June 2024 Teen Activities

June 2024 Teen Activities

June 2024 Teen Activities

Summer Reading

Adventure 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 at the Library. Complete your reading goals and earn prizes provided by our amazing local sponsors. For more information, visit our Summer Reading Page: Do It: Summer Reading.

Teen Action Council

Have a say in what goes on at the Library for teens! Ages 13-18 are welcome to join us Wednesday, June 5th at 4 PM in the Community Room to voice their input. 

Summer Reading Kick-off Party:

Choose Your Own Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey at our Summer Reading Teen Kick-off Party: Choose Your Own Adventure! Ages 12-18, join us on Friday, June 7, from 7-9 PM in the Community Room. Which path will you take? Dive into a night of mystery and excitement as you navigate through our library’s twists and turns. But beware, every choice could lead you closer to the treasure… or deeper into the unknown! Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and friendship as we kickstart Summer Reading 2024 together.

Chess & Game Club

Learn the art of chess and other games with the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Tweens and teens ages 9-18 are welcome to join every Monday* from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. Mark your calendars for a Special Mancala Tournament on July 1st! Game supplies will be provided. (*There will be no Chess & Game Club June 3rd or July 29th.)

Family Friendly Films

Join us for Free Family Friendly Films every Wednesday at 1 PM in the Community Room! Get ready for a cinematic journey filled with new releases and beloved classics. Check out our lineup:

6/12 Migration (PG)

6/26 Alice in Wonderland (G)

Children under 12 must be accompanied by someone 14 or older, and parents, please prescreen films to ensure it is appropriate for your child. Mark your calendars for a summer of movie magic!

Teen Anime Club logo

Adventures in Scriptwriting:

Teen Writing Contest

Dive into the world of scriptwriting with our “Adventures in Scriptwriting: Teen Writer’s Contest”! Calling all teen writers aged 12-18! Do you have a flair for crafting captivating dialogue and compelling characters? Submit your best playwriting piece to Madison Library District’s contest and showcase your talent! Need guidance? Join us at Young League of Writers on June 12th & July 10th for expert tips and tricks. All participants win a prize! Plus, the 1st prize winner gets their script performed at our End of Summer Reading party. Don’t miss out! Submit your entry by July 20th. Details are available at the Teen Zone

Teen Anime Club logo

Young League of Writers

Calling all young wordsmiths! Join us Wednesdays at 4:00 PM in the Community Room for Young League of Writers, exclusively for teens ages 12-18. Whether you’re eager to share your latest creations or simply looking to connect with fellow writers, this is the place to be! We have a special guest joining us in June and July: Janine Gilbert, screenwriter extraordinaire! She is known for adapting Jack Weyland’s book Charly for the screen and will be helping us learn how to write for the screen and stage.

Mark your calendars: JUNE 12 – Dive into the world of plays and discover the secrets of sensational scripts!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to hone your craft and forge friendships with like-minded creative writers. See you there!

Teen Crafts

Hey, creative teens ages 12-18! Join us every Thursday at 4:30 PM for Teen Crafts in the Community Room! Bring your friends and groove to music as you craft unique masterpieces to take home:

JUN 13 – Map Adventure Picture Art in a Frame

JUN 20 – Sharpie & Spray Paint T-shirts

JUN 27 – Dream Catchers

Let your imagination run wild and let’s create together!

Adventures in Magic with Matt Seraydarian

Kick off Summer Reading 2024 with a spellbinding adventure that’s perfect for all ages! Magician and illusionist with Matt Seraydarian will amaze and transfix in the Community Room on Thursday, June 13 at 6:30 PM! Matt’s magical mastery combines music, stories, and inspiring messages, promising an unforgettable after-dinner delight! Don’t miss out! For more mesmerizing moments, check out The Magic of Matt Seraydarian on YouTube. See you there!

Dungeons & Dragons

Calling all brave adventurers ages 12-18! Join us Fridays at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for Teen Dungeons & Dragons! Dive into our Summer Reading “One Shot” Campaigns where mysteries await:

June 14th: Adventures in Secrets of the Mangrove Keep

June 28th: Adventures in the Carnivorous Jungle

Experienced or new, all are welcome! Bring your own character or use one of our pre-made ones, crafted with the core 5th Edition player’s handbook. For more info visit:  Let the questing begin!

LEGO Club logo

LEGO Club

Ages 6-18 are welcome to join LEGO Club on Tuesdays at 2 PM in the Community Room! This month on June 18th, join us for an Adventure on Disaster Island!

Anime Club

Calling all anime enthusiasts! Join us Friday, June 21st at 3:30 PM in the Community Room for the ultimate Teen Anime Club experience! Ages 12-18 are invited to immerse themselves in the world of anime, manga, and games. This month’s activity will be an adventure with My Hero Academia Monopoly and other anime games. Don’t miss out!

Movies on the Lawn

Get ready for an unforgettable cinematic experience under the stars as “Movies on the Lawn” makes its triumphant return this summer! Join us for an exciting lineup of beloved films showcased on our giant outdoor screen, perfect for a cozy evening with friends and family. Showtimes are limited to June 21st at 9:30 PMWonka & July 19th at 9:30 PMPuss in Boots: The Last Wish. Don’t miss out on this enchanting summer tradition—grab your popcorn, bring your blankets and chairs and set up a comfy spot right on the lawn. Concessions will be available and free! Join us for an unforgettable evening of movie magic!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge

Have you ever wanted to travel to all 50 states? Take an epic journey with us this year as we visit each great state of our nation. Armchair travelers ages 12 and up will read one book set in each state, earning state stickers and opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will have the opportunity to earn small prizes along the way. Each reader who completes the journey will earn a special travel bag commemorating their travels. See more details here.

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Cooking the Books – Baking Yesteryear

Cooking the Books – Baking Yesteryear

Cooking the Books – Baking Yesteryear

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Adult Makers Try Cooking the Books: Baking Yesteryear

Our Adult Makers had an extra sweet April activity that was a blast from the past! Cooking the Books follows a recent online trend of “Cookbook Clubs” that brings together chefs and readers alike. Our library friends each picked a recipe from B. Dylan Hollis’s Baking Yesteryear, which they’ve pointed to in the first group photo. All of their creations, apart perhaps from the avocado pie, were delicious! It was a bit harder for them to choose when we asked them to point to their favorite. We’re excited to bring our patrons future Cooking the Books activities in the future!

 

About the Book

Baking Yesteryear is a decade-by-decade cookbook that highlights the best (and a few of the worst) baking recipes from the 20th century. Travel back in time on a delicious decade-by-decade jaunt as Dylan shows you how to bake vintage forgotten greats. With a big pinch of fun and a full cup of humor, you’ll be baking everything from Chocolate Potato Cake from the 1910s to Avocado Pie from the 1960s. Dylan has baked hundreds of recipes from countless antique cookbooks and selected only the best for this bakebook, sharing the shining stars from each decade. And because some of the recipes Dylan shares on his wildly popular social media channels are spectacular failures, he’s thrown in a few of the most disastrously strange recipes for you to try if you dare.

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

May Programs for All Ages

May Programs for All Ages

May Programs for All Ages

Miss Wendy’s Reading Tips & Tricks

For Parents

Are 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 your child’s reading skills just in time for Summer Reading! Mark your calendars for this can’t-miss event happening in the Community Room on Wednesday, May 1 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM! Remember, this class is for adults only, so please make arrangements to leave your children at home. Thank you for understanding!

Sign up now to secure your spot: RSVP link.

Can’t sign up online? No worries! You can also register in person at the Children’s Reference desk.

For more information about Wendy Pedersen, visit her website at www.misswendysbooks.com.

Combined Tween Book Club

Join us Thursday, May 2nd from 6:30-7:30 PM in the Community Room for a special combined Mother Daughter Book Club and Books For Boys! Boys & girls ages 8-11, along with their accompanying adults, are invited for an adventurous evening diving into Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. You won’t want to miss this book club!

Family Frienly Films

Join us for another scrumptious adventure in Wonka’s world! Bring the family for a magical movie experience at Family Friendly Films. This repeat showing will be in the Community Room on Friday, May 3rd, at 3:30 PM. Children ages 12 and under must be accompanied by a responsible person aged 14 or older. Parents, please prescreen films to determine whether it is appropriate for your child. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Take a Break Book Club

Join us for Take A Break Book Club for adults 18 and older! Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 PM in the Community Room. Let the laughter ensue with this month’s P.G. Wodehouse pick! We’re talking sparkling dialogue, utter silliness, and all things joyously absurd in Something Fresh. No copies at the circulation desk this time! Instead, access the free ebook here: Let’s explore new ways to dive into delightful reads together! See you there!

Armchair Traveler Challenge Logo

Armchair Traveler Challenge

Have you ever wanted to travel to all 50 states? Take an epic journey with us this year as we visit each great state of our nation. Armchair travelers will read one book set in each state, earning state stickers and opportunities to enter the final drawing for our grand prizes. Any reader who joins us for even a portion of the trip will have the opportunity to earn small prizes along the way. Each reader who completes the journey will earn a special travel bag commemorating their travels. See more details here:

September Adult Events

Take a Break Book ClubTake a Break and join our adult book club on Sept. 21 at 6:30 PM! Ages 18+ will meet in the Community Room to discuss Jane Austen’s classic, Sense and Sensibility. Adult MakersFriday, September 15 is Adult Makers! We will be making noodles from...

September Kids & Tween Events

Story TimeJoin Miss Gina, Grace, and Marybeth for Preschool Story Time, Toddler Time, and Book Babies! For September, we will have fun with the letter F and farm animals! Preschool Story Time is for ages 2-5 and meets Tuesdays at 10:30 AM and 6:30 PM or Wednesdays at...

September Teen Events

Hauntings - Library Teen Virtual ConventionTeens are invited to join the annual Library Teen Virtual Convention! Inspired by all our favorite ghost stories, spooky folklore, and mysterious cryptids, this year's theme is HAUNTINGS! The Convention is hosted on Discord...

July Teen Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Mondays from 4:30-5:30 PM in the Community Room. For Ages 9-18TEEN ACTION COUNCIL Teen Action Council gathers to discuss plans...

July Adult Activities

INDEPENDENCE DAY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. No items will be due but the book drop will remain open. Thank you! "ALL TOGETHER NOW" BLOCK PARTY This is the Block Party everyone will be talking about this...

July Kid & Tween Activities

CHESS AND GAME CLUB Learn the art of chess and other games from the master of fun and strategy, Nick Allison. Game supplies will be provided. Every Monday from 4:30-5:30 P.M. in the Community Room For ages 9-184TH OF JULY CLOSURE The Library will be closed Tuesday,...

June Kids and Tween Activities

SPECIAL STORY TIME Join us for a special story time with local author Ruth Nielson! She is the author and illustrator of I Am Remarkable: A Journey of Self-Discovery. Ruth will lead our little ones in a yoga session, so please bring a towel or mat for your child to...

June Adult Activities

CREATIVE WRITING CLUB Share your writing with other storytelling enthusiasts or join to make friends! Join the Creative Writing Club for ages 18+. We will share your favorite piece of writing and talk about why writing is our passion. Wednesdays, June 14 & 28 at...

Library Closed for Labor Day

The library will be closed Saturday September 3rd and Monday September 5th for Labor Day. No items will be due and the book drop will remain open. Thank you!

August Library Activities

TEEN ACTION COUNCILWednesday, August 3rd. 4-5:30pm.  For ages 12-18. Come and have a say in what activities Teens do at the Library and meet new friends. NO PROGRAMS IN AUGUST To reset from Summer Reading and to accomodate our new infrastruture updates, there will be...

Storytime: W is for Waiting

Storytime: W is for Waiting

Storytime: W is for Waiting

In this era of instant gratification, waiting or patience can be a difficult concept for anyone to learn, especially children. But we can assist them in developing this essential skill by giving them experiences, talking about why and how to wait, and the benefits of doing so. The skills of waiting and self regulation helps children develop successful classroom behavior, and it will come in handy when they start school.

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

Waiting is not easy, but it can be one of the most important concepts a child can learn. For some children, it comes naturally, and others, it’s difficult. Determine the waiting expectations for your child and find opportunities to hone their waiting skills.

Activity

Because repeating an activity helps children become more comfortable and responsive to it, try playing “Stop! And wait…” with familiar games like, “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” or “Walking, Walking.” For more information and activities, visit Scholastic Parents Teaching Patience

Books Presented

Book cover for Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Piggie tells Gerald she has a surprise for him, but it is not there yet so Gerald must be patient.
Book cover for Miss MacDonald Has a Farm by Kalee Gwarjanski

Miss MacDonald has a Farm by Kalee Gwarjanski

In this female-forward spin on the traditional children’s song, readers meet Miss MacDonald on her vegetable farm and learn about gardening, seasons, plant-based meals, and local produce

Book cover for When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin

When You Have to Wait by Melanie Conklin

A mindful, gentle picture book about patience and learning to find beauty in the act of waiting

Book cover for Pete the Cat Hickory Dickory Dock by Kim Dean

Pete the Cat Hickory Dickory Dock by Kim Dean

Hickory dickory dock. Pete the Cat went up the clock! The clock struck one. The cat went down. Hickory dickory dock.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

There’s Something in the Barn

Open up the barn door, the spring goes “Boink.”
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Oink, oink, oink.”
Open up the barn door before the clock strikes two.
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Moo, moo, moo.”
Open up the barn door, it’s a sunny day.
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Neigh, neigh, neigh.”
Open up the barn door, singing, “Tra-la-la.”
There’s something in the barn, saying, “Blaa, blaa, blaa.”
Open up the barn door, while the sky is blue.
There’s somehing in the barn, saying, “Cock-a-doodle-do!”

Crafts and Activities

Waiting is not easy coloring page featuring Elephant Gerald and Piggie

W is for Waiting - English and Spanish

Coloring page created with Canva and Elephant and Piggie Coloring Pages

 

Elephant and Piggie headband craft

Elephant and Piggie Headband Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for Waiting by Kevin Henkes

Waiting by Kevin Henkes

Five animal toys wait for marvelous things to happen.

Book cover for Ten on a Twig by Lo Cole

Ten on a Twig by Lo Cole

Illustrations and an easy-to-read countdown rhyme follow ten birds that, one by one, fall off the twig on which they were sitting, but the last one finds a surprise waiting.

Book cover for Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown

Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown

When a man brings to a remote village two burros, Alfa and Beto, loaded with books the children can borrow, Ana’s excitement leads her to write a book of her own as she waits for the BibliBurro to return. Includes glossary of Spanish terms and a note on the true story of Columbia’s BiblioBurro and mobile libraries in other countries.

Book cover for Tofu Takes Time by Helen H. Wu

Tofu Takes Time by Helen H. Wu

Lin makes tofu with her grandma and discovers that patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family

More Story Times

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...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: “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 fun ways to introduce numbers to your infant or toddler: 👶 0-1 Year (Introduction to Numbers) Talk & Count: Count fingers, toes, and everyday...

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...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: S is for Soup

Making and eating soup can be a sensory explosion for you and your child, especially when you make it together. Look for ingredients with a variety of colors, textures, and scents, then talk about where they came from, or count the pieces you’ve cut. Here are some...

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: S is for Sharks

Did you know that sharks have been around for over 400 million years? They are older than the dinosaurs! They can lose more that 30,000 teeth in their lifetime, and their babies are called pups. A group of sharks is called a shiver, and a person is more likely to die...

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...

Storytime: W is for Walking Together

Storytime: W is for Walking Together

Storytime: W is for Walking Together

Going on a walk with your child not only develops his gross motor skills, but also creates a break from the techno-bombardments we experience every day. It heightens senses and allows for exploration. So, put on those walking shoes and head out the door for an adventure. Check out more benefits of taking daily walks with your child from Early Learning Children’s Academy.

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

Being able to express yourself verbally is an important skill. Anger, frustration, and sadness can cause children to act out if they don’t know how to express those difficult emotions in words. Books like Noah NOasaurus will assist in starting a conversation about why your child is upset and what he can do to calm himself down. -Lambert

Activity

Read Rosemary Wells’, “Noisy Nora” or another book like Noah NOasaurus in which the main character is upset. Talk with your child about why a person might get upset, and how they can calm themselves.

Books Presented

Book cover for I Went Walking by Sue Williams

I Went Walking by Sue Williams

During the course of a walk, a young boy identifies animals of different colors.
Book cover for Windows by Julia Denos

Windows by Julia Denos

Before your city goes to sleep, you might head out for a walk, your dog at your side as you go out the door and into the almost-night. Anything can happen on such a walk: you might pass a cat, or a friend, or even an early raccoon. And as you go down your street and around the corner, the windows around you light up one by one until you are walking through a maze of paper lanterns, each one granting you a brief, glowing snapshot of your neighbors as families come together and folks settle in for the night.
Book cover for Noah NOasaurus by Elaine Kiely Kearns

Noah NOasaurus by Elaine Kiely Kearns

Noah is in a grumpy mood and wants to be alone, but when his friends follow him around he cannot help but have fun.
Book cover for Whose Footprint is THAT? by Darrin Lunde

Whose Footprint is THAT? by Darrin P. Lunde

A young, playful nonfiction picture book explores the connections between an animal, how it moves, and its tracks. Companion title to 2017’s Whose Poop Is That? Guess the footprints! Written by a mammalogist at the Smithsonian, Whose Tracks Are Those? pairs animal tracks with the respective animal, asking readers to guess which animal left them behind. A page-turn reveals animals ranging from kangaroos to mountain goats in their own habitats.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Daisy the Dinosaur

I’m Daisy, the Dinosaur.
From an egg, I hatched.
I can change my color
When I hear a loud, CLAP!

As I Went Walking to Town

As I went walking to town one day,
I met a ________ along the way,
And what do you think the _______ did say?

Source: Bob McGrath

Ten Little Shoes

Ten little shoes here we go
Let’s all count them as I put them in rows.
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10

Ten little shoes, again we go
Now let’s count them nice and slow
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10

Ten little shoes, in neat rows
Let’s count them as away they go
10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1
Goodbye, shoes!

Source: Pasadena Public Library

Bonus activity! Gather shoes from around your home and line them up with this rhyme. You can also talk about where you might wear the different types of shoes. Then return the shoes to their proper place so they can be found again for a future walking activity!

Crafts and Activities

Coloring page featuring an adult and child going for a walk and encountering farm animals on their way to town.

W is for Walking Together

Coloring page created on Canva
Horse head craft made from paper plates and yarn.

I Went Walking Necklace Craft

Additional Books

Book cover for The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi

The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi

New things can be tricky, but don’t fret — it’s time to make friends with the Magical Yet. With the Yet as your guide, along the way, you’ll do all the things you can’t do today.
Book cover for Whose Feet Are These by Peg Hall

Whose Feet are These? by Peg Hall

Examines a variety of animal feet, noting how they look different and function in different ways.
Book cover for Grandpa & Jake by Julie Fortenberry

Grandpa & Jake by Julie Fortenberry

As the two of them walk through the busy town, Grandpa shares the favorite places he and his own grandpa went together … and Little Jake keeps guessing where they are going. The movies? The baseball park? The beach? ‘Not this time, ‘ says Grandpa, and has Jake close his eyes before going into … the library
Book cover for The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith

The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith

While walking down the road, the narrator sees a donkey that he shares more about as the story progresses.

More Story Times

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...

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: “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 fun ways to introduce numbers to your infant or toddler: 👶 0-1 Year (Introduction to Numbers) Talk & Count: Count fingers, toes, and everyday...

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...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: S is for Soup

Making and eating soup can be a sensory explosion for you and your child, especially when you make it together. Look for ingredients with a variety of colors, textures, and scents, then talk about where they came from, or count the pieces you’ve cut. Here are some...

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: S is for Sharks

Did you know that sharks have been around for over 400 million years? They are older than the dinosaurs! They can lose more that 30,000 teeth in their lifetime, and their babies are called pups. A group of sharks is called a shiver, and a person is more likely to die...

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...

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler Time: Walking Together

APRIL Book Babies + Toddler Time: Walking Together

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 variety of sensory experiences.

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

April National Child Abuse Prevention Month Tips

  • Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special, loved, and capable of following their dreams.
  • Help yourself. When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control- take time out. Don’t take it out on your kid.
  • If your baby cries… It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won’t stop crying. Never shake a baby- shaking a child may result in severe injury or death.

                www.preventchildabuse.org/resources/ten-ways-to-help-prevent-child-abuse/

Activity

  1. Praise your children often when you see them doing something “good.”
  2. Teach your child to resolve conflicts peacefully.
  3. Hold, cuddle, and hug your children often.
  4. Volunteer at your child’s school.
  5. Reflect on the parenting you received as a child and how that impacts how you parent today.
  6. Make time to do something YOU enjoy.

Acenda Integrated Health

Books Presented

Book cover for Rosie's Walk by Pat Hutchins

Rosie's Walk by Pat Hutchins

In this picture book, with a story told in very few words, Rosie the hen takes a walk. Although Rosie doesn’t know it, the fox is chasing her.
Book cover for I Went Walking by Sue Williams

I Went Walking by Sue Williams

During the course of a walk, a young boy identifies animals of different colors.
Book cover for Boop! by Bea Birdsong

Boop! by Bea Birdsong

There are so many snoots to boop! Snoots attached to big dogs and little dogs and dogs with beards and those without. Are you ready to boop ALL the snoots?
Book cover for Turtle Walk by Matt Phelan

Turtle Walk by Matt Phelan

A family of turtles goes for a long, long walk that has an unexpected and very fun ending
Book cover for Walk On! by Maria Frazee

Walk On! by Maria Frazee

Trying something new is never easy. Like walking, for instance. But aren’t you sick of sitting on your bottom day in and day out? Hasn’t lying around all the time become a little bit boring? This handy guide, both practical and inspirational, is here to help. With useful tips, common pitfalls, and Marla Frazee’s adorable illustrations, this book is perfect for anyone–from a baby to a graduate to a grown-up–who’s about to take a scary first step.
Book cover for Mooses Come Walking by Arlo Guthrie

Mooses Come Walking by Arlo Guthrie

Describes the activities of moose as they walk and wander, even looking in the window at you lying in bed.
Book cover for Walk and See 123 by Rosalind Bearshaw

Walk and See 123 by Rosalind Beardshaw

Join an autumnal adventure through the countryside with lots to see and count – all the way to twenty
Book cover for Wiggle, Walk, Wash! by Elliot Kruszynski

Wiggle, Walk, Wash! by Elliot Kruszynski

Splish splash! Baby elephant loves to wash. Wriggle wriggle! Baby worm loves to wiggle. Discover seven happy animals in this bright and bold book for babies.

Songs, Rhymes, and Fingerplays

Hokey Pokey Penny a Lump

Hokey pokey, penny a lump
Up & down, up & down, bumpity- bump
If you jump, you’re sure to fall
Hokey pokey, that is all!

Source: The Pawling Library

Ten Little Shoes

Ten little shoes here we go
Let’s all count them as I put them in rows.
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10

Ten little shoes, again we go
Now let’s count them nice and slow
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10

Ten little shoes, in neat rows
Let’s count them as away they go
10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1
Goodbye, shoes!

Source: Pasadena Public Library

As I Went Walking to Town

As I went walking to town one day,
I met a ________ along the way,
And what do you think the _______ did say?

Hello Bubble

Hello bubble, hello bubble,
Come and land, come and land,
Right in the middle, right in the middle,
Of my hand, of my hand.

Source: Verona Storytime

 

Everyone Can Shake

Everyone can shake, shake, shake
Everyone can shake, shake, shake
Everyone can shake, shake, shake
And now let’s make a stop.
Verses: Everyone can tap, Everyone can clap, Everyone can wave, etc.

Source: Jbrary

Choo Choo Song

Choo choo choo choo, Choo choo choo choo
Up the railroad track
Choo choo choo choo, Choo choo choo choo
Then we come right back (whole thing x2)
First we go to _________ house and then we go to _________ house
And then we go to…… (say all kids’ names)
And then we come right back!
Choo choo choo choo, Choo choo choo choo
Up the railroad track
Choo choo choo choo, Choo choo choo choo
Then we come right back! Yay! 

Source: L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library

Baby Sign Language

More Book Babies

FEBRUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: “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 fun ways to introduce numbers to your infant or toddler: 👶 0-1 Year (Introduction to Numbers) Talk & Count: Count fingers, toes, and everyday...

JANUARY Book Babies + Toddlers: S is for Soup

Making and eating soup can be a sensory explosion for you and your child, especially when you make it together. Look for ingredients with a variety of colors, textures, and scents, then talk about where they came from, or count the pieces you’ve cut. Here are some...

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...

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...

Pin It on Pinterest