5 Steps to a Successful Storytime

You want to go to library storytime with your child, but you're afraid. Afraid that during "Ten Little Monkeys," your little monkey will be bouncing off walls and showing everyone his new owie. Here are some tips to ensure your first storytime need not be your last:

1. Take your child to your local library often. Meet the librarian; visit the children's area to explore books and puzzles. Let your child choose books that tickle her fancy. Demonstrate "inside feet" and "inside voices." Increasing your child's familiarity with the library will help her feel comfortable with the atmosphere come storytime.

2. Introduce yourself to the fun children's librarians. The dour lemon-sucker who doesn't really like kids still exists in a few libraries, but you can seek out her gregarious opposite. She'll welcome your family into the world of reading through engaging, child-friendly storytimes. You may have to settle into a new library home branch, but the reward will be obvious during your visits.

3. Match the storytime to your child's age and temperament. Some libraries offer lapsit storytimes for babies, or toddler-themed storytimes that incorporate lots of movement and song. Preschoolers with short attention spans might feel more at home in toddler programs. A good match means fewer interruptions and fairy-tale faux pas.

4. Get involved during storytime, and don't feel worried about looking a little ridiculous. Model good storytime behavior and save chatting with other moms for afterwards. Sing along, ooh and ahh, make animal noises, and do the hokey-pokey. Children love to mimic, particularly the adult they love best. After storytime is over, you'll probably find that your child wants to check out the featured titles in order to read them repeatedly at home.

5. If you must, leave and try again. If you need to, start with a small goal five minutes of sitting still and paying attention can be a success for a very active toddler. Go in the morning, with full bellies and (hopefully) happy dispositions. Avoid attending when Junior is sick, hungry, or not in the best of moods. Gradually work your way up to longer periods of time but don't give up! The pleasures and treasures of storytime are worth the wait!