Storytime: Expand Your World

Storytime: Expand Your World

Storytime: Expand Your World

Let’s “Expand our World” by reading around the world! The best way to expose your child to different cultures is to read books set in different areas of the world. Try some of these books or go to https://www.readbrightly.com/read-around-the-world/ for some great book suggestions. Then color the continent together and talk about similarities, differences, language, foods, that you have discovered 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

The use of small percussion instruments such as bells, rhythm sticks, shakers, and drums helps children with muscular development and coordination. -Lambert

Activity

Find, fill, and seal a plastic egg, clean vitamin bottle, or something similar for a homemade shaker. Sing and shake familiar songs together such as, “If You’re Happy and You Know it give a shake.” You can make other “percussion” instruments at home like the bottom of a bowl, or a couple of wooden spoons or chopsticks.

Books Presented

Ten Little Dumpling by Larissa Fan - Asia

In the city of Tainan, there lives a very special family — special because they have ten sons who do everything together. Their parents call them their ten little dumplings, as both sons and dumplings are auspicious. But if you look closely, you’ll see that someone else is there, listening, studying, learning and discovering her own talent — a sister. As this little girl grows up in the shadow of her brothers, her determination and persistence help her to create her own path in the world . . . and becomes the wisdom she passes on to her own daughter, her own little dumpling.

The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen - Europe

The three billy goats outsmart the hungry troll who lives under the bridge.

Making the Moose Out of Life by Nicholas Oldland - North America

This moose may live in the wild, but he doesn’t act it — he watches from the sidelines as his friends have fun. Every now and then, he wonders if he’s missing out on anything. When the moose finally takes a chance and goes on a solo sailing trip, a raging storm carries him far from everything he knows. Will he curl up in a ball and cry, or make the most of it? The moose’s unlikely hero-journey is a lighthearted, contemporary fable that celebrates living life to the fullest.

Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal - South America

When Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela asks her father why she has so many names, she hears the story of her name and learns about her grandparents.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

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
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
Clap, clap, clap my crazies out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
Jump, jump, jump my jiggles out
And wiggle my waggles away

I’ve gotta yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
Yawn, yawn, yawn my sleepies out
And wiggle my waggles away

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
And wiggle my waggles away

I Was Going to Kentucky

I was going to Kentucky
Going to the fair
to see the senorita with the flower in her hair
Oh shake it, shake it, shake it
Shake it if you can
Shake it like a milkshake
And do the best you can
Oh wobble to the bottom
and wobble to the top
And turn around and turn around
until you make a stop.

If You’re Happy and You Know It

If you’re happy and you know it, give a shake
If you’re happy and you know it and you really want to show it
If you’re happy and you know it, give a shake

Verses: Give a tap, clap your hands

Crafts and Activities

Children Around the World

Make a Mini Maraca

Make a Mini Maraca- Children use funnels (or their hands) to fill a cardboard tube with dry beans or rice. Prepare tubes by covering one end with construction paper and a tight rubber band. Provide funnels, construction paper, and a second tight rubber band. After the maraca has been filled, caregivers cover the other end, and children get to shakin’! Optionally, prepare a play list for a maraca dance party.

Additional Books

I Just Want to Say Goodnight by Rachel Isadora - Africa

In a village on the African plains, a little girl stalls bedtime by saying good night to various animals and objects.

Big Rain Coming by Katrina Germein - Australia

A lyrical story about waiting for the rain to come to an isolated Aboriginal community. Tension in the community builds as the rain clouds thicken and grow dark. Everybody waits. When will the rain come?

Be Brave Little Penguin by Giles Andreae - Antarctica

 
Pip-Pip, the littlest penguin, is teased for being afraid of the water until, with his mother’s guidance, he finally jumps in.

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

Illustrations and simple, rhyming text introduce a school where diversity is celebrated and songs, stories, and talents are shared.

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...

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Friends Forever

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Friends Forever

JULY Book Babies + Toddler Time: Friends Forever

Let’s make friends! Toddlers and infants, despite their stage of individual play, can begin the process of making friends. Babies observe facial expressions. Toddlers begin learning how to share. All of these stages lead to social and emotional growth, so have fun finding new ways for baby to make a new friend!

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

One of the things that happens when you sing simple nursery rhymes to your children is that they gain practice listening to simple sentence structures. Hearing the same short sentences over and over helps children recognize the patterns that our sentences form.

Activity

Pick a favorite nursery rhyme and sing it with baby each day for a month. Notice how her eyes light up when you sing it at the end of the month.

Books Presented

My Friends Make Me Happy by Jan Thomas

Invites readers to guess, along with Sheep’s friends, the mysterious thing that starts with the letter F that makes Sheep happy.

Croc & Turtle!: The Bestest Friends Ever! by Mike Wohnoutka

 
Although other animals are better at lifting, jumping, and running, Croc and Turtle discover something they are best at.

Curly's Friends by Phil Roxbee Cox

Your child will love to stroke Curly the pig as you read this simple story.

If You're Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend! by Eric Litwin

Set to the rhythm of the classic children’s song, Groovy Joe invites the reader to laugh, sing, explore, and best of all, hug a friend.

Do You Want to Be My Friend? by Eric Carle

A mouse searches everywhere for a friend.

Spot's New Friend by Eric Hill

When Spot goes on vacation with his family, he worries that he won’t have anyone to play with, until he meets Alice the kangaroo and makes a new friend.

Hello, New Friend! by Patty Michaels

With text adapted from the hit “Hello Song,” young readers will love meeting their favorite characters from their favorite show: CoComelon! There’s JJ; his brother, TomTom; his sister, YoYo; his friends Cody, Nina, and CeCe; his mom and dad; and Ms. Appleberry, his preschool teacher!

Baby's Best Friend by Suzanne Curley

Rhyming text and photographs celebrate the special bond between babies and their puppies

Ollie's Hug by Olivier Dunrea

When Ollie is in a grumpy mood and nothing feels right, a hug from a friend does the trick! The perfect board book for little kids with big feelings.

How Do Dinosaurs Play With Their Friends? by Jane Yolen

 
Rhyming text and illustrations present some of the ways dinosaurs can play with their friends, from hogging the swings to sharing toys.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

I’m Your Little Friend

tune: I’m a Little Teapot
I’m your little friend who likes to hide
Up and down, and side to side
When I get all warmed up, watch me run
Find me now and have some fun

Tick Tock, Tick Tock

Tick tock, tick tock, (rock baby back and forth)
I’m a little cuckoo clock
Tick tock, tick tock, it’s 1 o’clock!
Cuckoo! (lift baby up in air or raise baby’s arms)
Tick tock, tick tock, (rock baby back and forth)
I’m a little cuckoo clock
Tick tock, tick tock, it’s 2 o’clock!
Cuckoo! Cuckoo!

Credit: https://kcls.org/content/tick-tock-tick-tock-im-a-little-cuckoo-clock/

Will You Be My Friend Today?

Will you be my friend today, friend today, friend today?
Will you be my friend today? Come and play!
Verses:
Clap your hands with me today…
Stomp your feet with me today…
Turn around with me today…
Shout hooray with me today…
Yes, you are my friend today…

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: Science that Serves

Storytime: Science that Serves

Storytime: Science that Serves

“S” is for science! We love science and so do children. And when a child observes how it serves a community or an individual, it’s even better! There are multiple non-fiction and picture books which introduce a child to science concepts. After reading one of these books, resist the urge to just put it down. Take the opportunity to talk about how the character worked with others using science to solve a problem. You can also talk about the scientific method of, 1) Observation, 2) Question, 3) Predict, 4) Experiment, 5) Record. and 6) Share.

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 can help you with measuring things in all kinds of ways- in deciding whether something will fit in a certain space, in cooking, and in making things. Understanding the concept of measuring begins to develop one of the mathematical skills children will need in school. – Lambert

Activity

Activity- Read, “Bigger Than You,” by Hyewon Kyung with your child, and then practice the concept bigger and smaller with toys, dishes, or anything else. You could also make a simple balance scale such as this one at https://www.thoughtco.com/kid-science-make-a-balance-scale-2086574, and practice play using the scale.

Books Presented

Bigger Than You by Hyewon Kyung

 
Young dinosaurs take turns playing on a seesaw until a Tyrannosaurus interrupts their game with a temper tantrum. Includes chart showing relative sizes of dinosaurs and information about simple machines.

That's My Carrot by Il Sung Na

When two rabbits find a giant carrot growing between their yards, they do the only thing that makes sense: they argue over whose carrot it is! One rabbit brings a shovel to dig it out, and the other rabbit brings a spade. Next comes the bulldozers and backhoes and cranes … and when the dust settles, the carrot is gone! Now, it will be up to the rabbits to join forces and find the giant carrot, and build a friendship along the way.

Mary Had a Little Lab by Sue Fliess

Hoping for a friend, Mary invents a way to make a sheep, but when she starts making sheep for her new friends, chaos abounds

How To Code a Sandcastle by Josh Funk

Pearl and her trusty rust-proof robot, Pascal, need to build a sandcastle before summer vacation is over, and they’re going to do it using code

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Sheep in the Bathtub

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

Two sheep in the bathtub…
Three sheep in the bathtub…
Four sheep in the bathtub…

And they all FELL IN!

adapted from https://kcls.org/content/one-elephant-in-the-bathtub/

Ten Little Bubbles

One little, two little, three little bubbles;
Four little, five little, six little bubbles;
Seven little, eight little, nine little bubbles;
Ten little bubbles to POP! (clap hands)

Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop those bubbles;
Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop those bubbles;
Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop those bubbles;
All the little bubbles go POP! (Clap)

Ten little, nine little, eight little bubbles;
Seven little, six little, five little bubbles;
Four little, three little, two little bubbles;
And one little bubble goes POP! (clap)

Credit: http://www.adventuresinstorytime.com/2017/09/numbers.html

Crunchy Carrots

Five crunchy carrots growing in the ground,
Along came a bunny without a sound! (whisper)
She pulled on a top as hard as she could,
Out came a carrot! Mmm, it was good! (rub belly)

Repeat until none left

No crunchy carrots growing in the ground,
Along comes a farmer making quite a sound!

Credit: https://storytimeinthestacks.com/2019/08/09/flannel-friday-crunchy-carrots/

Crafts and Activities

S is for Science

Carrot Patch Craft

Precut orange triangles and green strips out of construction paper. Provide glue and blank paper for children to make carrot art. Ask them to number their carrots. Provide safety scissors for older preschoolers to practice cutting out their own shapes. (For a flower theme, precut circles for flowers instead of carrots.)

Additional Books

Goldilocks and the Three Engineers by Sue Fliess

When Goldilocks, an inventor, goes for a walk seeking inspiration, three bear engineers visit her bungalow and see that her inventions need a little work to be just right.

Charlotte the Scientist Finds a Cure by Camille Andros

Charlotte, a budding bunny scientist, ignores the doubters and confidently finds a cure to the mysterious malady affecting the forest

Boxitects by Kim Smith

Meg goes to Maker School to hone her talent for building with boxes, but when Simone, another boxitect, arrives they become so competitive they nearly fail in the annual Maker Match

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

 
A young aspiring engineer must first conquer her fear of failure.

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: Community Connections

Storytime: Community Connections

Storytime: Community Connections

Do you know the people in your neighborhood? Try drawing an appreciation picture or letter together and giving it to a fire fighter, police officer, dentist, doctor, nurse, school teacher, postal worker, librarian, hair stylist, veterinarian, pizza delivery driver, or your neighbor. Community connections can start with 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

By joyfully watching other children follow directions and applauding their success, you are teaching your child an important social skill- how to appreciate other people. Being successful in school requires more than being able to do academic work. It also involves knowing how to get along with other children, how to wait your turn, and how to be part of a classroom community.

Activity

When attending a group activity such as story time, show your child how to compliment or appreciate another child’s efforts and success or how to wait patiently in line for the craft. Then talk about it and why appreciation and mutual respect are important to everyone in a community.

Books Presented

Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook

Teach your little one about a wide spectrum of careers with this playful guess-and-reveal picture book—perfect for reading aloud with preschool-age children and up!

Harlem Grown by Tony Hillery

Once there was a lot full of trash. Now there is a lush, green farm. This is the story of Harlem Grown, a garden in New York City

Hot Pot Night by Vincent Chen

In this version of the classic tale, nobody in the apartment building has enough ingredients for dinner–so a child suggests that they have a community hot pot night. Everybody contributes something, bringing their diverse community together for a delicious meal. Includes a recipe for hot pot.

The 12 Days of Kindness by Jenna Lettice

Count out twelve ways to celebrate and honor our friends, family, neighbors, and first responders with small acts of kindness

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Walking to Town

As I was walking to town one day,
I met a ________ along the way and what do you think the _______ did say?
STOP! ____________

I Can Help My Friends

Tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.”
I can help my friends
Each and every day.
When they need me I am there
To help them learn and play

My Hands are for Helping
Linda Conrad

My hands are for helping 
My hands are for holding
My hands are for clapping 
when I hear a happy song

My hands are for caring, 
My hands are for sharing
My hands are for kindness, 
not doing harm

I control my hands 
’cause they’re a part of me
I have absolute control of the body parts on me

My hands are for helping, 
My hands are for holding
My hands are for kindness 
not doing harm

Crafts and Activities

B is for Books

Fire Department

Visit the fire department

Additional Books

It Fell From the Sky by Terry Fan

All the insects agree that the object that fell from the sky is a Wonder, but when Spider decides it is his, he risks losing all of his friends.

Whose Hands Are These?: A Community Helper Guessing Book by Miranda Paul

If your hands can mix and mash, what job might you have?
Hands can wiggle, hands can clap.
Hands can wrap and flap and tap.
But hands can help―so raise yours, please!
Can you guess? Whose hands are these?
What if your hands reach, wrench, yank, and crank? The hands in this book―and the people attached to them―do all sorts of helpful work. And together, these helpers make their community a safe and fun place to live.

The Little Things: A Story About Acts of Kindness by Christian Trimmer

A little girl’s small act of kindness after a storm spreads throughout her town so that the next time there is a storm, her community comes together to make a big difference.

You Are a Beautiful Beginning by Nina Laden

Children play cooperatively in a forest, and their stick creations draw the interest of small gnome-like creatures, who make their own additions.

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: Friends Forever

Storytime: Friends Forever

Storytime: Friends Forever

Making friends is easy for some children and difficult for others. Try reading some of these books or doing a subject search on the library catalog for books to read and talk about with your child. Pay attention to how character friends resolve conflicts, work and play together, and perhaps how they met each other. For further information, you might consider reading this article, 6 ways to help your preschooler connect with other kids, at Understood.org.

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

Sharing books that talk about how characters behave in various kinds of relationships can help children think about their own behavior and how they interact with others. Take the opportunity books offer to talk about what your child thinks and what they might do.

Activity

Read “Lubna and the Pebble” by Wendy Meddour or another book that encourages talk about relationships. After reading the book with your child, talk about what the characters thought of each other. What changed?

Books Presented

My Friends Make Me Happy! by Jan Thomas

Invites readers to guess, along with Sheep’s friends, the mysterious thing that starts with the letter F that makes Sheep happy.

Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour

Lubna’s best friend is a pebble. Pebble always listens to her stories. Pebble always smiles when she feels scared. But when a lost little boy arrives in the World of Tents, Lubna realizes that he needs Pebble even more than she does.

Stick and Stone by Beth Ferry

Stick and Stone are both lonely until Pinecone’s teasing causes one to stick up for the other, and a solid friendship is formed.

Goodbye, friend! Hello, friend! by Cori Doerrfeld

Two best friends understand that saying goodbye to one experience means saying hello to the next, but that does not make it easier when one friend has to move away.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Will you be my friend today?

Will you be my friend today, friend today, friend today?
Will you be my friend today? Come and play!

Verses:
Clap your hands with me today…
Stomp your feet with me today…
Turn around with me today…
Shout hooray with me today…
Yes, you are my friend today…

Our Good Friend

Tune: Bingo
________ is so very happy.
She/he is our good friend.
F-R-I, E-N-D, F-R-I, E-N-D,
F-R-I, E-N-D
And she/he is our good friend.

Crafts and Activities

F is for Friends

Sticker Story Book

This paper crown made of people holding hands is a fun craft that kids can do while learning themes on friendship, people around the world and community helpers.

Additional Books

Bear Can't Wait by Karma Wilson

As final preparations are being made for a long-planned surprise party, Bear gets so excited he nearly ruins everything.

Harold & Hog Pretend for Real! by Dan Santat

Can the friendship of best friends Harold and Hog, a carefree elephant and a careful hog, survive a game of pretending to be Mo Willems’s Elephant and Piggie?

The Squirrels Who Squabbled by Rachel Bright

Told in rhyming text Cyril and Bruce, two squirrels, are each determined to get the last pinecone of autumn; but when they fall into the river, they learn that sometimes it is essential to work together–and, in any case, a bird got the floating pinecone

Mabel: A Mermaid Fable by Rowboat Watkins

A picture book about a mermaid named Mabel, who unlike the rest of her family does not have a moustache, and the seven-armed octopus who becomes her friend and helps her see that she is just right the way she is

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...

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Let’s Watch the Weather Together!

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Let’s Watch the Weather Together!

JUNE Book Babies + Toddler Time: Let’s Watch the Weather Together!

Watching the weather change with the seasons can be fun for baby and you! When getting ready in the morning, talk about the weather and why baby is wearing warm pants and boots or a cool sun shirt, shorts and sandals. You can also associate the seasons to colors such as white for winter, green for spring, yellow for summer, and orange for fall. This will help baby see personal associations to the world around them.

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

Weather and seasons are things that your child experience and can relate to. Try using their experiences to talk about the science behind weather, like thunder. Sometimes, we ourselves, don’t know all the facts, but we can find out right along with our children by using the books in the library. Simple scientific knowledge about everyday events gives children a strong foundation for later school learning. – Lambert

Activity

Sing together the call and response rhyme, “I Hear Thunder,” using hand movements to the tune of “Are your sleeping?”

Books Presented

Mouse Seasons by Leo Lionni

Two mice talk about where the seasons come from.

Have You Seen Duck? by Janet A. Holmes

When Duck goes missing, a boy’s favorite activities lose their appeal and he comes to know that he needs Duck just as much as Duck needs him.

Tree: A Peek-Through Picture Book by Patricia Hegarty

A book with peek-through holes that let a child view the changes in a tree throughout the four seasons

Five Little Ducks by Teri Weidner

A duck with a feather on his back leads his siblings with a “quack, quack, quack.” End notes list the benefits of children’s poems and songs.

Over in the Garden by Jennifer Ward

 
Over in the garden, mother insects and their children enjoy various activities from morning sun to evening moon.

Mouse's First Summer by Lauren Thompson

Mouse and Minka invite you to celebrate summer with a picnic in the park. Roll down the hill on tickly green grass. Fly fluttery kites high in the sky. Enjoy some juicy watermelon! And before it’s time to go home, a summer surprise sparkles in the sky.

Baby Loves Fall! by Karen Katz

What does Baby see? Lift the flaps to see the activities of fall.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar's First Winter by Eric Carle

A little caterpillar shows the best ways to spend a snowy winter day.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Bounce and Bounce and Bounce and Stop

Tune: Skip to my Lou
Bounce and bounce and bounce and stop.
Bounce and bounce and bounce and stop.
Bounce and bounce and bounce and stop.
Now bounce that baby up to the top! (lift baby)

A Farmer Went Trotting

A farmer went trotting
[Bounce baby on lap, facing you]
Upon his gray mare
With his daughter behind him
So rosy and fair
Then a duck cried out, “Quack!”
[Lift baby up]
And they all tumbled down
[Plop baby back into your lap]
Off of the horse
And upside down!
[Tip baby gently backwards!]

Five Little Ducks

Five little ducks went out one day
Over the hills and far away
When the mama duck said
Quack, quack, quack!
Four little ducks came waddling back…
(Continue counting down to zero)
But when the daddy duck went, “Quack, quack, quack!”
Five little ducks came waddling back!

I Hear Thunder

Tune: Are you sleeping?
I hear thunder; I hear thunder. (Put your hand over one ear and then the other.)
Hark, don’t you? Hark, don’t you? (Point to someone else.)
Pitter-patter raindrops; pitter-patter raindrops. (Pat knees quickly.)
I’m wet through. I’m wet through. (Hug yourself.)

Walking To Town

As I was walking to town one day,
I met a ________ along the way and what do you think the _______ did say? STOP! ____________

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: “B” is for Books

Storytime: “B” is for Books

Storytime: “B” is for Books

Celebrate books and National Library Week with a book, song, or an activity about reading or loving the library.

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

When your children have happy experiences, they want to repeat them. Starting kindergarten can be an extension of informal library “classes.” Children who have had a joyful experiences in the public library often approach school with a positive attitude, ready and excited to learn. -Lambert

Activity

Sing, “If You’re a Reader and You Know It,” library style with your child, following the lyrics of the song and join in with the motions.

Books Presented

Penelope Popper Book Doctor by Toni Buzzeo

In all corners of the library, there are books that need care and Penelope immediately dedicates herself to learning how to mend them.

We Are in a Book by Mo Willems

 
Gerald and Piggie discover the joy of being read. But what will happen when the book ends?

A Book for Escargot by Dashka Slater

Bored with eating salad, our French snail hero peruses the library stacks, looking for a cookbook.

Chicken Storytime by Sandy Asher

 
Storytime in the library becomes increasingly chaotic as first one chicken then a whole flock joins in and the librarian must come up with a creative solution so that everyone can enjoy the story.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Storytime! Storytime!

Storytime! Storytime!
Take a look
What will we find in the (color, genre) book?

If You’re a Reader and You Know It

If you’re a reader and you know it, clap your hands
If you’re a reader and you know it, clap your hands
If you’re a reader and you know it, and you really want to show it
If you’re a reader and you know it, clap your hands
(shout hooray, read a book)

Five Little Books

Five little books at the library
Five little books as great as can be
Along comes (name) with their library card
To take one home to read

Crafts and Activities

B is for Books

Sticker Story Book

Try making one of these easy books with your child. You can use stickers to decorate it or have them draw their own illustrations.

Additional Books

Sarah & Duck at the Library by Sarah Gomes Harris

Meet Sarah and Duck! This brilliantly quirky pairing offer an alternative look at the world as they head off on adventures together. This picture book sees them trying to cheer up Scarf Lady’s Donkey — with mixed results!

Library Lion by Michelle Knudson

 
A lion starts visiting the local library but runs into trouble as he tries to both obey the rules and help his librarian friend. Miss Merriweather, the head librarian, is very particular about rules in the library. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But when a lion comes to the library one day, no one is sure what to do. There aren’t any rules about lions in the library. And, as it turns out, this lion seems very well suited to library visiting. His big feet are quiet on the library floor. He makes a comfy backrest for the children at story hour. And he never roars in the library, at least not anymore. But when something terrible happens, the lion quickly comes to the rescue in the only way he knows how. Michelle Knudsen’s disarming story, illustrated by the matchless Kevin Hawkes in an expressive timeless style, will win over even the most ardent of rule keepers.

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

In this book with no pictures, the reader has to say every silly word, no matter what–

Open Very Carefully by Nicola O'Byrne

 
A crocodile falls into a quiet storybook and wreaks havoc on the characters, in a tale that invites youngsters to slam the book shut or find the courage to take a peek inside.

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: “B” is for Bees

Storytime: “B” is for Bees

Storytime: “B” is for Bees

To bee or not to bee, that is the question! Did you know that one honey bee, in its entire life-span, will make only one teaspoon of honey? Explore the world of bees with these books and activities, and then talk with your child why bees are SO important to our ecosystem, and what to do if they see a bee.

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

Rhymes and songs that involve sequencing and memory can help children prepare for school. In the “Bee in the Box,” listen for a certain phrase, and then react to it with a large physical movement. In addition to having fun, your child is actually developing their gross motor skills.

Activity

Ask your child to join you in pretending to climb into a box and shut the lid. It’s very dark inside! Turn the handle and begin reciting the rhyme, Bee in the Box. On the last line, pop out of the box and “buzz” around the room!

Books Presented

Bees! by Elizabeth Winchester

Get the inside scoop on the world’s most fascinating creatures! Meet a beekeeper. Peek inside a beehive. Find out how some bees make honey. Learn more than thirty fun facts about these busy insects.

Bee-wigged by Cece Bell

Jerry, a large bee who longs to have friends, finds that by putting on a wig he can pass for a boy, until one day while he is leading the annual school parade the wind starts blowing very hard.

A Bear, a Bee, and a Honey Tree by Daniel Bernstrom

When a hungry, fuzzy brown bear and a hive of angry bees come face to face, everybody’s abuzz!

The Hidden Rainbow by Christie Matheson

Illustrations and simple, rhyming text invite the reader to uncover the rainbow of colors hidden in a garden, which helps flowers bloom and bees find food. Includes facts about bees and their importance.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Bee in the Box

Bee in the ____ box sitting so still.
Will he come out?
Yes, he will!
*red, blue, yellow, green

5 Busy Honey Bees

Five busy honey bees were resting in the sun.
The first one said, “Let us have some fun.”
The second one said, “Where shall it be?”
The third one said, “In the honey tree.”
The fourth one said, “Let’s make some honey sweet.”
The fifth one said, “With pollen on our feet.”
The five little busy bees sang their buzzing tune,
As they worked in the beehive all that afternoon.
Bzzzzzz! Bzzzzzz! Bzzzzzz! Bzzzzzz! Bzzzzzz!

Crafts and Activities

B is for Bees

Make a Bee headband

Additional Books

What Does the Bee See? by Soo-hyeon Kim

A little bee encounters objects and guesses what they might be until the whole is revealed. Children will develop observation, logical thinking and imagination skills by following the bee through the story.

A Season to Bee: a Stylish Book of Colors by Carlos Aponte

Fashion illustrator Carlos Aponte gives readers front row seats to the runway show of the season! Join Miss V. McQueen and her band of fashion bugs as they flit and flutter their brilliant colors down the catwalk. Ladybug reds, butterfly golds, and grasshopper greens provide young readers with a chic introduction to the colors found all around us

Beware! by Bob Raczka

Using words made up of only the five letters “beware,” a little bear named Abe and a bee named Bree, who have been warned about each other, compete for the flowers in their meadow, but end up as friends willing to put aside their differences and share

Bee Friendly Charlotte by Andrea Kaczmarek

Charlotte decides to make a bee-friendly garden, to protect her insect friends!

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: “B” is for Bananas

Storytime: “B” is for Bananas

Storytime: “B” is for Bananas

One banana, two bananas, three bananas, four! Did you know that a cluster of bananas is called a ‘hand’, while a single banana is called a ‘finger’? Or that a strawberry is not a berry, but a banana is. As your child learns the sound for the letter “B”, try out some of these activities about bananas, then explore with a new banana recipe 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

Children love to count and “uncount” things, and books are a great tool to encourage this skill which helps to them develop their sense of numbers.

Activity

Try reading a book like, Counting Crocodiles, by Judy Sierra or another counting book. You could act out the story with the monkey and alligators, or turn it in to a fingerplay!

Books Presented

Counting Crocodiles by Judy Sierra

 
In this rhymed retelling of a traditional Asian tale, a clever monkey uses her ability to count to outwit the hungry crocodiles that stand between her and a banana tree on another island across the sea.

Pete the Cat and the Bad Banana by James Dean

 
Pete the Cat bites into a bad banana and vows never to eat bananas again, even though he generally likes the fruit.

Why the Banana Split: An Adventure in Idioms by Rick Walton

 
The people and objects of a town panic and flee when they see a Tyrannosaurus rex approaching, but they discover that only the bananas have anything to fear from this fruit-eating dinosaur.

My Dog Banana by Roxane Brouillard

In a park, a child walks a banana on the end of a leash. This unusual thing, to say the least, attracts the attention of passers-by who gather around. A long discussion ensues where people try to understand why the child is walking a banana, while the child tries to make them understand that the banana is a dog. More precisely, a dog-banana.

 

 

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Bananas! Bananas!

Bananas! Bananas!
I’m looking for bananas!
I’m looking for bananas in the blue* pajamas!
*red, yellow, green, purple, orange

5 Yellow Bananas

5 yellow bananas, and not one more.
The monkey ate one, & then there were 4.

4 yellow bananas, so yummy to see.
The monkey ate one, & then there were 3.

3 yellow bananas, & he knew what to do.
The monkey ate one, & then there were 2.

2 yellow bananas, hanging in the sun.
The monkey ate one, & then there was 1.

1 yellow banana, well for goodness sake.
The monkey ate that one, & he got a tummy ache.

Now there are no little bananas hanging on the tree.
Monkey, your tummy wouldn’t hurt if you had shared them with me!

Crafts and Activities

B is for Banana

Make a banana from a paper plate

Additional Books

Piranhas Don't Eat Bananas by Aaron Blabey

Told in rhyming text, Brian tries to get his fellow piranhas to try his fruit and vegetable platter, but they all prefer meat–like those human feet dangling in the water.

Three Bite Rule by Anne Lamb

When Grumpy Toad claims he doesn’t eat bananas, Pete the Cat encourages Grumpy to try the banana casserole Pete brought for the class potluck.

Grumpy Monkey Ready, Set, Bananas! by Suzanne Lang

Jim Panzee begrudgingly agrees to help Tortoise enter the big race.

Barry The Banana Has a Party by Jade Maitre

Barry the Banana is having a great party – until a monkey comes along!

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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