greedy Pea by Leigh Hodgkinson

This little pea is hungry! So hungry it swallows a sprout, slurps up some soup, munches the bread, gobbles the cake, noshes the pickle, guzzles the cheese, drinks all the tea, and even chomps down the table it’s all served on. After all that, it needs to sleep. But whose dinner did it steal? And whose mattress is the now-humongous pea resting under?

Book cover for Five Little Chicks by Lily Murray

Five Little Chicks by Lily Murray

Five little chicks went out one day; Over the hills and far away. Mamma Hen said, “Hurry back to me!” Now how many chicks can you see? Join this fluffy little family on a beautiful walk through the countryside. There’s so much to see as Mamma Hen and her brood wind through a flowery meadow, a bluebell wood, a field full of lambs and a busy farmyard. Along the way, they meet all kinds of baby animals and their parents. But wait – the chicks are disappearing one by one. Whatever are they up to? Lift the flaps to find the chicks and discover a fantastic surprise ending

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Fat Peas

Five fat peas in a pea pod pressed (hold up five fingers)
One grew (hold up one finger)
Two grew (hold up two fingers)
And so did the rest (hold up the rest of your fingers)
They grew and they grew and they did not stop (open and shut hands)
Until one day, the pod went pop! (clap hands together on pop)

Source: Jbrary

If You See a Monster

(tune: Mary Had a Little Lamb)
If you see a ______ monster, ______ monster,______ monster.
If you see a ______ monster, *wave your hand hello.

*…pat your knees like this.
… cover your eyes and hide.

Slowly, Slowly

Slowly, slowly, very slowly
creeps the garden snail.
Slowly, slowly, very slowly 
up the garden rail.
Quickly, quickly, very quickly 
runs the little mouse.
Quickly, quickly very quickly
into his little house.

Source: Jbrary

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page of a cute snail in flowers and grass.

Something New Just For You

Homemade party hats, all decorated, sitting on a table.

Party Hats

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

Storytime: V is for Violins and Violins play Music

Storytime: V is for Violins and Violins play Music

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 them make music through vibrations. The vibrations can be made by air, hitting a drum, through metal, or even the vibrations of vocal chords when you sing. Have fun with your children and make some music. It doesn’t have to be concert worthy, just have fun!

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Even if you can’t sing on key, be sure to sing to your child! Your child is not looking for a concert-quality song; he wats familiar sounds from a person who means a great deal to him. Singing together can be great fun; it doesn’t require any special equipment or cost any money.

Activity

Sing “The Wheels on the Bus” using motions. Then try “The Band on the Bus” and create motions for the different instruments.

Books Presented

Book cover for A Neighborhood Walk, A Musical Journey by Pilar Winter Hill.

A Neighborhood Walk, A Musical Journey by Pilar Winter Hill

As she walks with her mother to a farmer’s market, Penelope hears the melodies of the city from musicians, bicycle bells, and more until one instrument beckons and fills her with magic. Includes author’s note about her first encounter with the violin.
Book cover for My Family Plays Music by Judy Cox.

My Family Plays Music by Judy Cox

A musical family with talents for playing a variety of instruments enjoys getting together to celebrate.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

The Band on the Bus

Tune: The Wheels on the Bus
The Saxophone on the bus goes
Toot-a-toot-swoosh
Toot-a-toot-swoosh
Toot-a-toot-swoosh
The Saxophone on the bus goes
Toot-a-toot-swoosh all through the town.

The Drum on the bus goes
Boom-bam-boom
Boom-bam-boom
Boom-bam-boom
The Drum on the bus goes
Boom-bam-boom all through the town.

The Flute on the bus goes
Flutter-flutter-whiz
Flutter-flutter-whiz
Flutter-flutter-whiz
The Flute on the bus goes
Flutter-flutter-whiz all through the town.

 

The Guitar on the bus goes
Twang-thump-twang
Twang-thump-twang
Twang-thump-twang
The Guitar on the bus goes
Twang-thump-twang all through the town.

The Cello on the bus goes
Pluck-pluck-pluck
Pluck-pluck-pluck
Pluck-pluck-pluck
The Cello on the bus goes
Pluck-pluck-pluck all through the town.

The Violin on the bus goes
Zing-hum-ding
Zing-hum-ding
Zing-hum-ding
The Violin on the bus goes
Zing-hum-ding all through the town.

Source: Pasadena Library

Crafts and Activities

Violin coloring page featuring Grover on the violin.

V is for Violin

A pellet drum made from paper plates, yarn, beads, and a straw.

Pellet Drum Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin by Lloyd Moss.

Zin! Zin! Zin! a Violin by Lloyd Moss

Ten instruments take their parts one by one in a musical performance.
Book cover for The Oboe Goes Boom Boom Boom by Colleen A.F. Venable.

The Oboe Goes Boom Boom Boom by Colleen A.F. Venable

The band is assembled and the band director is ready to tell you all about the instruments, but an enthusiastic little drummer girl keeps interrupting
Book cover for A Fox Found a Box by Ged Adamson

A Fox Found a Box by Ged Adamson

When a little fox finds a radio, he shares the songs and music with his animal friends, but after it goes quiet, the little fox begins to hear the music found in nature.
Book cover for Tanka Tanka Skunk! by Steve Webb.

Tanka Tanka Skunk! by Steve Webb

Uses animal names to introduce rhythmic language and rhyme, as Tanka the elephant and his friend Skunk play drums to keep the beat.

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

Storytime: V is for Valentine’s

Storytime: V is for Valentine’s

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 and actions go a long way in letting people know you care. So spread a little love in the world and maybe enjoy a new book about Valentine’s Day.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Scientific studies have shown that children develop best when they have a strong, positive relationship with a nurturing adult. This helps not only their physical development, but their intellectual development as well. Hugs and kisses and be just as important as flash cards in getting a child ready for success in school. – “Reading Picture Books With Children” Megan Lambert

Activity

With your child, sing and dance to the song rhyme, “Skidamarink a-dink, a-dink,” and give your child a hug every time you sing, “I love you!”

Books Presented

Book cover for Mr. Goat's Valentine by Eve Bunting

Mr. Goat's Valentine by Eve Bunting

When Mr. Goat learns that it’s Valentine’s Day, he sets out in search of gifts for his first love, but his choices are a little unconventional

Book cover for Grumpy Monkey Valentine Gross-Out by Suzanne Lang

Grumpy Monkey Valentine Gross-Out by Suzanne Lang

Jim Panzee is very grumpy about Valentine’s Day until his buddy Norman shows him that the holiday is for everyone
Book cover for Valenslime by Joy Keller

Valenslime by Joy Keller

Ever since Victoria Franken brought her slime to life she and Goop have been great friends, but after realizing on Valentine’s Day that while she had many friends, Goop only had her, she tries to create a new slime friend for him.

Book cover for If You Were My Valentine by Lynn Plourde

If You Were My Valentine by Lynn Plourde

Big animals show how they’d give their love to little animals for Valentine’s Day and every day of the year.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Heart On Your Nose

Tune: If You’re Happy
Put your heart on your nose, on your nose.
Put your heart on your nose, on your nose.
It’s a heart for love and friendship
And a hug for everyone
Put your heart on your nose, on your nose.
Toes… Head… Knee… 

I Can Hug

I can hug, hug, hug
I can hop, hop, hop
I can kiss, kiss, kiss
I can stop, stop, stop
I can nod my head for yes,
And I can shake my head no,
I can sit down very, very slow.

Valentine Rhymes

This valentine is shaped like a square.
This valentine is shaped like a bear.
This valentine is shaped like a circle.
This valentine is the color purple.
This valentine is shaped like a rectangle.
This valentine is shaped like a triangle.
This valentine is shaped like a dove.
This valentine is made with love.

Five Little Hearts

Tune of “Five Little Ducks”
Down around the corner at the Valentine shop
Were five little hearts with polka dots.
Along came Mommy with a nickel to pay
And she bought a Valentine and took it away.

Little Heart

I have a little heart, (place hand over heart)
And it goes thump, thump, thump (pat chest three times)
It keeps right on beating,
When I jump, jump, jump (jump three times)
I get a special feeling, when I look at you. (point to child)
It makes me want to give you a hug or two. (hug yourself)

Source: Jbrary

Heart

I put my hands together
(hold palms together)
This is how I start
I curve my fingers right around
(make heart with fingers)
And I can make a heart!

Source: Adventures of a Bookworm

Skidamarink

Skidamarink a-dink, a-dink
Skidamarink a-doo
I love you.
Skidamarink a-dink, a-dink
Skidamarink a-doo
I love you.
I love you in the morning
And in the afternoon.
I love you in the evening
And underneath the moon.
Oh, skidamarink a-dink, a-dink
Skidamarink a-doo
I love you.

Crafts and Activities

Gnome Valentine Coloring Page

V is for Valentine's

Kids Valentine's Day Garland

Valentine's Necklace or Garland

Additional Books

Book cover for How to Help a Cupid by Sue Fliess

How to Help a Cupid by Sue Fliess

Valentine’s Day is all about showing kindness to the most important people in your life–and if you’re caring and thoughtful, you can help Cupid spread love and happiness, too!

Book cover for I Love You A Rebus Poem by Jean Marzollo

I Love You: A Rebus Poem by Jean Marzollo

A poem with a rebus format, in which the speaker professes love equal to that of a bird for a tree, a flower for a bee, and a lock for a key.
Book cover for Click, Clack, Moo I Love You! by Doreen Cronin

Click, Clack, Moo: I Love You! by Doreen Cronin

Little Duck is working hard making valentines for everyone and decorating for the Valentine’s Day dance, but what happens when an unexpected guest arrives?

Book cover for When an Elephant Falls in Love by Davide Cali

When an Elephant Falls in Love by Davide Cali

When an elephant falls in love, he does many foolish things, and never tells her how he feels–until one day the doorbell rings.

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

Storytime: V is for Veggies

Storytime: V is for Veggies

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 perhaps, you could talk about sequencing or the order of steps in a recipe while you prepare a pot of vegetable soup together.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Helping children see the order in which things take place, whether in books like “Eat Your Veggies, Goldilocks” by Steve Smallman or “Pumpkin, Pumpkin” by Jeanne Titherington, in a recipe, or in the sequence of the day, helps them develop the mathematical concept of sequencing. ~ Lambert

Activity

With your child, draw a set of pictures for the events of the day, such as make the bed, get dressed, brush your teeth, put away toys, etc. Then help him organize the pictures in sequential order and display them in a conspicuous place for him to observe during the day.

Books Presented

Book cover for Eat Your Veggies, Goldilocks by Steve Smallman

Eat Your Veggies, Goldilocks by Steve Smallman

In this version Goldilocks runs away and falls asleep in a cottage where the bears live after her parents refuse to give her cookies and ice cream for breakfast. The bears introduce her to healthy eating habits.

Book cover for Growing Vegetable Soup by Lois Ehlert

Growing Vegetable Soup by Lois Ehlert

A father and child grow vegetables and then make them into a soup.
Book cover for Seeds by Carme Lemniscates

Seeds by Carme Lemniscartes

Seeds harbor immense potential. They defy their size by sprouting and growing into plants. And these plants develop beautiful flowers and delicious fruits and vegetables. Even in the most unlikely environments, seeds manage to thrive. Like seeds, we can cultivate and nurture something wonderful. There is much we can learn from seeds.

Book cover for Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! by Candace Fleming

Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! by Candace Fleming

After planting the garden he has dreamed of for years, Mr. McGreely tries to find a way to keep some persistent bunnies from eating all his vegetables.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Fruits and Veggies Unite!

Form banana, form, form banana
form banana, form, form, banana
Peel banana, peel, peel banana
peel banana, peel, peel banana
Go bananas, go, go, bananas
Go bananas, go, go, bananas

Form zucchini, form, form zucchini
Form zucchini, form, form zucchini
Slice zucchini, slice, slice zucchini
Slice zucchini, slice, slice zucchini
Eat zucchini,eat, eat, zucchini
Eat zucchini, eat, eat, zucchini

 Form the corn, form form the corn
Form the corn, form form the corn
Shuck the corn, shuck, shuck the corn
Shuck the corn, shuck, shuck the corn
Pop the corn, pop, pop the corn
Pop the corn, pop, pop the corn

Form potato, form, form potato
Form potato, form, form potato
Peel potato, peel, peel potato
Peel potato, peel, peel potato
Mash potato, mash, mash potato
mash potato, mash, mash potato

Source: Jbrary

Vegetable Riddles

I’m red and round,
I also have seeds.
Sliced up in salads,
Is where you’ll see me!

I’m a root vegetable,
I can be red, white or green.
I can make you cry
When you cut into me!

I grow underground,
But I have skin and eyes.
I can be roasted or mashed,
Or made into fries!

Rabbits like to eat me
When I grow in a field.
I’m an orange vegetable.
I taste best when I’m peeled!

I’m yellow and yummy,
I grow on a stalk.
You can eat me on the cob,
Or cook me in a pot!

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

The Veggies in the Soup

To the tune of “The Farmer in the Dell”
The carrots go in the soup, the carrots go in the soup,
We’ll stir and stir and stir some more
When the carrots are in the soup!
(repeat with other vegetables)

Now the soup is done, now the soup is done
We’ll eat and eat and eat some more
Now that the soup is done. YUM!

Source: Storytime in the Stacks

Green zucchini

Tune: Alouette
Green zucchini, I like green zucchini
Green zucchini, that’s what I like best.
Do you like it on your head?
Yes, I like it on my head. 
On your head? On my head.
Oooooohhhhhh
Verses: yellow corn, orange carrots, red bell peppers, purple eggplant

Source: Jbrary

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring vegetables.

V is for Veggies

3D paper bell pepper craft.

3D Pop Up Peppers

Additional Books

Book cover for Monsters Don't Eat Broccoli by Barbara Jean Hicks

Monster Don't Eat Broccoli by Barbara Jean Hicks

The waitress in this restaurant just doesn’t have a clue. Monsters don’t eat broccoli. How could she think we do? These fearsome but finicky monsters insist they don’t like food from the garden–leave that to the humans. They’d rather snack on tractors or a rocket ship or two, or tender trailer tidbits or a wheely, steely stew. But boy, do those trees they’re munching on look an awful lot like broccoli. Maybe vegetables aren’t so bad after all.

Book cover for Pumpkin Pumpkin by Jeanne Titherington

Pumpkin Pumpkin by Jeanne Titherington

Jamie plants a pumpkin seed and, after watching it grow, carves it, and saves some seeds to plant in the spring.
Book cover for No Nibbling by Beth Ferry

No Nibbling! by Beth Ferry

Derwood the goat has planted a garden and is prepared to defend it from all nibblers, including Tabitha the bunny, whom Derwood is convinced has designs on his growing vegetables; she teases him as the months go by, but after she helps him with the weeding the two become friends and share the feast.

Book cover for No-Dig Children's Gardening Book by Charles Dowding

No-Dig Children's Gardening Book by Charles Dowding

No matter where you garden, it’s easier without digging or weeding! Learn about helpful creatures, soil health, compost and plants that are good for wildlife.

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Music & Movement

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Music & Movement

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 Babies: Wednesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Monday & Tuesday @ 9:30am in Community Room

Ages 11 – 23 months

 

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

The concept of loud and soft plays an important role in music and throughout life. Children need to know when a loud voice is ok and when a soft voice is required. Through music, they can have fun learning the difference between loud and soft. ~Reading Picture Books With Children by Lambert

Activity

Recite the rhyming fingerplay, “Two Little Blackbirds Sitting on a Cloud,” with your child using the indicated movements. When you recite it, say the words, “soft” softly and “loud” loudly.

Books Presented

Dancing Feet by Lindsey Craig

Dancing Feet by Lindsey Craig

Easy-to-read, rhyming text depicts different animals dancing.
Book Cover for Row, Row, Row Your Boat by Jane Cabrera

Row, Row, Row Your Boat by Jane Cabrera

In this expansion of a familiar song, the occupants of a rowboat enjoy seeing and making the sounds of different jungle animals
Book cover for I Got the Rhythm by Connie Schofield-Morrison

I Got the Rhythm by Connie Schofield-Morrison

On a trip to the park with her mother, a young girl hears a rhythm coming from the world around her and begins to move to the beat, finally beginning an impromptu dance in which other children join her.
Book cover for Move! by Steve Jenkins

Move! by Steve Jenkins

Learn about how different animals move.
Book cover for Hop, Hop, Jump! by Lauren Thompson

Hop, Hop, Jump! by Lauren Thompson

Rhyming text, accompanied by labeled illustrations that identify parts of the body, encourages readers to wiggle and twist, stomp and zig-zag, and hug and shrug.
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 If You're Happy and You know It by Jane Cabrera

If You're Happy and You Know It by Jane Cabrera

An elephant, a monkey, and a giraffe join other animals to sing different verses of this popular song that encourages everyone to express their happiness through voice and movement.

 

Sing, stomp, and clap along with animal friends in this interactive board book. Nod along with groovy giraffe, flap with baby bird, and roar out loud with lion in this sing-along action book that will put a smile on everyone’s face. If you’re happy and you know it, then this celebration is for you.
Book cover for Hope a Little, Jump a Little! by Annie Kubler

Hope a Little, Jump a Little! by Annie Kubler

Simple rhymes describe the different ways babies and toddlers can move around.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Andy Pandy Sugar and Candy

Andy Pandy Sugar and Candy, All pop down.
Andy Pandy Sugar and Candy, All pop up.
Andy Pandy Sugar and Candy, All pop in.
Andy Pandy Sugar and Candy, All pop out.

Source: King County Library System

Two Little Blackbirds

Two little black birds sitting on a cloud. (Hold fists with extended index fingers in front.)
One named Soft (Wiggle one finger.)
The other named Loud. (Wiggle 2nd finger.)
Fly away, Soft. (Hide 1st  finger behind back.)
Fly away Loud.(Hide 2nd  finger behind back.)
Come back, Soft. (Bring 1st finger back to front.)
Come back, Loud. (Bring 2nd finger back to front.)

 

Acka Backa Soda Cracker

Acka backa soda cracker, (bounce to rhythm)
Acka backa boo, (lean forward on ‘boo‘)
Acka backa soda cracker, (bounce to rhythm)
I love you! (kiss baby’s head or hug baby)
Acka backa soda cracker, (bounce to rhythm)
Acka backa boo, (lean backwards on ‘boo‘)
Acka backa soda cracker, (bounce to rhythm)
Up goes you! (lift baby up)

Source: Jbrary

Dancing with Bears

1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3 Dancing with bears
1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3 Dancing round chairs
1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3 That’s what we’ll do
1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3 Dancing with you.

Source: Jbrary

Five green and speckled frogs

Five green and speckled frogs
Sitting on a hollow log
Eating the most delicious bugs – YUM YUM
One jumped into the pool
Where it was nice and cool
Now there are only four speckled frogs – GLUB GLUB GLUB

1, 2, 3 Doggie’s Got a Flea

One, two, three
Doggie’s got a flea, doggie’s got a flea
And now it’s on me!
One, two, three
Doggie’s got a flea, doggie’s got a flea
And now it’s on me!
It’s on my nose, It’s on my toes,
It’s on my ear, It’s over here
It’s on my tum, It’s on my thumb
One, two, three
Doggie’s got a flea, doggie’s got a flea
And now it’s on me!
One, two, three
Doggie’s got a flea, doggie’s got a flea
And now it’s on me!

Source: Jbrary

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

SEPTEMBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Feelings

Ah, emotions… however big or small, can be difficult to manage for everyone, especially children. There are, however, tips and tricks you can use to help your child learn how to recognize and regulate their feelings, and you can start early, even with an infant. The...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in the Dark

At the end of the day, it’s a great time to establish a routine to help your child prepare for bed. Some of the activities in your routine could include reading a book, taking a bath, singing a song, picking up toys, or perhaps doing a knee bounce. When you follow the...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Adventures in Imagination

Did you know that imaginative or pretend play contains the building blocks of developing critical thinking skills, following directions, expressive language, and even managing emotions? So, grab those sheets, boxes, mud, dishes, and anything you can think of to help...

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...

Storytime: D is for Disguise

Storytime: D is for Disguise

Storytime: D is for Disguise

Have you ever worn a disguise? Dressed up in a costume or worn a mask? Disguises can change what you look like or help you blend in with your environment. For people this means special clothes or maybe a mustache. But animals sometimes use disguises too, and we call it camouflage. Camouflage is a survival strategy and widespread in the animal kingdom. Animals might use camouflage to hide from predators or sneak up on prey. Some use it to pretend to be a more dangerous animal instead of a tasty snack.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Some Children love to sit and listen to books, and some find other activities more interesting. Help your children enjoy books by having them participate. Ask them to join in saying a repeated phrase. ~ Lambert

Activity

Read the book “Run, Turkey, Run!”, or any book with a repeated phrase. Have the children say the repeated phrase as you read.

Books Presented

Book cover for Animal Disguises by Natalie Hyde

Animal Disguises by Natalie Hyde

Why would an animal need a disguise? This intriguing book features the fascinating ways some animals use camouflage or mimicry to conceal themselves for protection from predators, or as a way to attract prey or a mate.

Book cover for Look at Me! Look at Me! by Rose Williamson

Look at Me! Look at Me! by Rose Williamson

Cammy Chameleon has been blending in all her life to help her catch bugs, but lately it seems like no one is paying attention to her. One day, Cammy has an idea. She carefully concentrates and then, suddenly, she turns bright red. Soon Cammy realizes that showing off isn’t always worth it and that she can be happy being a regular chameleon again–at least most of the time
Book cover of First Day of Unicorn School by Jess Hernandez

First Day of Unicorn School by Jess Hernandez

Milly is thrilled to be accepted into the elite Unicorn School, although she is a donkey in disguise, but her first day reveals she has much in common with her fellow newcomers.

Book cover for Run, Turkey, Run! by Diane Mayr

Run, Turkey, Run! by Diane Mayr

The day before Thanksgiving, Turkey tries to disguise himself as other animals in order to avoid being caught by the farmer.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Cammy Chameleon

I’m Cammy Chameleon
My tongue goes SNAP!
I can change my colors
When I hear a loud CLAP!

Camouflage Rhyme

Oh where oh where can my little frog be?
Oh where oh where can he be?
With his big, buggy eyes
And his smooth, brown skin
Oh where oh where can he be?

Oh where oh where can my tiger be?
Oh where oh where can he be?
With his stripey fur
And his big, sharp teeth
Oh where oh where can he be?

Oh where oh where can my owl be?
Oh where oh where can he be?
With his amber eyes
And his short, curved beak
Oh where oh where can he be?

Oh where oh where can my gecko be?
Oh where oh where can he be?
With his leaf shaped tail
And his sticky toes
Oh where oh where can he be?

Source: Library Bonanza

Unicorn, Unicorn

Unicorn, Unicorn, turn around
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch the ground
Unicorn, Unicorn, reach up high
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch the sky
Unicorn, Unicorn, bend down low
Unicorn, Unicorn, touch your toes

Source: King County Library System

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring a turkey wearing a disguise and holding a sign that says I'm not a turkey.

D is for Disguise

Storytime craft where you match animals to their patterns and then create a pattern to camouflage your own creature.

Camouflage Creature Craft

Cut out the animals and then match them to the squares that would provide them with camouflage. Then use the blank square and blank animal to create your own camouflage pattern.

Additional Books

Book cover for Spectacular Spots by Susan Stockdale

Spectacular Spots by Susan Stockdale

Susan Stockdale brings to life a patterned parade of animals, showing young readers some of the many reasons spots are found so often in nature. Bouncy, alliterative rhyme and simple phrases keep readers entertained, while back matter provides more in-depth information on each featured animal.

Book cover for Chameleon's Colors by Chisato Tashiro

Chameleon's Colors by Chisato Tashiro

Tired of always changing colors, Chameleon is surprised to discover that other jungle animals are bored with their appearances, and he sets out to make each whatever color and pattern he or she wishes.
Book cover for Sheepish (Wolf Under Cover) by Helen Yoon

Sheepish (Wolf Under Cover) by Helen Yoon

Hungry Wolf disguises himself as a sheep and nobody suspects a thing! (Or do they?) Wolf dreams of tasty sheep–sheep sandwiches, sheep sushi, sheep tacos! In his clever sheep costume, he infiltrates the friendly neighborhood herd, blending in by helping with chores, reading bedtime stories to the lambs, and working up a sweat in sheep aerobics class. Wolf’s sneaky plan works so well, he becomes part of the family. And suddenly, the sheep don’t seem quite as tasty. . . . With a charming twist ending and lots of visual fun–including the running theme of Wolf’s disguise not being quite as convincing as he thinks–this hilarious take on the wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing will have readers howling for more.

Book cover for Find Fergus by Mike Boldt

Find Fergus by Mike Boldt

Fergus the bear wants to play hide and seek with the reader, but will need help–and practice–to hide well.

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

Storytime: D is for Dirt

Storytime: D is for Dirt

Storytime: D is for Dirt

Let’s play in the dirt! Soil, mud, and yes, dirt can be a exploration canvas for your child as he engages in sensory experiences, discovers hidden treasures, and learns about the world underneath his feet. You can also create an indoor sensory experience with dirt playdough, spoons, rocks, toy trucks, etc. Using coffee grinds, sand, brown food coloring, or “clean” dirt in a simple salt dough recipe will turn play dough time into a seriously dirty and muddy experience.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

We often want to build on our children’s curiosity, but don’t always know the answers to their questions. We can often discover the answers together in books. Knowledge about the world, even in very young children, is key to understanding. Combining a story and a factual book on nature or science helps expand children’s scientific knowledge. ~Lambert

Activity

Read a fiction book like, “Roy Digs Dirt,” with your child. Then read a factual non-fiction book about soil such as, “Under Your Feet.” Talk about soil, what creatures use it as their home, how it is made, etc. You may also want to follow up with the video song by Clint and Bob Moffatt, “Digging in the Dirt.”

Books Presented

Cover of the book Dig In! by Cynthia L. Jenson-Elliott

Dig In! by Cynthia L. Jenson-Elliott

A little boy digs, plays, and explores in his garden.

Book Cover of Roy Digs Dirt by David Shannon

Roy Digs Dirt by David Shannon

Roy is a West Highland terrier who loves to dig in the dirt and mud; sometimes he buries things, and sometimes he finds things, but mostly he just likes to dig–even though he does not like the bath that may follow the digging.
Book Cover of I'm Dirty by Kate and Jim McMullan

I'm Dirty by Kate McMullan

A busy backhoe loader describes all the items it hauls off a lot and all the fun it has getting dirty while doing so.

Book cover of The Pigeon Needs a Bath! by Mo Willems

The Pigeon Needs a Bath! by Mo Willems

The Pigeon is dirty and he needs a bath, but he won’t go willingly

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Pigs So Squeaky Clean

Tune: Five Green and Speckled Frogs
Five pigs so squeaky clean
Cleanest you’ve ever seen.
Wanted to go outside and play.
Oink! Oink!
One jumped into the mud.
Landed with a great big THUD
Now there are four  clean squeaky pigs.

Source: Verona Storytime

Five Elephants in the Tub

One elephant in the tub
Going for a swim,
Knock-knock (clap twice), splash-splash (slap knees twice),
Come on in! Ohhhh elephant!

2 . . . 3 . . . 4

Five elephants in the tub
Going for a swim,
Knock-knock (clap twice), splash-splash (slap knees twice),
And they all FELL IN!

Source: Verona Storytime

Crafts and Activities

Jack Russel Terrier digging a hole coloring page

D is for Dirt

Dump Truck Craft

Dump Truck Craft

Make a dump truck from a paper plate

Additional Books

Book cover for Carl and the Meaning of Life by Deborah Freedman

Carl and the Meaning of Life by Deborah Freedman

When a field mouse asks Carl the earthworm why he tunnels through the dirt, Carl doesn’t have an answer, so he sets off to find out.

Book Cover for Under Your Feet by Jacqueline L. Stroud

Under Your Feet by Jacqueline L. Stroud

 
Down where worms wriggle and microbes squirm, there’s a whole world waiting to be discovered… Under Your Feet delves beneath the Earth’s surface and explores the diverse wonders hidden there. Encounter creatures of the deep and marvel at the mind-boggling size of the humongous fungus–the biggest organism in the world. Learn how one handful of ordinary soil contains more organisms than there are people on Earth, and carry out experiments using dirt from your own back garden. Under Your Feet offers you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of the natural world and soil-dwelling creatures big and small. Bursting with colorful illustrations and photography, this is the perfect book for budding young plant experts, animal fanatics, and geologists, and anyone who is curious about the ground we walk on.
Book cover for Dirty Gert by Tedd Arnold

Dirty Gert by Tedd Arnold

A little girl who loves playing in the dirt becomes a tree.

Book Cover for Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion

Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion

When a white dog with black spots runs away from home, he gets so dirty his family doesn’t recognize him as a black dog with white spots.

More Story Times

Storytime: G is for Geese

Mother Goose has introduced timeless rhymes, songs and stories to children across the globe, but have you observed the role of the “goose” in today’s literature? Not only is she silly and inquisitive, but she’s friendly, kind, and smart, not to mention a significant...

Storytime: G is for Go, Go, Go

Join us for Idaho Family Reading Week 2024 and “Rev Up Your Reading” as we go, go, GO! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books and stories to help children...

NOVEMBER Book Babies + Toddler Time: Duck, Duck, Goose

“Play is serious business when it comes to a child's health and development. From peek-a-boo to pat-a-cake and hide-and-seek to hopscotch, the many forms of play enrich a child's brain, body and life in important ways.” HealthyChildren.org. When reading books with...

November Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeNovember Story Time is here, and our themes are “Duck, Duck, Goose!” for Book Babies and Toddler Time and the letter “G” for Story Time! Join us in the Community Room for songs, stories, and sensory activities perfect for each age group. Book Babies...

Storytime: Halloween

It’s time to put on a costume and have some Halloween fun! But first, try out some of these books, songs, and rhymes to enhance your spooky family activities!Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5Sing,...

Storytime: Hibernation

When reading a book with your child, don’t skip or rush through the complex words. This is a great time to talk with your child about how to pronounce the word and its context within the book or story you are reading together. For example, the word, “hibernation,” can...

Storytime: Hedgehogs

Did you know that attending story time will not only help your children develop early literacy skills, but it also helps them with critical thinking skills and will improve their imagination? As they fall into the adventure of character, like a hedgehog who’s back...

Storytime: Horses & Ponies

Did you know that horses can sleep standing up, they have excellent hearing, can run shortly after being born, have bigger eyes than any other mammal who lives on land, and that a pony is actually just a small horse? Why of course, it’s a horse! For more fun facts...

OCTOBER Book Babies + Toddlers: Horses & Ponies

This is how the ladies ride… clippity-clop, clippity-clop. This is how the gentlemen ride… giddy-up, giddy-up. This is how the cowboys ride… Yee haw! Ride ‘em cowboy!! There are many rhymes and songs about horses which encourage parent and child communication,...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! September & October

Rhymes and spiders, duck and trucks, and cows that say, “Boo!” Look below and you will find something new for you! ​Join us Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ages 2-5 Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play Tip Using books...

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