JULY Kid and Tween Activities

JULY Kid and Tween Activities

JULY Kid and Tween Activities

Summer Reading

Final month of Summer Reading – last day to sign-up is July 24th and program ends July 31st. 

Each year, from June through July, we host Summer Reading. We have programs for all ages. 

The 2021 Summer Reading Theme is “Tails and Tales.” The possibilities are endless!

You won’t want to miss our Summer STEM program for ages 6-11! Unlike the rest of the year, starting June 15th we have a new activity every single week through the end of July! Pick them up at the Front Circulation Desk while supplies last.

Craft instructions will be available on our website and on our YouTube Channel.


July 6: Food Web Puzzle Game

July 13: Exploding Soap
July 20: UV Sensitive Animal Building Challenge
July 27: Animal Coding Game

Earn a gorilla!

Fill out the online form below and upload a photo of your child doing one of our STEM activities. Then come to the Children’s Reference Desk and talk to a librarian to take one of the gorillas in the children’s area home!

1 per child while gorillas last; for ages 6-11. 

Our Summer STEM from Your Library program is made possible by our sponsors: the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho STEM Action Center. A big thank you to them for their support!

Meghan Casey and Rocky Mountain Puppets presents:
Tall Tales of the Lost Temple

Monday, July 12  at Porter Park in the Beehive Pavilion. 

Two performances at 10:30a.m. and 6:30p.m.

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs for a special presentation and puppet show by Rocky Mountain Puppets! Meghan Casey is an award winning ventriloquist who entertains audiences all over the country. Join us as she presents a unique program based on the Summer Reading 2021 theme, “Tails and Tales.”

This event is sponsored by the Madison Library Foundation.

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

December 2024 Programs for All Ages

Winter Safe DrivingFirst time driving on snowy winter roads? Madison Library District is partnering with the Idaho Department of Transportation and the Idaho State Police to keep you safe this winter! Learn strategies to stay on the road, deal with slipping and...

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...

October Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGallop into Story Time fun this October! Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months) on Mondays & Tuesdays at 9:30 AM and Book Babies (ages 0-9 months) on Wednesdays at 9:30 AM will both feature “Clippity-clop, on a horse and pony we’ll hop!” Note: there will be no...

September 2024 Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJoin us for Story Time fun at Madison Library District! Book Babies (0-9 months) Wednesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room September theme: "Feelings... Big and Small!" Toddler Time (10-23 months) Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM September theme:...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

May Programs for All Ages

Miss Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks For ParentsAre you ready to make reading a fun adventure for your child this summer? Join us for Miss. Wendy's Reading Tips & Tricks for Parents class! Discover simple, game-like reading activities that will help strengthen...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Summer STEM: Toothbrush Critters

Summer STEM: Toothbrush Critters

Our Summer STEM from Your Library program is made possible by our sponsors: the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho STEM Action Center. A big thank you to them for their support!

Learn about circuits while making a neat little bot critter that vibrates!

Materials needed:

  • Toothbrush
  • (2) 3 volt coin battery
  • 10 mm coin cell phone charger or page motor
  • 2-3 mm LED bulbs
  • Glue dots
  • Painter’s or masking tape
  • Scissors

This craft was inspired by this post by Cub Scout Ideas

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

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...

October Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGallop into Story Time fun this October! Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months) on Mondays & Tuesdays at 9:30 AM and Book Babies (ages 0-9 months) on Wednesdays at 9:30 AM will both feature “Clippity-clop, on a horse and pony we’ll hop!” Note: there will be no...

September 2024 Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJoin us for Story Time fun at Madison Library District! Book Babies (0-9 months) Wednesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room September theme: "Feelings... Big and Small!" Toddler Time (10-23 months) Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM September theme:...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

Story Time: Big and Tall

Story Time: Big and Tall

Story Time: Big and Tall

Stories and activities about large animals.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Practicing fine motor skills, such as making small finger motions while singing a song, helps develop your child’s coordination. Four-year old children have greater control of their fingers and hands than younger children do. Songs such as “Open Them, Shut Them” are easier for three-, four-, and five-year olds than for younger children because children develop greater coordination and control of small movements as they age. 

Activity

Encourage children to use their hands and fingers to follow the directions to the song, “Open Them, Shut Them.” 

Open them, shut them, open them, shut them,
Give a little clap.
Open them, shut them, open them, shut them,
Put them in your lap.

Creep them, creep them, creep them, creep them
Right up to your chin.
Open up your little mouth… (pause)
But do not let them in! (shake finger)

Books Presented

Hiccupotamus by Steve Smallman

The jungle animals are having a musical celebration! Mouse squeaks, Bird tweets, and Centipede taps his feet. Then more animals hear the music and want to join in, as Monkey, Warthog, and Crocodile bring their own music-making talents to the group. But what is that silly Hippo doing?

Who Eats Orange? by Dianne White

Who eats orange—a chicken? A bunny? A bear? Find out in this unique exploration of colors and animals’ favorite foods.

Animals eat a rainbow of different foods. Gorillas in the mountains eat green, octopi in the ocean eat red, and toucans in the canopy eat purple. Young animal enthusiasts will love digging into this lively journey around the world to explore the colorful diets of many animals, from the familiar to the exotic.

Giraffe Problems by Jory John

Can you guess what’s making this giraffe self-conscious? Could it be . . . HIS ENORMOUS NECK?? Yes, it’s exactly that–how on earth did you figure it out?

Edward the giraffe can’t understand why his neck is as long and bendy and, well, ridiculous as it is. No other animal has a neck this absurd. He’s tried disguising it, dressing it up, strategically hiding it behind bushes–honestly, anything you can think of, he’s tried.

Just when he has exhausted his neck-hiding options and is about to throw in the towel, a turtle swoops in (well, ambles in, very slowly) and helps him understand that his neck has a purpose, and looks excellent in a bow tie.

Can Somebody Please Scratch My Back? by Jory John

Persnickety Elephant has an itch–a big one–and he can’t reach it! While he isn’t above asking for a little help, no one is up to the task. Turtle is too lazy, Snail is too slimy, and Alligator… well, Elephant isn’t sure he wants his assistance. Does Elephant have to do everything himself?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Elephants in the Bathtub

One elephant in the bathtub
Going for a swim
Knock, knock (clap twice)
Splash, splash (slap knees twice)
Come on in! (motion with both hands to come in)

(count up from 1-5)
Five elephants in the bathtub
Going for a swim
Knock, knock (clap twice)
Splash, splash (slap knees twice)
It all fell in! (knock the felt pieces down)

The Jungle Song

Tiger, tiger, orange and black,
He’s got stripes upon his back.
When he growls, sharp teeth I see.
He’s as scary as can be!
Tiger, tiger, orange and black,
He’s got stripes upon his back.

Elephant, elephant, large and grey
Swings his trunk along the way.
His ears are big, his tusks are white,
Don’t be scared, he doesn’t bite!
Elephant, elephant, large and grey,
Swings his trunk along the way.

Crocodile, crocodile, long and green,
The sharpest teeth you’ve ever seen.
His legs are short, his mouth is wide,
Get too close and you’ll be inside!
Crocodile, crocodile, long and green,
The sharpest teeth you’ve ever seen.

Giraffe, giraffe, so very tall,
He spreads out his legs so he won’t fall.
He eats leaves from the tops of the trees,
His long neck helps him reach them with ease!
Giraffe, giraffe, so very tall,
He spreads out his legs so he won’t fall.

Hippopotamus, wallows and lies,
In the mud right up to his eyes.
Wallowing in the muddy pool,
Keeps his skin so very cool.
Hippopotamus, wallows and lies,
In the mud right up to his eyes.

Lion, lion mighty and strong.
With a very loud roar and a mane so long.
A lioness has no mane,
Acub is a baby lion’s name.
Lion, lion mighty and strong.
With a very loud roar and a mane so long.

If You’re an Elephant and You Know It!

To the tune “If You’re Happy and You Know It”

If you’re an elephant and you know it, 
Stomp your feet!

If you’re an elephant and you know it, 
Stomp your feet!

If you’re an elephant and you know it,
And you really want to show it,

If you’re an elephant and you know it, 
Stomp your feet!

Other options:
Monkey – jump up and down
Crocodile – snap your jaws
Lion – give a roar! 

I Know a Giraffe

To the tune “On Top of Old Smokey”

I know a giraffe.
With a neck that’s real high.
She stretches and stretches
Til it reaches the sky.
She lives on the plains
With the elephants too
You might also see her when you go to the zoo.

Crafts and Activities

Elephant Nose Craft

Have fun making this silly elephant trunk craft!

Additional Books

Abigail by Catherine Rayner

Abigail the giraffe wants to count the spots on her animal friends, Ladybug, Zebra, and Cheetah, but when they move too fast for counting, Abigail comes up with a new plan.

A Big Guy Took My Ball! by Mo Willems

Piggie is upset because a whale took the ball she found, but Gerald finds a solution that pleases all of them.

Boa's Bad Birthday by Jeanne Willis

It was Boa’s birthday.
It was going to be the best one ever.
Or so he hoped. 

He invited his friends round.
They would all bring him wonderful presents.
Or would they?

The Short Giraffe by Neil Flory

Geri is the shortest giraffe in the herd, which causes all kinds of problems when Boba the baboon tries to take a photo. Can Geri stretch up tall enough to be in the picture? Or are the other giraffes looking at things from the wrong perspective? A very sweet story for preschoolers about difference and acceptance.

Jangles: A BIG Fish Story by Davin Shannon

Breathtaking oil paintings bursting with energy pull readers along into Big Lake, the home of Jangles, the biggest fish anyone has seen. Fishing alone at dusk, a boy feels a tug on his line and comes face-to-face with the gigantic trout–whose enormous jaw is covered with so many lures and fish hooks that he jingles and jangles when he swims. Terrified by the sight, the boy is shocked when Jangles befriends him and takes him on an adventure to the bottom of the lake. A surprise ending will leave readers laughing and shaking their heads. Here is Shannon at his very best-in a wild and witty story that begs repeated reading.

More Story Times

Storytime: S is for Soup

Soup is always a good idea! Not only is it delicious and comforting on a cold, chilly day, but making it together with your child becomes a recipe for learning and development experiences. These can include nutritional awareness, healthy eating habits, enhanced motor...

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in November

New things can be exciting. New friends, new shoes, or a brand new year. Check out these books that are new to the library. You might find a new favorite. ​ ​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,...

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 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...

Summer STEM: Outdoor Art

Summer STEM: Outdoor Art

Our Summer STEM from Your Library program is made possible by our sponsors: the Idaho Commission for Libraries and the Idaho STEM Action Center. A big thank you to them for their support!

How tall is a giraffe? Find out with the Outdoor Kit! Have even more fun creating birds from items you find in nature.

Materials needed:

  • String – 5 yards
  • Sidewalk chalk
  • Bird template
  • Flowers, leaves, sticks, etc found in nature

This craft was inspired by this post from EdVentures With Kids

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

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...

October Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGallop into Story Time fun this October! Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months) on Mondays & Tuesdays at 9:30 AM and Book Babies (ages 0-9 months) on Wednesdays at 9:30 AM will both feature “Clippity-clop, on a horse and pony we’ll hop!” Note: there will be no...

September 2024 Activities for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJoin us for Story Time fun at Madison Library District! Book Babies (0-9 months) Wednesdays at 9:30 AM in the Community Room September theme: "Feelings... Big and Small!" Toddler Time (10-23 months) Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30 AM September theme:...

July 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and keep smashing our reading goals! The second prizes for every level will be...

June 2024 Kid & Tween Activities

Summer Reading 2024Adventure Begins at Your Library with Summer Reading 2024! This annual program is designed for all ages to read every day, participate in special Library programs, and stay active all summer long! Sign-ups begin on Monday, June 3rd, either online or...

April 2024 Kids & Tween Activities

National Library Week Book Nook ContestStep into a world of tiny wonders during National Library Week! Our Book Nook Contest invites you to explore Small Adventures to Amazing Places! From fantastical realms to cozy real-world corners, you may create a miniature...

Kid & Tween Activities March 2024

Story TimeJoin us in March for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time! This month we’re celebrating author-illustrator, Eric Carle! Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Toddler Time (ages 10-23...

Kid & Tween Activities February 2024

Story TimeJoin us in February for a world of imagination and learning at Story Time!  Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter V! Explore Veggies, Valentine’s Day, Violins, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and...

January Kid & Tween Activities

Story Time Preschool Story Time (ages 2-5): It’s all about the Letter D! Explore Dance, Dinosaurs, Dirt, Disguises, and Something NEW, Just For You! Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10:30 AM  Toddler Time (ages 10-23 months): Dive into the exciting world of dinosaurs with...

Book Babies/Toddler Time: Old McDonald’s Farm

Book Babies/Toddler Time: Old McDonald’s Farm

Book Babies/Toddler Time: Old McDonald’s Farm

What does a cow say? Mooo! Animal sounds are a precursor to speech development and are easy sounds for a baby to form. So, have fun with those farm animals and watch your baby’s eyes light up when you quack like a duck or neigh like a horse!

Book Babies: Wednesday @ 9:45am in Community Room

Ages 0 – 10 months

Toddler Time: Tuesday @ 9:45am 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

Make Books a Part of Your Daily Routine The more that books are woven into children’s everyday lives, the more likely they will be to see reading as a pleasure and a gift.

Activity

At Meal Times Sing or read a story during a moment of quiet nursing or to gather the kids around the noisy breakfast table.

- www.zerotothree.org

Books Presented

Snappy Little Farmyard by Dugald Steer

 A day on the farm has never been quite so much fun — or quite so noisy — thanks to this mooing, baaing, neighing menagerie of pop-up surprises.

Old Macdonald by Anthony Lewis

An illustrated version of the children’s song that includes the ASL signs. Includes music on back cover.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Open, Shut Them

Open, shut them, open, shut them
Give a little clap, clap, clap
Open, shut them, open, shut them
Lay them in your lap, lap, lap
Creep them, crawl them, creep them, crawl them
Right up to your chin, chin, chin
Open up your little mouth, but do not let them in

Rhymes for Babies

Bounce: Giddy-up, Giddy-up

Giddy-up, giddy-up ride to town (bounce babies on knees)
Giddy-up, giddy-up up and down (lift baby up and down)
Giddy-up fast (bounce quickly)
Giddy up slow (bounce slowly)
Giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up, whoa! (dip baby backwards gently)

Bounce: Dickery Dickery Dare

To the tune “Hickory Dickory Dock”

Dickery dickery dare,
The pig flew up in the air, (woo!)
The man in brown, brought him back down,
Dickery dickery dare!

Pasadena Library

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

Old MacDonald had a farm. E-I-E-I-O.
And on that farm he had a pig. E-I-E-I-O.
With an oink oink here.
And an oink oink there.
Here an oink.
There an oink.
Everywhere an oink oink.
Old MacDonald had a farm. E-I-E-I-O.

Old MacDonald had a farm. E-I-E-I-O.
And on that farm he had a duck. E-I-E-I-O.
With a quack quack here.
And a quack quack there.
And an oink oink here.
And an oink oink there.
Old MacDonald had a farm. E-I-E-I-O.

lyrics continued on YouTube video

Cows in the Barn

To the tune “Wheels on the Bus”

The cows in the barn go moo, moo, moo.
Moo, moo, moo. Moo, moo, moo.
The cows in the barn go moo, moo, moo.
All day long.
Ducks in the pond go quack, quack quack…
Sheep in the field go baa, baa, baa…
Piggies in the pen go oink, oink, oink…

Diaper Changing: There Was a Little Mouse

There was a little mouse, (gently tickle child)
Looking for his house. (gently tickle child)
Not here, (gently tickle child)
Not there, (gently tickle child)
But here, here, here! (gently tickle tummy)

There was a little snake, looking for some cake…
There was a little cat, looking for his hat…
There was a little dog, looking for a log…
There was a little toad, looking for the road…

Diaper Changing: Changing Diapers

Tune to “Are You Sleeping?”

Changing diapers, changing diapers
Lot’s of fun, lot’s of fun.
You’re no longer stinky, you’re no longer stinky.
Nice clean bum, nice clean bum.

Jbrary.com

This is the Way the Ladies Ride

Tune to “Here We Go ‘Round the Mulberry Bush”

This is the way the ladies ride
Ladies ride, ladies ride
This is the way the ladies ride
So early in the morning

Jiggery Jog
Child sits on lap and grown-up bounces fast, slow, or side-to-side as appropriate.

This is the way the ladies ride
Jiggety jog, jiggety jog
This is the way the ladies ride
Jiggety jiggety jog
This is the way the gentlemen ride
Gallop and trot, gallop and trot
This is the way the gentlemen ride
Gallop and gallop and trot
This is the way the farmer rides
Hobbledy hoy, hobbledy hoy
This is the way the farmer rides
Hobbledy hobbledy hoy
This is the way the cowboy rides
Giddy up, giddy up
This is the way the cowboy rides
Giddy giddy up
This is the way the cowgirl rides
Giddy up, giddy up
This is the way the cowgirl rides
Giddy giddy up

Prim, Prim, Prim

This is the way the ladies ride
Prim, prim, prim, prim
This is the way the gentleman ride,
Trim, trim, trim, trim
This is the way the farmer rides
Trot, trot, trot, trot
And this is the way the hunter rides
Gallop, gallop, gallop!

Baby Sign Language

Signing Song: We Ask

“Milk”

Tune to “Farmer in the Dell”

We ask for milk like this, we ask for milk like this.
(squeeze fingers together to make a fist)
When we’re thirsty and want a drink, we ask for milk like this.

Please… (hand circles on chest)

We ask for food like this, we ask for food like this.
(Bring fingers together & up to mouth)
When we’re hungry and need a snack, we ask for food like this.

Please…

We ask to have a change, we ask to have a change.
(alternate fists from top to bottom)
When our diaper is so full, we ask to have a change.

Thank you… (bring hand up to self and back down again)

“Eat”

“Change”

Additional Books

Old MacDonald Had a Farm by James Dean

Pete the cat learns the sounds of the different farm animals in this twist on the classic song

I Spy on the Farm by Edward Gibbs

An interactive introduction to farm animals invites youngsters to make animal noises and practice color and letter recognition while peeping through a spy hole on every page and observing clues to guess which animal will be revealed next in the story.

Who Lives on a Farm? by John Green

Discover who lives on the farm in this engaging introduction to the natural world. Features a wide variety of farm animals from chickens to cows. This informative book helps young children recognize and identify the creatures they see on farms.

Busy Mother Hen

A Mother Hen (almost!) misses out on a fair while she waits to hatch her chicks!

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...

Story Time: The Animal Book Club

Story Time: The Animal Book Club

Story Time: The Animal Book Club

Who loves to read? We love to read! Summer is a great time to establish reading habits with your children, and this year’s summer reading theme is “Tales and Tails.” So, pick up a “tale” about something with a “tail” and have fun with the activities and books we have planned for this summer.

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

Ages 2-5

Sing, Talk, Read, Write, Play

Tip

Make Books a Part of Your Daily Routine — The more that books are woven into children’s everyday lives, the more likely they will be to see reading as a pleasure and a gift.

Activity

At Meal Times- Sing or read a story during a moment of quiet nursing or to gather the kids around the noisy breakfast table.

- www.zerotothree.org

Books Presented

Who Has this Tail? by Laura Hulbert

Short and fuzzy, long and scaled: no matter their size and shape, tails aren’t just hanging around–they’re useful! This book invites readers to guess the owner of nine tails, and then turn the page to see the animal and its tail in action.

Five Little Monkeys Reading in Bed by Eileen Christelow

After their mama reads to them, it’s bedtime for the Five Little Monkeys. But they can’t resist reading just one more book . . . or three! Soon Mama is so tired of trying to get her monkeys to quiet down and go to sleep, she picks up their books and takes them with her. At last, the monkeys are ready to settle down . . . until they hear strange sounds from down the hall. Could it be that Mama likes to read in bed too? 

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?

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Ten Reading Monkeys

One little, two little, three little monkeys.
Four little, five little, six little monkeys.
Seven little, eight little, nine little monkeys
Ten little monkeys reading in bed.

Ten little, nine little, eight little monkeys
Seven little, six little, five little monkeys
Four little, three little, two little monkeys
One little monkey reading in bed.

Crafts and Activities

Coloring Page

Print out this coloring page!

Create this swinging monkey craft!

Additional Books

Warning: Do Not Open This Book! by Adam Lehrhaupt

Monkeys, toucans, and alligators unleash mayhem.

What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins

Readers can explore the many amazing things animals can do with their ears, eyes, mouths, noses, feet, and tails in this beautifully illustrated interactive guessing book.

Dog Loves Books by Louise Yates

Dog loves books so much that he decides to open a book store.

Llama Llama Loves to Read by Anna Dewdney

Throughout the school day, the teacher helps Llama Llama and the other children practice their letters, shows word cards, reads stories, and brings them to the library where they can all choose a favorite book. By the end of the day, Llama Llama is recognizing words and can’t wait to show Mama Llama that he’s becoming a reader!

More Story Times

Storytime: S is for Soup

Soup is always a good idea! Not only is it delicious and comforting on a cold, chilly day, but making it together with your child becomes a recipe for learning and development experiences. These can include nutritional awareness, healthy eating habits, enhanced motor...

January Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeJanuary Story Time is serving up something soup-er! Book Babies (infants/babies not yet walking and their caregivers) meet Wednesdays at 9:30 AM with songs, stories, and sensory fun for our "Soup’s On!" theme. (Library Closed Jan. 1) Toddler Time (walking...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in November

New things can be exciting. New friends, new shoes, or a brand new year. Check out these books that are new to the library. You might find a new favorite. ​ ​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,...

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 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...

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