Storytime Information

 

Plumb Library storytimes are an interactive mix of early literacy fun with books, letters, numbers, songs, fingerplays, action rhymes, music, movement, games, and lively discussions.  Following the storytime routines, an art activity and snack are available. Plumb Storytime groups are age and development based. Usually, there is a Fall, Winter, and Spring session.  For 2024, the Winter and Spring sessions were combined and ran from January through March. Group meetings are held once per week for approximately 6 weeks.  Online Registration is REQUIRED and spots are limited to children within the age range of the group.  Registration will open for NEW registrants approximately one month before the session begins.  Please call the library to learn when the next session will be held.  Although we happily welcome siblings, sessions are for registered children fitting the age range of the group only.  Storytimes are free thanks to the support of the Friends of Plumb Library.

There are four storytime groups:

Baby and Toddler Tales  –  for ages 9-24 months, Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.  

Baby and Toddler Tales is an interactive lap-sit program for children ages 9-24 months.  Caregivers must participate with their child.  Online registration is required.  Families must contact the library by PHONE if they cannot attend a class/session.

Preschool Power  –  for ages 3-5: Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. or Thursdays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

This is an interactive  program for children ages 3-5 years old.  Online registration is required. Children are encouraged to independently participate with caregiver support as needed.  Families must contact the library by PHONE if they cannot attend a class/session.

Twos and Threes Together  –  for ages 2-3, Fridays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

This is an interactive partial lap-sit program for children ages 2-3 years old.  While some children may still need lap support, others may not.  However, even if a child is ready to sit on their own, caregivers must participate with their child. Families must contact the library by PHONE if they cannot attend a class/session.

 

IMPORTANT DETAILS!

  • Plumb Storytime utilizes the “Every Child Ready to Read” program which focuses on the 5 skills that children will need to help them learn to read: Talking, Singing, Reading, Playing and Writing.
    • Talking with children helps children learn oral language, one of the most critical early literacy skills. Children learn about language by listening to others talk and joining in the conversation.
    • Singing develops language skills. Singing slows down language so children can hear the different sounds in words. Singing helps children learn new words and information.
    • Reading together develops vocabulary and comprehension, nurtures a love for reading, and motivates children to want to learn to read.
    • Playing is one of the best ways for children to learn language and literacy skills. They learn about language through playing as the activities help them put thoughts into words and talk about what they are doing!
    • Writing letters and words helps children become aware that printed letters have sounds and letters together stand for spoken words.
  • During storytime, we will also work on self-regulation, self-confidence, and cooperative behavior. 
  • Crafts and snacks are prepared for the number of children registered only. We’ll gladly provide unregistered guests or siblings with coloring sheets, puzzles, or books.
  • Storytime placement and routine is based on birth dates.  We are always flexible to discuss your child’s placement to ensure the best developmental fit.
  • Once the storytime, craft, and snack is completed, families are encouraged to participate in free play to socialize with each other.
  • Promptness and attendance is important!  By registering your child, you are agreeing to commit to attendance at a multi-week program.  PLEASE call us at 508-763-8600 ASAP if you can’t attend a meeting, if you are running late, or if you need to drop out of a session.  PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL!  Emails do not get read in time.
  • Storytime follows the Rochester Memorial School schedule. Storytime will not be held if RMS is closed unless otherwise noted.  When in doubt, call us or check the library’s website or Facebook page for closures.
  • We hope that all caregivers will help us reinforce appropriate library and social behavior!  For many children, storytime will be their first peer group experience.  We will model positive, kind interactions with peers and adults: walking feet, inside voices, listening ears, sharing with friends, and gentle treatment of library items.  Please step in when necessary to help your child cooperate.
  • If storytime is your child’s first group experience, we suggest you visit the library with your child before their first storytime meeting.  Knowing what to expect helps everyone feel comfortable.
  • If your child becomes uncooperative or restless, please quietly leave our group to relax and refocus. Rejoin the group when your child is ready.
  • Please keep in mind that you set the example for your child. There is ample time to socialize when free play begins!
  • Gentle indoor play time is encouraged after our structured meeting. Playtime must be monitored by caregivers.  We will provide various play items, but all families are responsible for clean-up!
  • The program doesn’t end when you go home!  Please talk about storytime activities, talk, write and draw, play, sing, and read books at bedtime, quiet time, or anytime!

FOR CAREGIVERS!
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