Storytime: Halloween!

Storytime: Halloween!

Storytime: Halloween!

BOO!
There will be a special STORY TIME TRICK-OR-TREAT on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29TH. Come dressed up for fun Halloween stories and trick-or-treating! Choose one time: 10:30 · 11:30 · 12:30. 

Join us Monday, 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

A favorite game of many children, Zoom, Zoom Zoom, helps children count down from five to a lift-off at zero, while the anticipation of counting makes this rhyme a great skill-builder for understanding sequencing, the order in which something takes place.

- Lambert

Activity

Have fun with, “Halloween Zoom, Zoom, Zoom!” For babies, bounce your child on your lap and lift her up very quickly on “BOO!” For toddlers and older children, squat down with them in a tight ball and jump up for “BOO!”

Books Presented

Monsters Come Out Tonight! by Frederick Glasser

Trick-or-treat! Open the doors to find monsters getting ready for a night of Halloween fun. All of the monsters are getting ready for the big Halloween bash in this rhyming board book. Lift the flaps to reveal Dracula brushing his fangs, witches combing their hair, and more silly surprises! Quirky illustrations hold plenty of details that will be sure to tickle readers’ funny bones and get them in the Halloween spirit.

The Spooky Wheels on the Bus by J. Elizabeth Mills

A haunted Halloween bus ride that will have children singing with excitement. The Spooky Wheels on the Bus is a humorous Halloween-themed version of the classic song “The Wheels on the Bus”…with a few ghoulish tricks and treats up its sleeves! Count from One Spooky Bus up to Ten Goofy Ghosts as this Halloween ride races through town picking up a few unsuspecting passengers along the way.

 

The Ghosts Went Floating by Kim Norman

Witches, werewolves, and other creatures celebrate Halloween in an illustrated rhyme that can be sung to the tune of “The Ants Go Marching.”

Creak! Squeak! Halloween

Lift the flaps and listen to Mr. Friendly Ghost, a big-eyed owl, and other Halloween noises in this light-activated sound book

Pick a Pumpkin by Patricia Toht

One of the most loved Halloween traditions is visiting a pumpkin patch and picking out the perfect pumpkin! Once you bring your pumpkin home, invite your friends and family to form a carving crew and help you turn that perfect pumpkin into–a grinning, glowing jack-o’-lantern! With vibrant, joyful art and a rhythmic, read-aloud text filled with the spirit of community and the thrills of the season, here is a celebration of every fun-filled step in creating the perfect jack-o’-lantern on Halloween night!

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Cut-a-Story: The Little Orange House

Need orange construction paper + scissors

Once upon a time a very small witch was walking in the woods. The cold wind was blowing the dry leaves all around her. The little witch was frantically searching for a house for the winter. She could not find one. Suddenly a piece of orange paper blown by the wind landed at her feet.
(make the paper fly through the air to your feet as you are telling the story)

She picked it up. The little witch looked closely at the paper and then she said, “I shall make myself a house from this piece of orange paper.” She folded the paper in half
(fold the paper)
and took her scissors (she always has a pair in her pocket) and cut off the two corners to make a roof
(cut the two corners at the top of the paper… not at the fold line)

“This will do just fine” she said as she looked at her new house. “But I will need a door.” She always wears pointed hats so she cut a special door that looked just like this
(a few inches in – cut a rectangle with a half triangle at the top for the hat)

The little witch walked through the door and into the little orange house. It was very dark inside. She quickly hurried back out. “I will need to make windows to let in the light,” said the little witch. She cut a front and a back window that looked just like this
(cut a rectangle in the middle of the paper)

Oh, it was a fine looking house. Her very own little house with a roof, a door, and windows was all finished. But just as the little witch started to go inside for the winter, she saw a tiny ghost floating down the windswept path. As the tiny ghost came to a stop near the little house, the little witch saw that she was crying.

“Why are you crying?” asked the little witch.

The tiny ghost stopped crying and answered. “It is cold and windy. It is getting dark. And I have no place to spend the winter.”

“You may spend the winter with me in my new house,” said the kind little witch.

“Oh thank you,” said the happy tiny ghost as she peeked through the window. “This is a very nice house.”

“First”, said the little witch, “I will need to make you a little door of your very own. She took her scissors again and began to cut. She cut a very tiny door. It looked like this.
(cut the tiny door as a triangle shape in the fold between the other door and window).

The two happy new friends went inside. The tiny ghost went in the very little door. The little witch went through her own special door. All winter long they lived happily together inside the little orange house.

If you want to see the inside of their house, unfold the paper. 
Found on Typically Simple blog

 

 

Crafts and Activities

Happy Halloween coloring!

Practice hand-eye coordination with a bat lacing craft!

Bonus craft: Make a monster out of a paper plate

Additional Books

Zombies Don't Eat Veggies! by Megan and Jorge Lacera

Although Mo’s parents insist he eat zombie cuisine, Mo craves vegetables and strives to get them to taste recipes made from his hidden garden. Includes recipes.

Teeny Tiny Halloween Tale

A tiny porcupine just wants a cuddle. All of the other animals turn him away because of his prickly spikes. But finally the porcupine meets an animal who’s happy to hug — a snake! 

More Story Times

Storytime: L is for Ladybugs

Does your child say “wake” instead of “lake” or “wook” instead of “look?” The “L” sound can be tricky for kids to master. While sounds develop at different ages, imitation is key to learning speech. To produce the “L” sound, place the tip of your tongue just behind...

Storytime: L is for Lambs

Who knew that lambs love to laugh or that there are sheep in space with colorful coats? Plus, did you know that lambs can walk within minutes of being born, have teeth only on their lower jaw, and possess four stomachs? If you and your child want to learn more about...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGet ready for March magic with our early literacy programs! Book Babies – Wednesdays at 9:30 AM for babies not yet walking and their grown-ups. Enjoy songs, stories, baby sign language, movement, and sensory activities. Toddler Time – Mondays & Tuesdays...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in February

Here’s something new to the library, and it’s just 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 Some children love to sit and listen to books, and some find other...

Storytime: C is for Confidence

Building confidence in your child at a young age is crucial because it shapes how they see themselves and how they interact with the world. When a child learns confidence, they can see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than a reason to give up. As you read...

Storytime: C is for Counting

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some effective ways to introduce numbers to your child: Everyday Activities Count objects around the house (toys, fruits, steps). Count fingers and toes...

Storytime: C is for Cupcake

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man, bake me a cupcake as fast as you can! And don’t forget the sprinkles! For this Storytime, we had fun with the letter “C,” cupcakes, and cats. So, spend some time in the kitchen with your child baking some cupcakes and perhaps, read...

Storytime: S is for Snake

Happy Lunar New Year! Did you know that dates of Lunar New Year will change each year with the moons, phases, and it is the most celebrated holiday in many Asian cultures. It’s a time for family gatherings, traditional foods, festivals, red envelopes filled with...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

Storytime: S is for Simon Says

Let’s play a game! Not only are they fun, but games help children develop vital skills like problem solving, creativity, and memory. They can also boost physical health, develop social skills, and increase a child’s overall sense of well-being. Here are some indoor...

Storytime: Horses

Storytime: Horses

Storytime: Horses

Clippity-clop, clippity-clop! Whoa… STOP! Children love everything about horses: they way they run, eat, and when they talk to each other. Find out a little more about these appealing creatures with these books and activities.

Join us Monday, 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 you give your child positive reinforcement by clapping or telling them that they did a great job, you are encouraging them to act both independently and cooperatively. To encourage this at home, use activities that your child can do easily, and don’t forget to give a lot of positive encouragement.

- Lambert

Activity

Pick some simple activities your child can do that will fill an entire day. After they do the activity, even if they fail, encourage them with clapping, hugs, and positive reinforcement. Then, at bed time, talk about the things they accomplished that day.

Books Presented

Clip-Clop! by Nicola Smee

After Mr. Horse asks his friends if they want to go for a ride, Cat, Dog, Pig, and Duck try to hang on as they urge Mr. Horse to go faster and faster.

Horseplay! by Karma Wilson

A farmer tries to change the behavior of his rowdy horses who play all night and sleep all day.

 

Horses by Aaron Carr

Describes the life cycle and behavior of horses, and how they are raised on a farm.

Horse and Buggy Paint it Out by Ethan Long

When an effort to paint a mural results in knocked-over paint cans and spattering brushes, Horse reluctantly accepts help from Buggy.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

If Your Horse is the Color Blue

Tune to “This Old Man”

If your horse is the color blue,
Gallop it upon your shoe!
If you have a blue horse,
From McDonald’s farm
Come and put it in the barn.

yellow – gallop it upon your elbow
green – gallop it upon your knee
purple – gallop it in a great big circle
red – gallop it upon your head

I Gave My Horse an Apple

I gave my horse an apple,
And she gave me a neigh.
I gave my horse a carrot,
And she moved her head this way.
I gave my horse a sugar cube,
And she gave me a smile.
And then she took me for a ride,
For more than half a mile.

Clippity-clop, clippity-clop, clippity clop, clop, clop!
Clippity-clop, clippity-clop, clippity clop, clop, clop!
Clippity-clop, clippity-clop, clippity clop, clop, clop!
Whoa, STOP!

Crafts and Activities

A horse mare with her colt coloring page

Make a horse from a paper bag!

Additional Books

Splish-Splash by Nicola Smee

Mr. Horse invites all the barnyard animals onto his little boat, and soon he, Cat, Dog, Pig, and Duck are riding though big waves, and come crashing down with a big splash.

A Cowgirl and Her Horse by Jean Ekman Adams

A young cowgirl demonstrates her unique way of caring for her horse, from feeding him hay sandwiches to helping him pick out new shoes.

Blaze and Thunderbolt by CW Anderson

Billy and his loyal pony Blaze attempt to tame the wild horse Thunderbolt.

The Fly-Away Horse

A tiny porcupine just wants a cuddle. All of the other animals turn him away because of his prickly spikes. But finally the porcupine meets an animal who’s happy to hug — a snake! 

More Story Times

Storytime: L is for Ladybugs

Does your child say “wake” instead of “lake” or “wook” instead of “look?” The “L” sound can be tricky for kids to master. While sounds develop at different ages, imitation is key to learning speech. To produce the “L” sound, place the tip of your tongue just behind...

Storytime: L is for Lambs

Who knew that lambs love to laugh or that there are sheep in space with colorful coats? Plus, did you know that lambs can walk within minutes of being born, have teeth only on their lower jaw, and possess four stomachs? If you and your child want to learn more about...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGet ready for March magic with our early literacy programs! Book Babies – Wednesdays at 9:30 AM for babies not yet walking and their grown-ups. Enjoy songs, stories, baby sign language, movement, and sensory activities. Toddler Time – Mondays & Tuesdays...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in February

Here’s something new to the library, and it’s just 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 Some children love to sit and listen to books, and some find other...

Storytime: C is for Confidence

Building confidence in your child at a young age is crucial because it shapes how they see themselves and how they interact with the world. When a child learns confidence, they can see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than a reason to give up. As you read...

Storytime: C is for Counting

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some effective ways to introduce numbers to your child: Everyday Activities Count objects around the house (toys, fruits, steps). Count fingers and toes...

Storytime: C is for Cupcake

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man, bake me a cupcake as fast as you can! And don’t forget the sprinkles! For this Storytime, we had fun with the letter “C,” cupcakes, and cats. So, spend some time in the kitchen with your child baking some cupcakes and perhaps, read...

Storytime: S is for Snake

Happy Lunar New Year! Did you know that dates of Lunar New Year will change each year with the moons, phases, and it is the most celebrated holiday in many Asian cultures. It’s a time for family gatherings, traditional foods, festivals, red envelopes filled with...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

Storytime: S is for Simon Says

Let’s play a game! Not only are they fun, but games help children develop vital skills like problem solving, creativity, and memory. They can also boost physical health, develop social skills, and increase a child’s overall sense of well-being. Here are some indoor...

Storytime: Hugs!

Storytime: Hugs!

Storytime: Hugs!

“You never forget the first time you hug your child. Holding them in your arms and feeling the warmth of their body is a wonderful experience. There’s nothing like it! But did you know there are scientific benefits besides feeling all warm and fuzzy? It’s true.” To discover the science behind hugging and some great activities, click here.

Join us Monday, 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 and stories to help children think of their own solutions to problems helps them develop develop problem solving skills. Researchers have found that having ideas for tackling problems helps children in learning new tasks and handling social situations.

Activity

Find a book that revolves around a problem-solving situation to read with your child such as Karma Wilson’s, “Bear’s New Friend.” Introduce the book by setting up the problem. Then, when you approach the problem, ask your child what she might do to solve the situation. You can also read through the whole book and go back to the problem.

Books Presented

Hug Machine by Scott Campbell

The hug machine is available to hug anyone, any time, whether they are square or long, spiky or soft.

Hug by Jez Alborough

Bobo the chimp seeks hugs among various jungle animals and their young, but he does not get what he wants until he is reunited with his own parent.

 

Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It) by Carrie Finison

Doug doesn’t like hugs. He thinks hugs are too squeezy, too squashy, too squooshy, too smooshy. He doesn’t like hello hugs or goodbye hugs, game-winning home run hugs or dropped ice cream cone hugs, and he definitely doesn’t like birthday hugs. He’d much rather give a high five—or a low five, a side five, a double five, or a spinny five. Yup, some people love hugs; other people don’t. So how can you tell if someone likes hugs or not? There’s only one way to find out: Ask! Because everybody gets to decide for themselves whether they want a hug or not.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Looking for a Hug!

I’m looking for something warm and snug,
You open your arms and give a great big _______________!
Bug?
Rug?
Slug?
Mug?
Doug?
(Pull out each goofy answer from the magic hat until you give the right one! (a great big HUG).

I Can Hug

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

I Have a Little Heart

I have a little heart (place hand over heart])
It goes thump, thump, thump (pat chest 3X)
It beats even faster when I jump, jump, jump (jump 3X)
I get a special feeling when I look at you (point to eyes, then audience)
It makes me want to give you a hug or two! (Hug yourself)

Crafts and Activities

Tigger and Winnie the Pooh love hugs!

A hugging craft ♥

Additional Books

One Hug by Katrina Moore

 A young boy discovers many different kinds of hugs and ways to show love as family members and friends gather to welcome his immigrant relatives from China.

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.

Hug? by Charlene Chua

How many hugs is too many? This girl’s had enough! This humorous picture book explores compassion and the importance of setting boundaries. After coughing up a hairball, a girl’s cat doesn’t feel well. So the girl offers to give her cat a hug, which makes the cat — and the girl — feel better. More and more animals ask for hugs… How much more of this can she take? The story shows how important hugs can be to our happiness — even the most unlikely of creatures sometimes need one! — but that doesn’t mean they’re always welcome.

I Need a Hug by Aaron Blabey

A tiny porcupine just wants a cuddle. All of the other animals turn him away because of his prickly spikes. But finally the porcupine meets an animal who’s happy to hug — a snake! 

More Story Times

Storytime: L is for Ladybugs

Does your child say “wake” instead of “lake” or “wook” instead of “look?” The “L” sound can be tricky for kids to master. While sounds develop at different ages, imitation is key to learning speech. To produce the “L” sound, place the tip of your tongue just behind...

Storytime: L is for Lambs

Who knew that lambs love to laugh or that there are sheep in space with colorful coats? Plus, did you know that lambs can walk within minutes of being born, have teeth only on their lower jaw, and possess four stomachs? If you and your child want to learn more about...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGet ready for March magic with our early literacy programs! Book Babies – Wednesdays at 9:30 AM for babies not yet walking and their grown-ups. Enjoy songs, stories, baby sign language, movement, and sensory activities. Toddler Time – Mondays & Tuesdays...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in February

Here’s something new to the library, and it’s just 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 Some children love to sit and listen to books, and some find other...

Storytime: C is for Confidence

Building confidence in your child at a young age is crucial because it shapes how they see themselves and how they interact with the world. When a child learns confidence, they can see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than a reason to give up. As you read...

Storytime: C is for Counting

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some effective ways to introduce numbers to your child: Everyday Activities Count objects around the house (toys, fruits, steps). Count fingers and toes...

Storytime: C is for Cupcake

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man, bake me a cupcake as fast as you can! And don’t forget the sprinkles! For this Storytime, we had fun with the letter “C,” cupcakes, and cats. So, spend some time in the kitchen with your child baking some cupcakes and perhaps, read...

Storytime: S is for Snake

Happy Lunar New Year! Did you know that dates of Lunar New Year will change each year with the moons, phases, and it is the most celebrated holiday in many Asian cultures. It’s a time for family gatherings, traditional foods, festivals, red envelopes filled with...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

Storytime: S is for Simon Says

Let’s play a game! Not only are they fun, but games help children develop vital skills like problem solving, creativity, and memory. They can also boost physical health, develop social skills, and increase a child’s overall sense of well-being. Here are some indoor...

Storytime: Hats

Storytime: Hats

Storytime: Hats

Let’s learn about the letter “H”! There’s hopping, horses, happy, hands, and… HATS! Hats are not only great for pretend play, they also have a purpose such as protection, like a bicycle helmet, or shade, like a sun visor. Some people wear hats for their job like a police officer or a construction worker. Others wear hats for fashion! So, grab some hats with your child and have fun pretending and learning about the part of clothing that’s totally on top!

Join us Monday, 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 you read a book with your child, running your finger under the printed words helps her to know that it is the text you are reading, not the pictures. Did you know that without our guidance, 4- year- old children will give 95 percent of their visual attention to the pictures?

- Lambert

Activity

Read “Hats are Not for Cats” by Jacqueline Rayner or another book with your child, and run your finger under the title as you read the words. If the book has a repeated phrase, run your finger under those words as well. Encourage your child to say the repeated phrase while pointing at each word as he says it. Then encourage him to point at the words.

Books Presented

Finders Keepers by Keiko Kasza

When a squirrel uses his red hat to mark the spot where he buried an acorn, he sets off a chain of events involving other creatures, each of which finds an unusual use for the chapeau.

Hats Are Not For Cats by Jacqueline K Rayner

A patronizing, plaid-hat-wearing dog informs a cat that hats are only for dogs but the cat, joined by others, dons a wide assortment of hats proving, at last, that hats are for everyone.

 

This is Not My Hate by Jon Klassen

A little fish thinks he can get away with stealing a hat.

Do You Believe in Unicorns? by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

Is that a horse wearing a hat, or is it a unicorn in disguise? It all depends on how you look at it in this charming story about finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.

 

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Silly Hat Song
Tune to “This Old Man”

On my head, I wear my hat.
It is such a silly hat
That my head will wiggle waggle to and fro
Where else can my silly hat go?

These Are Grandma’s Glasses

These are Grandma’s glasses
This is Grandma’s hat
This is the way she folds her hands
And lays them in her lap
Here are Grandpa’s glasses
And here is Grandpa’s hat
And here’s the way he folds his arms
And takes a little nap

Crafts and Activities

Make a fun hat!

Additional Books

We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen

Two turtles find a hat that looks good on both of them, but, with fairness in mind, they decide to leave it be, until night falls and one of the turtles changes its mind.

I Had a Favorite Hat by Boni Ashburn

At the end of summer, a girl’s mother wants to put away her favorite beach hat but the girl asks to keep it out, then decorates it for each holiday and season from autumn through spring.

Hats Off to You! by Karen Beaumont

Emily, Ashley, Kaitlyn, and Claire are busy trying on different hats, uncertain which ones to wear to the street fair.

Whose Hat is This? by Sharon Katz Cooper

Put on your thinking cap and guess whose hat is whose. There are hard hats and soft hats, square hats and round hats. There are even very tall hats. Some workers wear special hats to help them do their jobs. Can you guess whose hat is whose? Learn all about the different hats worn by construction workers, police officers, firefighters, and more.

More Story Times

Storytime: L is for Ladybugs

Does your child say “wake” instead of “lake” or “wook” instead of “look?” The “L” sound can be tricky for kids to master. While sounds develop at different ages, imitation is key to learning speech. To produce the “L” sound, place the tip of your tongue just behind...

Storytime: L is for Lambs

Who knew that lambs love to laugh or that there are sheep in space with colorful coats? Plus, did you know that lambs can walk within minutes of being born, have teeth only on their lower jaw, and possess four stomachs? If you and your child want to learn more about...

March Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Story TimeGet ready for March magic with our early literacy programs! Book Babies – Wednesdays at 9:30 AM for babies not yet walking and their grown-ups. Enjoy songs, stories, baby sign language, movement, and sensory activities. Toddler Time – Mondays & Tuesdays...

Storytime: Something NEW, Just for YOU! in February

Here’s something new to the library, and it’s just 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 Some children love to sit and listen to books, and some find other...

Storytime: C is for Confidence

Building confidence in your child at a young age is crucial because it shapes how they see themselves and how they interact with the world. When a child learns confidence, they can see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than a reason to give up. As you read...

Storytime: C is for Counting

One, two, three, count with me. It’s as easy as can be! Teaching numbers at an early age can be great fun! Here are some effective ways to introduce numbers to your child: Everyday Activities Count objects around the house (toys, fruits, steps). Count fingers and toes...

Storytime: C is for Cupcake

Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man, bake me a cupcake as fast as you can! And don’t forget the sprinkles! For this Storytime, we had fun with the letter “C,” cupcakes, and cats. So, spend some time in the kitchen with your child baking some cupcakes and perhaps, read...

Storytime: S is for Snake

Happy Lunar New Year! Did you know that dates of Lunar New Year will change each year with the moons, phases, and it is the most celebrated holiday in many Asian cultures. It’s a time for family gatherings, traditional foods, festivals, red envelopes filled with...

Programs for Kids ‘n’ Tweens

Old School PoetryThis February, let love take center stage! Stop by our special collections area to type out a heartfelt poem on our vintage typewriter—whether it’s for a dear friend or your favorite pizza. Drop your masterpiece into the submission box nearby if you'd...

Storytime: S is for Simon Says

Let’s play a game! Not only are they fun, but games help children develop vital skills like problem solving, creativity, and memory. They can also boost physical health, develop social skills, and increase a child’s overall sense of well-being. Here are some indoor...

Storytime: Tiger Tales

Storytime: Tiger Tales

Storytime: Tiger Tales

“The wonderful thing about Tiggers… Is Tiggers are wonderful things!” Of course they are! Especially TIGERS. This week in Story Time we learned that tigers have patterns in their fur, live on the other side of the world in Asia, and and have very large paws. Try reading some of these books and singing the rhymes together. Then, in the words of the adorable Tigger, you and your child can, “Consider yourself pounced!”

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

Have your preschooler tell you the story. By age 5, children can sit still for longer books and can create their own stories based on the pictures.

Activity

After reading a book with your preschooler, ask him to tell you the basic plot of the book or make up stories based on what he sees on each page. You can also pretend play the story and act it out with one another.

Books Presented

Tigers by Kate Riggs

A kindergarten-level introduction to tigers, covering their growth process, behaviors, the habitats they call home, and such defining physical features as their striped fur.

Who is the Beast? by Keith Baker

 A tiger is confused by jungle animals fleeing from a beast until he discovers he is the beast they are fleeing from.

 

Oh No! by Candace Fleming

 A series of animals falls into a deep hole, only to be saved at last by a very large rescuer.

Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by Peter Brown

Are you bored with being so proper? Do you want to have more fun? Mr. Tiger knows exactly how you feel. So he decides to go wild. But does he go too far? Bored with city life and the proper behavior it requires, Mr. Tiger has a wild idea that leads him to discover his true nature. From Caldecott Honor artist Peter Brown comes a story that shows there’s a time and place for everything…even going wild.

 

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Five Little Tigers

Five little tigers out for a stroll
One tripped on a rock and started to… ROLL.
She bounced down a hill and landed with a flop.
How many tigers are left walking through the swamp?
(count down until there are no more tigers)

The Jungle Song
Tune to “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”

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.

The Tiger
Tune to “Frere Jacques”

Orange and black, great big cat
(hold hands wide to side)
Four big paws (hold up hands)
Long sharp and claws (curve fingers like claws)
Through the jungle running (pretend to run)
Do you see her coming? (shade eyes)
What a sight! Will she bite? (clap hands)

I’m a Little Tiger
Tune to “I’m a Little Teapot”

I’m a little tiger in the jungle.
Here are my stripes.
Here is my tail.
When I get excited you will see
Just how loud that I can growl.

Crafts and Activities

Tiger Coloring Page

Paper plate tiger craft!

Additional Books

A Tiger Like Me by Michael Engler

A little boy—um, no, a tiger!—tells us all about what he gets up to on an ordinary day: how he wakes up in his tiger den, what he eats for breakfast at his feeding spot, and how little tigers feel when they are wide awake, hungry, thirsty, or in the mood for adventures. But at night, even the wildest of tigers is happy to curl up in bed with Tiger-Mom and Tiger-Dad and become a cuddly little tiger cub.

I Am a Tiger by Karl Newson

Despite the evidence, Mouse insists that he is a tiger–or maybe a crocodile.

Tiger Cubs by Ruth Owen

Young readers will learn about what some people consider to be the most beautiful wild cats in the worldSiberian tigers. Born in the bitter cold of Siberia in a safe hideaway of tall bushes or rocks, the cute little cubs of this species are well cared for by their mothers. They cuddle, lick, and nurse their babies and keep them safe. Through gorgeous pictures and simple text, readers will see how the babies learn all about hunting and living on their own in this coming-of-age introduction to tiger cubs.

Under My Bed

There’s a tiger under the bed! Luckily Mum knows just what to do…

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Storytime: Trains

Storytime: Trains

Storytime: Trains

Chugg chugg! Choo, choo! Off we go! Hop aboard a terrific train with these books, songs, and activities.

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 seem as an extension of informal library classes. Children who have had joyful experiences in the public library often approach school with a positive attitude, ready and excited to learn.

- Lambert

Activity

After attending Storytime at the library, talk with your child about the things she thought was fun. Perhaps it was the yarn railroad track we walked around in the back of the room, or maybe it was Cody’s train noises. Then do some of the rhymes and songs that were presented.

Books Presented

Terrific Trains by Tony Mitton

Rhyming text introduces a variety of trains as they leave a station, rush along the tracks, and arrive at the platform where travelers are waiting.

The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper

Although she is not very big, the Little Blue Engine agrees to try to pull a stranded train full of toys over the mountain.

Freight Train by Donald Crews

Brief text and illustrations trace the journey of a colorful train as it goes through tunnels, by cities, and over trestles.

Steam Train Dream Train by Sherri Duskey Rinker

In this book with rhyming text, the dream train pulls into the station and all the different cars are loaded by the animal workers, each with the appropriate cargo.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Flannel Board: Down by the Station

Down by the station early in the morning
See the little puffer trains all in a row
See the engine driver turn the little handle
Puff puff, chuff chuff, off we go!
(remove one train, and count)

The Wheels on the Train
Tune to “Wheels on the Bus”

The wheels on the train go clackety clack
Clackety clack, clackety clack
The wheels on the train, go clackety clack
All along the track.

More verses:
The whistle… goes whoo, whoo, whoo
The conductor… says, “All Aboard”
The people … go bumpety, bump

Engine on the Track

Here is the engine on the track. (thumb)
Here is the coal car just in back. (pointer finger)
Here in the boxcar to carry freight. (middle finger)
Here is the mailcar. Don’t be late! (ring finger)
Way back here at the end of the train (pinky finger)
Rides the caboose through the sun and rain.

This is a Choo Choo Train

This is a choo-choo train, (bend arms at elbows)
Puffing down the track. (rotate forearms in rhythm)
Now it’s going forward, (push arms forward, continue rotating motion)
Now it’s going back. (pull arms back, continue rotating motion)
Now the bell is ringing, (pull bell cord with closed fist)
Now the whistle blows. (hold fist near mouth and blow)
What a lot of noise it makes, (cover ears with hands)
Everywhere it goes! (stretch out arms)

 

Crafts and Activities

Learn shape and build a fun train!

Additional Books

I'm Fast by Kate and Jim McMullan

Meet one hard workin’ freight train. He’s got to get to Chicago on time and nothing is going to stop him. Mountains? Not a chance! Cows? Out of his way, ladies! He’s going to get there—and fast!

The Caboose Who Got Loose by Bill Peet

Tired of being last on the smoky, noisy freight train, Katy Caboose wishes for some way to escape the endless track.

Choo-Choo School by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

No racing in the haul-ways! A look at seven adorable train cars on their first day of school. All aboard the train-car pool! A new lineup of students is off and rolling to Choo-Choo School. After reciting their classroom rules — Work hard, play fair, be kind — it’s time for some math to get the wheels turning. Then everyone’s ready to climb a hill in gym (it’s good to blow off steam), sing songs in music (Flat Car is a bit off-key), and learn the whole alphabet, especially the letter R. In one of Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s last books, lighthearted verse portrays a world where train stations are classrooms, the conductor doubles as the teacher, and Boxcar is happy to hand out tissues to anyone who ah-choo-choos. Bright, energetic illustrations by animation artist Mike Yamada bring the whole clickety crew to rollicking life.

Terrific Trains by Dennis R Shealy

Few travel by trains today, but kids regardless are fascinated by the freight train, passenger trains, the conductor, and even the caboose. Terrific Trains will mix both illustrations and photographs to bring the railroad to life!

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