Growing Readers

How Dreamy

2012-01-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

If a duckling grows and becomes a duck, can a car grow and...become a truck? If a kitten grows and becomes a cat, can a cap grow and...become a hat? Do you know which ones will grow? Think, then answer Yes or No. Do You Know Which Ones Will Grow? By Susan A. Shea.

Question: What do you do when Pete's in a bad mood?Answer: Turn him into a pizza, or course! Pete's A Pizza By William Steig.

Do some birds really build their
nests in a cactus? Do animals live under the Antarctic ice? Find out as you read and learn about some wonderful animalsand their weird homes! Weird But True Animal Homes By Carmen Bredeson.

Shark's not afraid of anything. The dark? Nah. A big mean bear? Don't make him laugh! But there is one thing that even Shark fears...Can you guess what it is? I'm a Shark By Bob Shea.
The kids made dream catchers, using paper plates, feathers, beads, and yarn. They turned out great! The reading and crafting preschool train is chugging along, come join the fun.

-Carol

Toothpicks and Marshmallows!

2012-01-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

Carmelita loves to greet everyone in her neighborhood,
and what a colorful neighborhood she lives in. There are people from so many different cultures, and they all like to say hello too. Rachel Isadora's book Say Hello! is a fun place to explore.

Rolf is a good little wolf. But one day he meets up with-guess who?-the Big Bad Wolf. Will Rolf discover a big bad wolf inside him? You'll want to sink your teeth into this funny tale, Good Little Wolf By Nadia Shireen.

Edward loves his STUFF more than anything...until he gets buried beneath it. Will Edward agree to part with his STUFF before it's too late? Read Stuff By Margie Palatini to find out!
When Little Mouse finds a delicious apple, he knows exactly what to do. He decides to keep it a secret from all of his friends. But by the end of this charming story, Little Mouse realizes it's better to share a secret than to keep it all to one's self, Little Mouse's Big Secret By Eric Battut.

We made toothpick and marshmallow sculptures! Talk about fun, I think we have some architects and engineers at story time. The fun continues every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m., come check it out.

-Carol

2012-01-12T12:04:00.000-08:00

Story time is back so that means one thing, great books! In Happy Pig Day! Piggie celebrates her favorite day of the year! But will Gerald the Elephant be included in the festivities? Read Mo Willems book to find out.

In the busy city, there are lots of people with hats. But there is only one guy with a bear in his hat. That's Milo. The Magician. Jon Agee's book Milo's Hat Trick will leave you wanting a magic hat of your own.

You'd expect a boy with a name like Livingstone Columbus Magellan Crouse to explore. But Livingstone Columbus Megallen Crouse doesn't stop there- he comes home with specimens from his travels! Curious readers are in for a fun adventure. Not Inside This House! By Kevin Lewis

Join the fun every Tuesday, at 10 a.m. in the Carnegie Room. Ages 4-6 and story time is always free.

Carol

A New Year

2012-01-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

Well, 2012 has officially begun but nothing says the start of a new year like "STORYTIMES ARE BACK!"

Starting Tuesday our Winter StoryTime Session begins. Here is the line up:

Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.~Emergent Reader Storytime includes fun crafts, stories and a snack.

Wednesdays @ 10 and 10:45 a.m.~ Infant Toddler Time with stories, songs, fingerplays and lots of smiles.

Every other Thursday 10:30 a.m.~ Busy Hands and Feet whihch says it all. Stories, rhymes, music, movement and, of course, laughs!

New this year is Family Storytime in Spanish every third Saturday 11:00 a.m.

Hope to see you here this winter! Diana

It's a wrap!

2011-11-16T10:32:00.000-08:00

The Emergent Reader Story Time is done for the year, but don't worry we'll be back January 10th. In the mean time, here are the great books we read from this past Tuesday.

Some people go to work at offices, while others go to hospitals or restaurants or schools. Some work outdoors, some travel from place to place. Shelley Rotner and Ken Kreisler's book, Everybody Works is a photographic look at the many ways in which people (and even animals) accomplish their work.

In his signature playful style, Todd Parr empowers kids to face their fears and say, "I'm not scared!" The I'm Not Scared Book By Todd Parr.

Chicken's cow visitors try to jump, dance, and wiggle on his couch, which is much too tiny for such exuberant activities. Read Jan Thomas' book Is Everyone Ready For Fun? for a jumping good time.

See you in January!

-Carol

Fun with Math

2011-10-31T15:16:00.000-07:00

Every Child Ready to Read 2nd edition has included some new information for parents of kids 0 to 5 years of age. The program states "the more your child knows about the world and the more words they have to describe what they have seen and experienced, the better prepared they are for reading success." Using a child’s natural curiosity they can learn new words and increase their knowledge about the world around them.
Click here to link to a page about books on additon and subtraction.

I am excited about the new edition as it is much more user friendly and makes it all so much fun. Watch for free classes in the future for parents and kids on fun with letters, words and math and science.

Have a great day and see you @ your library, McMinnville Public Library that is!
Diana

2011-10-19T10:12:00.000-07:00

Only four story times left! Mark Tuesdays on your calendars because the fun continues with great books, fun crafts, and healthy snacks. This week we read these five fantastic books and decorated heart, star, and oval shaped glasses made out of cardstock.

It's time to sleep! You can doze off standing on one leg, settle down for a nap on the sea floor, or crawl to a hole and snooze until spring. Or perhaps you'd rather slip into a slimy sleeping bag?In this bedtime book, Steve Jenkins and Robin Page take a look at some of the unusual ways animals get their rest. Time To Sleep By Steve Jenkins and Robin Page.

You won't believe why this old lady swallowed some leaves, a shirt, a pumpkin, a pole, some pants, a rope, and some hay! Read There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Som

e Leaves! By Lucille Colandro to find out.

It's Wodney Wat's birthday and he gets one tewiffic pwesent- a wobot! It isn't just any old wobot, though. This wobot can talk! Wodney Wat's Wobot By Helen Lester

Baby animals grow up in all kinds of different habitats. Meet cute baby animals and their families as you explore their homes. Baby Animals of the Mountains By Carmen Bredeson.

It's crazy, it's fun, it's got a hole in the middle! Herve Tullet's book The Book With A Hole is filled with zany drawings and inventive ideas. The children loved this book, and couldn't get enough of it. Check it out!

-Carol

The Fun Continues!

2011-10-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

If your parents ever say, "Time for a Mystery Ride!" do not be fooled. Mystery Rides are not fun. Or cool. Or even mysterious, really. Except for this one time...Mystery Ride By Scott Magoon.

Did that pumpkin just quack? Read Pumpkin Trouble By Jan Thomas
to find out.

Baby Owl is not ready for his first day at preschool. He tries lots of different ways to delay going, with hilarious results, but finds out that preschool can be fun! I'm not Ready! By Jonathan Allen

Earthworms inch along on the ground, but are they the slowest animal in the world? Slow animals crawl on land, wiggle through the ocean, and hang out in trees. Read all about the animals who take slow to the EXTREME! The Slowest Animals By Catherine Ipcizade

We didn't stop with just the slowest animals, we read The Creepiest Animals also By Catherine Ipcizade. Vampire bats lapping up blood are creepy, but are they the creepiest animal in the world?

We made music shakers today, or some parents might be calling them noise makers right about now. Using paper plates, dry rice and beans, and staples, Viola! You have a music/noise maker. Decorate however you want.
Join me every Tuesday for great books, fun crafts, and healthy snacks!

-Carol

Books and Ceramics

2011-10-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

Great books are always on the menu at the Emergent Reader Story Time and this week was no exception.

Snuggle up with this true story of the tiny piglet who finds a home with the most unexpected of families! Little Pink Pup By Johanna Kerby.A hilarious new Fly Guy adventure when Fly Guy joins Buzz's class on a trip to a flyswatter factory, it's the "best field trip ever!" Fly Guy vs. the Flyswatter! By Tedd Arnold

The Looking Closely series inspires readers to take a second look at their natural surroundings through the magical lens of close-up photography. Looking Closely Across the Desert By Frank Serafini.

Beware of this book it is full of wild boars! They are dirty and smelly, bed-tempered and rude, so whatever you do, do not try to make friends with them. Meet Wild Boars By Meg Rosoff.

Every face in the world is unique and special, but they all have some things in common. Here, with simple text and appealing, expressive photographs, young readers can see the many different faces all over the world. Faces By Shelley Rotner

Carol

We're Back!

2011-09-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

Story Time is back and I have great stories to share, wonderful crafts to make, and healthy snacks to eat. All that is missing is you! Join the fun every Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. at the McMinnville Public Library. Story time is for preschoolers (ages 4-6).

This past Tuesday we worked with watercolor paints, and read these funny books.

It's so hard trying to decide what animal makes a great pet, so check out What Pet to Get? By Emma Dodd and read about a boy named Jack who has to figure out just which pet will fit.

This octopus has seven friends coming over, and everyone wants something different for dinner. Having eight arms can come in handy! You're invited to read Dinner for Eight By Roger DeMuth.

The pigeon really, really, really wants a puppy. Do you think it's a good idea? The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! By Mo Willems.

-Carol

Story Time Starts Soon

2011-09-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to pop in and say that we will be starting story time very soon.
Starts Tuesday, September 13th!

Tuesdays @ 10 am ~ Emergent Reader Story Time~ for children 4-6 years old
Wednesdays @ 10 and 10:45 ~ Infant Toddler Time ~ for children birth to 3 years old
Every other Thursday (9/15, 9/27, 10/13, 10/27, and 11/10) @ 10:30 ~ Busy Hands and Feet Story time ~ for children 1-6 years old
The Busy Hands and Feet Story Time Fall season will focus on "Back to Basics". I will start with alphabet books on September 15th. Please join me for fun with letters.
Diana

Story Time Will Be Back!

2011-08-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

The Emergent Reader Story Time will return Tuesday, September 13th. Join me for books, crafts, and snacks every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. Story Time is for kid's age 4 to 6 years old. Mark the date on your calendar for this crafty story time for preschoolers. No registration required.

See you in September!

Carol

Fun Time!

2011-07-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, time might not be the funniest subject, but making a clock is fun. Emergent Reader Story Time kids made clocks! Using cardboard, scrap paper, and brass paper fasteners they fashioned some awesome looking clocks. Hopefully, they will learn more about telling time. There is only one story time left before we take a break. We read five fantastic books.

Little bird gets a boo boo on his head, but what will make him feel better? His animal friends try just about everything, but you'll have to read Boo Hoo Bird by Jeremy Tankard to find out what it takes to make this little bird go from sad to happy.

Are you ready? Here we go! Move yourself, From Head to Toe. Eric Carle’s joyful book about movement will have you kicking and wriggling!

Fourteen animal homes, fourteen guesses! Wayne Lynch's book Whose House Is This? has great photographs of animal homes, but which animal made the home? And that's where the fun starts.

Wayne Lynch's other book is Whose Nose Is This? A continuation of his animal book series, but in this book we only get to see a photograph of a nose. The kids loved this book and some kids guessed right! You'll love it.

Sharing can be tough sometimes, especially when it comes to sharing ice cream! But Elephant & Piggie are friends, so what will happen when Elephant gets a yummy, sweet ice cream? Will he share? Should I Share My Ice Cream? By Mo Willems is delicious fun!

Okay, one story time left. We'll be making masks.

-Carol

Bead it!

2011-07-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday at story time we made bracelets. They turned out so cute, and I had a little surprise for the kids. They each got a brand new beanie baby! Thanks to my wonderful sister Sandra for donating a whole box of brand new toys. Yeah! But the fun didn't stop there; We read some fantastic books too.

It's brains versus brawn in this hilarious picture book, and the results surprise everyone. Except, perhaps, those darn squirrels. Those Darn Squirrels and the Cat Next Door by Adam Rubin will have you wanting to get a pet squirrel, maybe.

Which animal has the most dangerous bottom? Which animal gets scratches on its bottom by rubbing it on tree trunks and termite mounds? Read Whose Bottom Is This? By Wayne Lynch and have fun identifying who owns the bottoms in this book.

Whether getting eye-to-eye with a hippopotamus or nose-to-nose with a bison, there's not a zoo in the world where readers can get as close to the animals as they do in More Life-Size Zoo by Teruyuki Komiya. This series is one of my all time favorites so check it out. You won't believe your eyes.

I can't believe we only have two story times left! Please join the fun, we make a craft at every story time, munch on healthy snacks, and of course, we read great books!

-Carol

Clap for Clay!

2011-07-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

This past Tuesday we discovered the fun of using oven bake clay. It's so easy, start shaping and molding the clay into just about anything you want, then with adult supervision bake the clay at 275 for fifteen minutes. And Voila! You have sculpture, you have art, and you have fun.

No matter what day of the week it is, Toby is up to no good! Emma loves her dog, but something has to be done...Read Always in Trouble by Corinne Demas to find out if Toby gets out and stays out of trouble.

Read here, Press here, Fun here! You have never read or seen a book like Herve Tullet's book Press Here.

From spaceships to goblin fingers, otherworldly wonders wait in the rain forest- it's just a matter of Looking Closely! Take a look at Frank Serafini's book Looking Closely in the Rain Forest.

It's not too late to catch the fun on Tuesdays; we've got three story times left. I'll be looking for you.

- Carol

Magnificent Magnets

2011-06-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

We're just getting started at the Emergent Reader Story Time. The kids made bottle cap magnets! And let me tell you, they turned out great. I'm always saying how creative and expressive the kids are, they truly inspire me. We munched on apple slices, grapes, and cheese. Yummy!

Think you know everything that lives in and outside a pond? You might have to rub your eyes, check your imagination, or both to believe what you see when you read, Looking Closely Around The Pond by Frank Serafini.

Every child has a not to do list, right? Is that list seventeen things long?
Read a story about a girl that sets the standard for "not allowed" to do anymore. 17 Things I'm Not allowed to do Anymore by Jenny Offill.

Raise your hand if you have met a talking dog. What, you haven't met a talking dog? Then you need to meet Ralph. RRRalph by Lois Ehlert finally answers the question, can dogs really "talk."

-Carol

Story Time Is Coming!

2011-06-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Join me for five fun filled story times starting Tuesday, June 28th. If you're looking for something to do with your preschooler (ages 4-6) this summer, look no further. The Emergent Reader Story Time is always free, always crafty, and always fun. Doors open at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room. Join other parents and preschoolers for books, craft time, and snacks.

I can't wait!
Carol

It's not too late...one story time left...hurry!

2011-05-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

I see thirty minutes of fun, books, and crafts in your future. Hurry. Tuesday, May 17th. 10:00 a.m. You. Me. Fun. :)-

-Carol

Pirates, Dogs, and Frogs!

2011-05-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

The Emergent Reader Story Time is winding down- Tuesday, May 17th will be the last story time until June 28th, so buckle your car seat, grab your library card and head to the library for two incredibly fun filled story times. Each week I look for the newest and funniest picture books to share and this past week was no exception. We started with a classic Bark, George By Jules Feiffer. George's mother wants him to bark, he is after all a dog, but something is down with George. Pig is determined not to take a bath, but he wants adventure so he'll have to figure out whether Eskimos, cowboys, or astronauts take baths, check out Pirates Don't Take Baths By John Segal. The Wide Mouthed Frog By Keith Faulkner is one popping fun story about a talkative frog with a huge mouth. Bon Appetit!

-Carol

Book on down to story time

2011-04-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

What do two dogs, one big hen, animal bites, and hands have in common? They are all fun books available through the McMinnville Public Library, of course! In Just One Bite By Lola Schaefer we learn how much eleven animals can eat in just one bite, life size. Hungry fox watches hen get bigger and bigger from the hill top, but will fox be too late? Check out Hungry Hen By Richard Waring to find out the answer. Mister Bud has a good doggy schedule, so how will he cope when another dog joins the household? Say Hello To Zorro! By Carter Goodrich is doggy fun. A rhyming book about hands, Hands Can By Cheryl Willis Hudson, shows all the amazing things hands can do: clap, wave, mold, and plant. You'll be inspired by the great photographs too.

Story Time
is every
Tuesday
morning
at 10:00 a.m.
Book on down
and join the fun.

-Carol

A Roaring Good Time

2011-04-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

Pelican meets a strange new animal in the jungle, but gets hippopotamuses name wrong when he goes to spread the news in the jungle of his arrival. Hippopotamus will have several funny belly laughing names by the time elephant hears of this strange new animal. Snarlyhissopus By Alan MacDonald will make your sides hurt.

One morning all the animals in the jungle wake to find that they have the wrong voices. Rooster roars like a lion, Elephant hisses like a snake, and Snake squawks like a parrot! You won't forget the book, The Giraffe who Cock-a-Doodle-Doo'd By Keith Faulkner.

Smiley Shark loves to smile, but everyone is afraid of his big sharp teeth. When all his fish friends are caught in a net though, they need Smiley Shark's help and a big smile might just be the answer. Smiley Shark By Ruth Galloway.

As the sun was setting over the rain forest, the little bug yawned. That made the parrot yawn. And that made the snake yawn. Who will yawn next...? Read, The Big Yawn By Keith Faulkner, to find out.

I will have new picture books for story time next week (Tuesday, April 26th), so join us for books, giggles, and crafts!

-Carol

Spilling the beans about Story Time

2011-04-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

It's amazing what you can do with just some dried beans, glue and paper. These were the materials we used on Tuesday to create one of a kind artwork. We have some amazing artists here at Story Time and it appears they can work with just about any material I give them- way to go story time crafters!

We also enjoyed National Geographic Kids Oceans By Johnna Rizzo. Puffer fish, green sea turtles, jumbo jellyfish, and great white sharks- you'll find everything under the ocean and more.

Making friends can be difficult sometimes, so what colorful lengths will black crow go to make friends? Read Crow By Leo Timmers to enjoy this tale about one lonely crow and his three potential friends.

Big is big, right? Well, big might depend on viewpoint and in Thomas Docherty's book Big Scary Monster, one "big " blue monster learns that point of view can change your status and demeanor.

Three mice find three jars of paint, causing a lot of color commotion. You'll learn just what happens when three white mice mix red, yellow, and blue in Ellen Stoll Walsh's book Mouse Paint. You can say this story is saturated in fun.

Join the fun every Tuesday morning. I look forward to seeing you :-)

-Carol

Paperlicous!

2011-04-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

We have been in experimental mode over at Emergent Reader Story Time. On my search for crafts, we have been using a range of materials for craft making: a first for me was making paper sculptures out of strips of paper, tape, and cardboard for a base. The kids really got into making their sculptures and so did the adults!

Will Alfred ever love his nose? Alfred is a French bulldog that is having issues with his nose, but there just might be an answer to his dog gone nose problem. Read Alfred's Nose By Vivienne Flesher for doggy fun.

Join the fun every Tuesday morning at ten o'clock at the McMinnville Public Library. Creative minded, book loving preschoolers always welcomed!

-Carol

I Spy...Story Time!

2011-03-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

That's right the Emergent Reader Story Time is back from spring break. And boy did we kick story time off with a hit. I-Spy bottles! We used recycled plastic tennis ball bottles, a big bag of
white rice, and an array of fun trinkets and you have your very own I-Spy game.

Poor Gerald has broken his trunk, but wait until you hear the story of how he broke his trunk. Elephant & Piggie are back for another go around in,
I Broke My Trunk! By Mo Willems.

Duck has kisses to give, but the question is does poodle want to be on the receiving end? Will duck and poodle work things out? To find out the answers to these questions read Stop Kissing Me! By Ethan Long.

You won't be able to guess all the modes of transportation one very bold lady is willing to use to reach a star. The rhyming in There Was a Bold Lady Who Wanted a Star By Charise Mericle Harper will leave you smiling.

A group of cats want to share some of their secrets, but first you're going to have to meow or purr to prove you're a cat. Jef Czekahj's book Cat Secrets will put your kitty skills to the test.

Have you ever read a picture book about a bird and a gorilla being best friends? Sarah Adams' book Gary and Ray is filled with beautiful illustrations of just such a friendship. Gary the gorilla and Ray the bird are best friends, but will someone join them? Enjoy!

Join me every Tuesday through May 17th for books, crafts, and snacks!
Story time is always at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room. For kids ages 4-6.

-Carol

Life Size Book Fun!

2011-03-02T14:36:00.000-08:00

We read three great books at story time this past Tuesday. The kids loved trying to guess animal noses, if you think you can spot a red fox nose then read Whose Nose Is This?, By Wayne Lynch to test your animal nose knowledge. Sometimes you just need a hug, and Douglas the bear is on the search for just the right hug. Read Hugless Douglas By David Melling to find out if Douglas finds the perfect hug. The Life-Size books are my favorite animal books, ever! The title says it all, life size! Teruyuki Komiya's Life-Size Aquarium will wow you; the fold out photo of the walrus is one of my favorites.

Tuesday, March 8th will be the last story time before our short spring break. Story Time will resume Tuesday, March 29th. Story Time is always free, always at 10:00 a.m., and always fun.
I look forward to seeing everyone! -Carol

If You Love Books...

2011-02-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Come check out the Emergent Reader Story Time. Tuesday we read four fun books, starting with A Day in the Life of a Zookeeper by Nate LeBoutillier, think you know everything a zookeeper does in one day? You might be surprised to find out just how much a zookeeper does! To find out the most interesting facts about animals then you should read Out of Sight by Pittau & Gervais. Did you know pigs are good swimmers? Neither did I, this is just one of the amazing facts you'll discover in this book. And what else besides a fly will an old lady swallow, let me give you a hint, they rhyme with course, hat, and log! Read, Taback Simms' book There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, to finish this riddle. So just who will be delivering your next pizza? And what would you say if a cat delivered your pizza? The crowd favorite goes to Virginia Walters' book, Hi, Pizza Man! -Carol

Springing Into Action

2011-02-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day story time was a hit. The kids stamped, colored, and glued to their hearts delight. They made beautiful cards to give away. Instead of cookies, we gobbled up red and pink cupcakes. Yummy! And just as delicious, we gobbled up two funny books, Banana! By Ed Vere and Can I Play Too? By Mo Willems.

Next week's story time is a mystery. I will have all new picture books to share, but I am keeping the craft a mystery. Hmm, what will i find in my craft box next? Come to story time to find out. :-)

Spring is just around the corner- that means I will be looking for new nature crafts to make, and spring theme picture books to share.

Join the fun every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room.

Carol

Valentine's Day Story Time

2011-02-03T12:54:00.000-08:00

Painting rocks was lots of fun, but get ready for Tuesday, February 8th's story time because the entire story time will be devoted to Valentine's Day. We are going to make Valentine cards, snack on cookies, and read Valentine stories.

Last week we read Guido Van Genechtens book, No Ghost Under My Bed. Read the book to find out if this little penguin actually has a ghost in his room, conveniently at bedtime.

Want to see a cute Sumatran orangutan baby or how about a baby aardvark named Amani? Then check out Zoo Borns! by Andrew Bleiman and Chris Eastland.

We also read, Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak . A rumpus, a king, and wild things. It does not get much better than that!

Rocks Rule!

2011-01-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

Join us Tuesday, February 1st for rock painting. It was raining at story time this past Tuesday. We made rain sticks. Using mailing tubes, aluminum foil, dried beans, and rice the kids did a great job making and decorating their rain sticks. Way to go story time crafters!

Think you can guess the name of Mr. Putney's unique animal friends? Check out Mr. Putney's Quacking Dog by Jon Agee to test your wacky animal name knowledge.

Jonathan Allen's, I'm not scared! I'm not cute! will introduce you and your preschooler to the cutest and funniest little owl.

Come check out the Emergent Reader Story Time. It rocks!

-Carol

Birds!

2011-01-19T11:33:00.000-08:00

We love birds here at story time, so we made bird feeders using pine cones, peanut butter, and bird seed. I read that birds need a little help this time of year, food is scarce for them, so putting up a bird feeder is a nice thing to do for our feathered friends. And what would story time be without some awesome books.

Do you know where cobras live? How about river otters?
Well, for answers check out Wayne Lynch's book Whose House Is This?

If you have a preschooler with a lot of bedtime requests, One More Hug for Madison by Caroline Jayne Church will shed some light on who falls asleep first sometimes.

Is he a chicken or is he an elephant? Or is he something else entirely?
This newborn chicken is so big it's confusing all the other chickens. Reading Chicken Big by Keith Graves will put a big smile on your face.

Lizards by Nic Bishop has incredibly detailed photos of komodo dragons, chameleons, and of course lizards.
Do you want to see a flying dragon soaring through the air? How about a leaf-tailed gecko camouflaged on a leaf? If you answered yes, then this is the book for you.

Story time is always free and always fun. Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room. See you Tuesday, January 25th for more books, crafts, and fun.

-Carol

Mark Your Calendars!

2010-12-16T12:16:00.000-08:00

The Emergent Reader Story Time begins Tuesday, January 11th at 10:00 a.m.
If you have a child between the ages of four and six that loves books and making crafts then come check out this fun book loving story time at the McMinnville Public Library.

Every week I gather as many new books and craft ideas as I possibly can to share with preschoolers and parents. Make sure your child comes dressed in clothes that can get a little dirty, story time is sometimes messy. Story time will be every Tuesday through March 15th.

Here are some of the new books at the McMinnville Children's Library. Enjoy!

Carol

A one and a...

2010-11-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we only have two Emergent Reader story times left! Walk, run, jump, or skip to the McMinnville Public Library for preschool book and craft fun. On Tuesday, November 9th we will be making an owl craft and reading Kyo Maclear's new book Spork. And on Tuesday, November 16th we will be celebrating our last story time with of course, a story time party! You don't want to miss the fun. Winter session begins Tuesday, January 11th.

See you at story time!

Carol

BOOgie on down to story time

2010-10-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

The next two Emergent Reader story times are dedicated to yes, you guessed it, Halloween! This coming Tuesday (October 19th) we will be making paper Halloween garlands. Using moon, bat, and ghost shapes, the kids will make their very own garland to hang. Come join the crafty fun! Tuesday, October 26th kids are welcome to wear their costumes to story time. We'll be making pumpkin rattles and munching on Halloween cupcakes, yummy. I have a fantastic book to share with everyone, Candace Fleming's new book Clever Jack Takes The Cake.

See you at story time!

Carol

Painting story time with fun!

2010-10-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

Story Time is moving right along, and so are the fun activities and books. Today we used brown paper bags to paint and doodle. We read two stories from Lucy Cousins's book Yummy: Eight Favorite Fairy Tales, we peeked at some terrific photos from Animals Up Close by Igor Siwanowicz, and I couldn't resist sharing Tom Arma's book Water Babies.

Thanks to all the new preschoolers and parents that decided to come check out story time. It's always great to see new faces.

Story time is always free and so is the fun!

Carol

Figure That!

2010-09-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the preschoolers and their parents for attending the first Emergent Reader story time for the fall season (Tuesday, September 14th).
The kids sculpted figures and shapes with air dry clay. I noticed a lot of the parents getting into the activity as well; I think clay is simply irresistible.

I shared some terrific books with the kids. A big hit was More Life Size Zoo by Teruyuki Komiya. If you don't know about the Life Size Zoo books, run, okay walk, to the nearest computer and look them up. You will not be disappointed.

Another fanastic book Camouflage Clues by Megan Cooley Peterson. Camouflage Clues is a new animal camouflage hide-and-seek book. This book is fun and if you've never seen an Asian Horned Frog, you're in for a treat.

One story time down, nine more to go! The Emergent Reader Story Time runs through November, 16th so run, okay walk to the McMinnville Public Library for fun and of course books!

Carol

Story Times Are Back!

2010-09-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

Come join the fun every Tuesday, September 14th through November 16th. The Emergent Reader Story Time is a fun place where I get to share my love of books and my love of making crafts, with preschoolers and their parents. We meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room and story time is always free! If you have a four, five, and/or six year old that loves books and making crafts then this is the place to be on Tuesday mornings.
I look forward to seeing everyone.

Carol

Back to School

2010-08-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I know it is only August 10th but with the cloudy weather we have been having I can't help but think that school is close to starting. I remember fondly picking out new clothes and supplies for that first day of a new school year. I also know that kids sometimes have difficulties starting a new year so I thought I would put together a booklist about starting school. Along with that list, I have included several good titles about other things that happen at school. Many of the titles are either in preschool or picture books with a few easy readers and chapter books thrown in. Click here for the booklist.

Since the story times are on a break we have play time on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10-11 am. Please join with other kids and family for a fun unsupervised activity and afterwards don't forget to come to the Children's Room for some great books.

Diana

Sizzling Summer Fun

2010-07-20T15:02:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to the Emergent Reader Story Time this summer, you've been missing a crafty good time. This summer the kids made paper bag robots, cardboard collages, wax paper art, and double decker bus pictures. Whew! We've read some great books I'm the Best by Lucy Cousins, Life Size Zoo by Teriyuki Komiya, Are you a Horse? by Andy Rash, and The Patterson Puppies and the Midnight Monster Party by Leslie Patricelli.

There is one more Emergent Reader story time left, Tuesday, July 27th @ 10:00 a.m. Please join the fun as we celebrate with books, crafts, and cupcakes! Look for the Emergent Reader Story Time to return in the Fall.

Carol

Busy Hands and Feet

2010-06-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Well it is finally summertime and the story times resume at the McMinnville Public Library. The Busy Hands and Feet story time was well attended and proved to be full of smiles and laughter.
To go along with the summer reading theme, Make a Splash @ Your Library!, I read stories about Bathtime and Bubbles.

Bubble Bath Pirates! by Jarrett J. Krosoczka was one of the stories and it appeals to those kids who love pirates.

Come join us for the next two sessions, Thursdays July 8 and 22 at 10:30. And I will make sure there are plenty of bubbles and smiles.
Hope to see you there!
Diana

Get ready!!

2010-06-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering, "What am I going to do with my crafty, artistic, book loving preschooler this summer?" The Emergent Reader Storytime just might be the answer. Join the fun every Tuesday, June 29th through July 27th as we make crafts, read lots of great books, and munch on healthy snacks. (Parents please keep in mind that storytime can get a little messy sometimes, so please dress your child accordingly.) Storytime is at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room and it's always free.

I can't wait to see everyone!!

Carol

Storytime Party

2010-05-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

Come join the fun, Tuesday, May 18th at 10:00 a.m. as we celebrate the wrap up of our spring Emergent Reader Storytime session. We will be decorating hats, sharing some great books, and munching on yummy cupcakes. Do not worry, we'll be back Tuesday, June 22 for more books, crafts, and fun. Thanks to all the book loving preschoolers and parents that make storytime exciting and fun!

Can't wait to party!

Carol

The number of the day is...

2010-04-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

That's because we have only three Emergent Reader StoryTimes left before we go on break! Head over to the McMinnville Public Library on Tuesday May 4th, 11th, and 18th at 10:00 a.m. in the Carnegie Room to hear stories, make a craft, and munch on healthy snacks.

The only requirement is a love of books and fun!

Carol

Blooming Readers

2010-04-15T15:58:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about the Tuesday, April 20th Emergent Reader StoryTime! Besides having a slew of great books to share with everyone, the kids are going to get their hands dirty planting peas and/or sunflower seeds. Last storytime was a lot of fun, using some simple materials (contact paper, construction paper, and tissue paper) the kids made colorful suncatchers. We read the hilarious books Wild Boars Cook by Meg Rosoff and Mouse Was Mad by Linda Urban. And we munched on yummy grapes and crackers.

If you haven't been to the Emergent Reader Storytime on Tuesdays there's still plenty of chances to come check out what all the commotion is about on Tuesday mornings. Spring storytime session runs through May 18th.

I saw lots of new faces again at storytime. Thanks to all the parents and preschoolers for joining the fun! See everyone on tuesday!

Carol

April showers bring...picture books!

2010-04-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

At today's storytime kids made spring themed bracelets with pipe cleaners, beads, and bug foamies. We read the books Acorns Everywhere by Kevin Sherry and Milo Armadillo by Jan Fearnley. The kids snacked on oranges, cheese crackers, and apple slices, yummy!

I noticed several new readers at storytime today, thanks for joining our fun, creative, and book filled storytime!

Keep reading!

Carol

Birds!

2010-03-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars- The Emergent Reader Storytime spring schedule starts March 30th. Join us every Tuesday at 10 a.m. for books, crafts, and snacks. We will be kicking off storytime with the wonderful subject of birds. Bring your ears, fingers, and bellies as we make a bird feeder and read several books about birds.

The Emergent Reader Storytime is for preschoolers ages 4-6. And for all the parents out there, storytime is a great way to meet other book loving, crafty parents.

Join me every Tuesday, March 30th through May 18th.

Can't wait to see you!

Carol

Marching right along

2010-02-25T09:47:00.001-08:00

This coming up story time Tuesday, March 2nd the kids will be making collages and I have lots of books to share and read. Last week the kids worked with large sheets of white paper and colorful pastels. A new twist on storytime, parents read books to their child in small circles. I had so many books to share so I asked parents to read and everything just worked out great.

There are two more emergent reader story times left until spring break. Storytime will resume Tuesday, March 30th. I look forward to seeing new faces!

Carol

happy happy valentine's day

2010-02-04T11:08:00.000-08:00

Start stretching your fingers everyone because Tuesday, February 9th the Emergent Reader Storytime will have three different crafts. Preschoolers can make cards, necklaces, and banners all centered around Valentine's day. Whew!

I have the new Jan Thomas book Here Comes The Big, Mean, Dust Bunny! I can't wait to read this book with the kids. Plus, I have other great books to share.

I look forward to seeing you, it's going to be fun!

Carol

Snip, Snap Alligators

2010-01-23T09:01:00.000-08:00

Oh, my we had a wonderful time at Busy Hands and Feet Story Time this week. All about alligators and crocodiles. Several great books and rhymes are available on this favorite story time subject. The books I read were:

Mama Don't Allow by Thatcher Hurd is fun and the kids can sing the song afterwards.

A Frog in the Bog is great for early literacy skills such as rhyming and sequencing.

One of my all time favorite rhymes is The Lady with the Alligator Purse. Enjoy this rhyming verse when ever you need a little nonsense.

Miss Lucy had a baby

She named him Tiny Tim

She put him in the bath tub

To see if he could swim
He drank up all the water

He ate up all the soap

He tried to eat the bathtub

But it wouldn't go down his throat
Miss Lucy called the Doctor

Miss Lucy called the Nurse

Miss Lucy called the LadyWith the Alligator Purse
“Mumps!” said the Doctor

“Measles!” said the Nurse

“Nothing!” said the LadyWith the Alligator Purse
Penicillin said the Doctor
Castor Oil said the Nurse
Pizza said the LadyWith the Alligator Purse.
Out went the Doctor

Out went the Nurse

Out went the LadyWith the Alligator Purse.

Hope to see you at our next Busy Hands and Feet Story Time on February 4th at 10:30. Even though the weather feels like Spring the theme will be Winter ---Br-r-r-r-r-r-r-r-r. Diana

Emergent Reader Story Time

2010-01-17T15:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Blog Readers,

Story times have presumed, last week the Emergent Reader Storytime took a look at the fascinating world of polar bears.

Using white paint the preschoolers colored polar bears on black construction paper and we read some amazing facts about polar bears.

If you have a child between the ages four and six that loves books and making crafts then please join us every tuesday at ten (January 12th - March 9th) in the carnegie room. I look forward to meeting you!

Carol

Storytime Resume

2010-01-11T14:31:00.001-08:00

It has been a while but StoryTimes resume this week. We are happy to be once again meeting with kids and families, sharing stories, songs and rhymes.

Emergent Readers Storytime

1/2 hour of fun for 4 & 5 year olds that
includes lively stories, silly songs, finger plays, crafts and lots of smiles!
10:00 Tuesdays, Jan. 12 - March 9

Infant-Toddler Time

30 minute sessions with stories, songs, finger plays, storyboards & LOTS OF FUN! The emphasis is on smaller children (infants & toddlers) but older siblings are welcome to tag along.
10 and 10:45 Wednesdays, Jan. 13-March 10

Busy Hands and Feet

Children 6 and younger will enjoy a super high energy half hour of stories, music, movement and sign language.
10:30 Thursdays, Jan. 21, Feb. 4 & 18, March 4 & 18

Storytimes in Spanish

A family time for stories, crafts, singing and
more - all in Spanish! 1/2 hour program.
3:30 Fridays, Jan. 15—March 5 and March 11

I hope will join our wonderful storytellers for a fun time! All programs are free.

Diana

Favorite Picture Books of 2009

2009-12-29T16:05:00.000-08:00

Well as the year 2009 winds down I thought I would give you a short list of some of my favorite kid's picture books.

Those Darn Squirrels by Adam Rubin and illustrated by Daniel Salmieri

Old Man Fookwire loves birds but his feeling about squirrels istotally the opposite. With fun illustrations and a message about acceptance, this book is a real treat.

Wombat Walkabout by Carol Diggory Shields and illustrated by Sophie Blackall

I don't know about you but there is nothing more adorable than round furry wombats in hats! This counting book explores the different animals of Australia as the wombats go on a journey.

Monkey and Me by Emily Gravett
I told this story for a Busy Hands and Feet program on monkeys. The simple and lovely story of a child and her stuffed animal is one of my new classics for story time.

Chicken Little by Rebecca Emberley

The illustrations are bold and bright and the chicken eyes alone are great. The story is a great read aloud version of an old favorite.

Birds by Kevin Henkes and illustrated by Laura Dronzek
A little girl is happy to discover that she and the birds she sees from her window have something in common. The simple shapes and colors of the illustrations are lovely.

Well, there you have a smattering of my favorites of 2009. I hope your New Year is happy. Diana

Holidays

2009-12-15T10:09:00.001-08:00

Well I looked for new CDs in the Children's Room and noted we have very few. When this happens I go straight to Amazon to order. January should bring new CDs as well as books and DVDs.
In the meantime I have decided to have a Holiday Storytime for the kids and families. I will bring books recognizing all the wonderful holidays celebrated throughout the world. Some of the books I will have are:

Santa Duck by David Milgrim

The Shortest Day by Wendy Pfeffer

The traditional Gingerbread Man story

Kwanzaa by A.P. Porter

And The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkes by Linda Glaser

And we will sing Jingle Bells accompanied by our own jingle bells.
The storytime is on Wednesday, December 23rd at 10 am. I hope to see you there!

New DVDs for kids

2009-11-25T12:35:00.001-08:00

Going off the usual track of books for storytime, I thought I would mention a number of new DVD's that have been purchased for the kids collection.

All of these titles have just been cataloged and are ready for check out. Check our website:
http://www.maclibrary.org/

The American Girl Movie Collection

Magic School Bus: Creepy, Crawly Fun!

Elmo's World: All About Faces

Check these DVDs out from the upstairs part of the Library.
Next week I will post about new Children's music CDs.
Have a great weekend.

Diana

Movin' and Groovin' with Monkeys

2009-11-13T08:54:00.000-08:00

Monkeys, Monkeys, Monkeys everywhere. Our last Busy Hands and Feet Story Time focused on what else, MONKEYS!
I read several fun stories and did several songs. My favorite title is a new one by Emily Gravett called Monkey and Me. Such a simple story of a young girl and her stuffed monkey who went to see........

Also I read 10 Little Sock Monkeys by William B. Winburn and Mo's Stinky Sweater by David Bedford.

The songs the kids enjoyed were 3 Little Monkeys Swinging in the Tree. This is a song I use to teach kids simple sign language while having a great time. The other song was The Itsy Bitsy Monkey that follows the tune of Itsy Bitsy Spider. I found this song on the website, The Best Kids Book Site Ever.

This was the last of the Busy Hands and Feet Storytimes until January. I will continue to add to the blog focusing on fun preschool books I think especially great. Have a great holiday!

Diana

Winding down

2009-11-12T09:21:00.001-08:00

Well, it's that time again when the Emergent Reader Storytime gets ready to take a break. Join in the fun Tuesday, November 17th when our theme will be Thanksgiving. On Tuesday, November 24th there will be a special storytime conducted by high school students.

Below are pictures from our "house" storytime - we have some incredible artists in our group.
The Emergent Reader Storytime will be back Tuesday, January 12th. Same place and time. Thanks to all the wonderful preschoolers and their parents for making storytime fun, creative, and inspiring.

Carol

monsterville

2009-10-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the kids that attended the Emergent Reader Halloween Storytime, your costumes were fantastic! I have never seen such beautiful princesses' before. And how about that G.I. Joe, very cool indeed.

Below are some pictures of the monster necklaces the kids made. We munched on Halloween decorated cupcakes and cookies (back to veggies and fruit next week, i promise), and we read Halloween Sky Ride by Elizabeth Spurr and Mouse's First Halloween by Lauren Thompson.

The Emergent Reader Storytime goes through November 17th and I still have lots of fun stuff planned for the kids, so please stop by.

Carol

Where the Wild Things Are

2009-10-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

With the new movie out and interest peaking in the classic picture book by Maurice Sendak I decided to focus on wolves at our next Busy Hands and Feet Story Time. I love the story of Max as he travels for a year on his small sail boat to the Land of Wild Things.

I will also be reading Chicken Little by Rebecca and Ed Emberley. This is new and has exciting, colorful illustrations. Wolf's Coming by Joe Kukla is a story about a surprise for wolf. The funny book, Let's Play in the Forest by Claudia Rueda illustrates what the forest animals do when the wolf is not around. And another classic is The Wolf's Chicken Stew by Keiko Kaska where there is one smart chicken.

We will be donning our "wolf" costumes and howling. Stop on by for lots of fun!

Diana

Meeooww

2009-10-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

With Halloween just around the corner what better time than to celebrate all things cat. Come join us Tuesday, October 20th for the Emergent Reader Storytime as we read picture books about cats and decorate cat masks.

Last Tuesday was recycle day. I put all my left over craft project supplies on the table and let the kids go crazy making whatever they could glue, tape, and/or color. We read the funny book Spoon by Amy Rosenthal and the kids snacked on banana slices and granola bars. I think the kids had a great time.

I look forward to seeing you at storytime!

Carol

?????

2009-10-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well it turns out burlap is great material for making collages. I cut lots of fabric squares, put buttons in bowls, and grabbed some left over felt scraps. The kids really enjoyed this project. Since beginning the fall storytime schedule, the kids have made sewing cards, foam watches, paper mermaid dolls, and now burlap collages. I am still trying to decide what craft I'm going to use for next week, so please check back.

The Emergent Reader Storytime fall schedule is September 15th through November 17th. Tuesdays at 10 a.m. in the carnegie room. Ages 4-6. Please stop by!

Carol

Cooollage...

2009-10-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

I got the idea for this week's preschool story time from an old craft book for kids that I had transferred to the McMinnville Library. Using burlap, buttons, felt, and anything else I can find, the kids are going to flex their creative muscles this Tuesday, October 6th as they glue, paste, and tape together everything to make a burlap collage.

Last week the kids made paper mermaid dolls. I had never seen an all red glitter mermaid before, but that's just one of the creative ways the children decorated their mermaids. We read a couple of picture books about mermaids and we snacked on bananas and graham crackers. I tell parents to please put their children in clothes that can get dirty because story time crafts can be a little messy sometimes.

If you have a preschooler that loves books and likes to make things then please stop by. The emergent reader storytime is also a great place to meet other parents. See you soon I hope!

Carol

Mermaids

2009-09-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks for checking out the children's room blog. The Emergent Reader story time is for preschoolers ages 4-6. We kicked off our fall schedule on September 15th with a school theme. The kids worked on animal sewing cards, snacked on orange slices and crackers, and listened to several books about school, including Always In Trouble by Corinne Demas, a funny story about a dog named Toby that gets into trouble and has to go to dog-training school.

The theme for next week's storytime is Mermaids! We will be making paper mermaid dolls and reading books about mermaids, including the ones pictured above. If you love books and making things with your hands, please come join the fun at the McMinnville Public Library.

Carol

Fall Storytimes Resume

2009-09-11T14:40:00.001-07:00

With a bit of crispness in the air and the leaves starting to change colors we will start storytimes next week. We are excited to bring back all the storytimes and have some great themes this year.

Here is the Fall schedule:

September 15 through November 20, 2009
Infant Toddler Story Time - for children 3 and younger. A 1/2 hour of fun with stories, songs and finger plays.Caregiver must remain with child.Wednesdays, 10:00 am & 10:45 am (EXCEPT no story timeNovember 11)
Emergent Reader Story Time - for children 4 - 6 years old. For kids getting ready to dive into the world of reading, story telling and literacy. Caregiver must remain in Library.Tuesdays, 10:00 am
Busy Hands and Feet - for children 6 and younger. For kids who like to move. This is a time for both parents and children 5 and younger to explore musical instruments, movement and books. Music, books, and signing! Thursdays, 10:30 am, September 24, October 1, 15 & 29 and November 12
Cuentos En Español - for the entire family. Stories, games, crafts and fun for the whole family - all in Spanish!Fridays, 2:30 pm (EXCEPT no story time November 13)

We hope that you will join us for one or more of these great storytimes!

Where has the summer gone?

2009-08-25T10:07:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time between posts. We also haven't had any storytimes during the month of August so I haven't been posting. Storytimes resume again in September. Check out the website for the times and dates of our storytimes.

As our busy summer winds down we begin to think of books for Back to School. Here are a few of my favorites:

Hope to see you at storytime! Diana

An abstract question...

2009-07-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

What can you make with tissue paper, crayon pieces, and wax paper? Your very own Kandinsky! Wassily Kandinsky was a Russian painter and is regarded as the founder of abstract art. His paintings are filled with color, motion, and spirit. Tuesday, July 21st the McMinnville Public Library preschool storytime will provide materials to create a wax paper Kandinsky. Bring your imagination and your listening ears, I have a great selection of books to read.

Pastels can be a little messy, but the end result can be bright and energetic pictures. Take a look at the photos from last week's storytime, the theme was Van Gogh's sunflowers.

Whoooooooo's There?

2009-07-13T13:51:00.001-07:00

Busy Hands and Feet Storytime at the McMinnville Public Library will celebrate those wise birds, Owls. I will tell a fun story, Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. I saw this presented by Heather McNeil at the Early Literacy conference in EagleCrest this past May. She is a great storyteller. Also I will use music related to night time and animal sounds. Hope to see some of you there, Thursday, July16 at 10:30.

paper, pastels, and preschoolers

2009-07-12T11:30:00.001-07:00

Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh used oils to create portraits, landscapes, and still lifes. Drawing from Van Gogh's theme of sunflowers we will experiment with paper and pastels to create a masterpiece! Join us at the McMinnville Public Library Tuesday, July 14th for crafts, snacks, and most importantly books. I have a wonderful selection of new books that I will be sharing with everyone.

Last Tuesday, with Alexander Calder as our inspiration, the kids made mobiles. The kids enjoyed seeing pictures of his sculptures and creating their own floating piece of art. It's amazing what you can do with cardboard and construction paper. Great job everyone!

floating art

2009-07-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Do you like color? Do you like working with shapes? If you answered yes to both questions, then Tuesday, July 7th preschool storytime is for you. American sculptor Alexander Calder created magical mobiles, like the one pictured above. Using cardboard, string, and sticks we are going to make our very own mobiles! Stretch your imagination to the limit by creating a floating piece of art.

The kids had a lot of fun last storytime drip painting outside. Thanks to all the parents and kids for being good sports, it was somewhat of a "messy" storytime. We also watched a portion of a documentary about the artist Jackson Pollock, including real footage of him working on a canvas. I read three books by Mo Willems- Don't Let The Pigeon Stay Up Late! The Pigeon Finds A Hot Dog! The Pigeon Wants A Puppy! The kids snacked on orange slices, crackers, and grapes.

I look forward to sharing books and seeing the colorful and creative art the kids will make at the next storytime.

Carol

Action Painting!

2009-06-28T11:45:00.001-07:00

Every Tuesday through July 28th, the preschool storytime at the McMinnville Public Library we will be copying techniques used by famous artists. This Tuesday, June 30th, the kids will be heading outside to do some action painting, a technique made famous by the American artist Jackson Pollock. If you plan to attend, please wear clothes that can be smudged, splattered, and stained.

And what storytime would be complete without some fantastic books! After painting outside, we'll gather in the Carnegie Room where I will read from a selection of books and kids are welcome to enjoy a healthy snack.

For storytime last week the kids used watercolor paints to create portraits of ballerinas, a subject mastered by the french artist Edgar Degas. We also read the hilarious book by Jan Thomas, Rhyming Dust Bunnies.

Put on a t-shirt and baggy jeans and join us at the library for reading, snacks, and creativity!

Carol

A Grand Time

2009-06-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our official summer Reading Program kick-off. It was well attended and everyone seemed to have a good time. I must say the balloon animals created by 2 Shriners were a big hit along with the Juggling School provided by Amazama from Portland.

We are excited to present many great programs this summer and hope that everyone will sign up to participate.

I started the Busy Hands and Feet Storytime today with several books on painting which coincides with the summer reading theme, Be Creative @ Your Library.

Warthogs Paint by Pamela Edwards is great for teaching color mixing. I even mixed paint like the warthogs surprising the young ones with the "magic" of colors.

I'm the Best Artist in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry is a sequel to his fun title, I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean. Both feature an egotistical giant squid who eventually finds he's not the best artist or the biggest thing in the ocean.

Have a great summer of reading! Diana

Summer's Almost Here!

2009-06-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

I have been very late in updating the blog but all of us in the Children's Room are preparing for our Summer Reading Program. We are really excited to be offering a Masquerade Ball for the Summer Listening program kick off for the kids 5 and under plus their families, featuring Eric Herman with his "Cool Tunes for Kids" program. It happens June 3rd at the McMinnville Community Center 600 NE Evans at 11:00 am. This should be great fun. I will be dressing up as a queen and Nola will be a fairy princess. We enjoy seeing all the costumes the kids come up with.

We have a kick off on June 17th at 3:30 pm for the elementary age kids. This program features Zephyr Brown teaching kids how to juggle and the children's staff providing fun crafts to make.

Storytimes are on hold until June 18th but expect to have some real fun with the Summer Reading theme, Be Creative @ Your Library. Check out our webpage about all the performers and activities available this summer.

One of my favorite new books for summer is Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann. And to think I don't even like the color pink.

Hope to see you this summer!

Diana

Spring Has Sprung

2009-04-10T08:58:00.001-07:00

Hopefully spring has finally arrived. The new Early Literacy Newsletter for spring has been completed. Take a look.

I had my first Busy Hands and Feet story time of the spring session yesterday and what fun we had. The theme was Yummy, Yummy Food. I played song by Jim Gill called "Spaghetti Legs" from the CD, Jim Gill Sings the Sneezing Song and Other Contagious Tunes. I enjoy his work and use several other of his CDs in my story time. Try them out sometime.

The books I used were:

Lunch by Denise Fleming

Don’t Forget the Bacon by Pat Hutchins

Next Busy Hands and Feet on April 23rd will focus on the seashore. This is part of our Mac Reads program. Hope to see some of you there.

Diana

MacReads

2009-03-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

During the past few months the community of McMinnville has been reading the book, "The Highest Tide" by Jim Lynch. This is a community reads program supported by the McMinnville Public Library, Linfield College English Department, Friends of the Nicholson Library, Friends of the McMinnville Public Library and Third Street Books. I finished the book not long ago and found it a fun and interesting read. A coming of age story with great tidbits about marine life near in the southern part of the Puget Sound. Since this is an adult fiction title, we in the Children's Room will be reading in stories that follow the marine life theme. Each of us will be using the title, "Looking for Crabs" by Bruce Whatley. The story follows a family as they hunt for crabs on the beach. The illustrations of the hiding crabs are delicious.

We also will be having craft related times after story time.
Just thinking about the warm beach makes me long for summer.

One of my new favorites for story time also has the marine life them. "I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean" by Kevin Sherry is about an egotistical giant squid who meets his match.

Diana

Animal Sounds

2009-03-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

The next Busy Hands and Feet Story Time will feature books on animal sounds. The kids love to create the sounds of the various animals in the stories.

Our first title is Clip-Clop by Nicola Smee. With simple rhythmic text and fun illustrations Smee captures the joy of the animals.

Pop-up books are a real hit in story time. Keith Faulkner has a whole series of books that are wonderful. His title The Giraffe Who Cock-A-Doodle-Doo'd features strange sounds coming from the jungle. That morning all the animals have the wrong voice. A very silly story.

For the music portion of the story time I will be featuring Old McDonald.

Diana

The Letter B

2009-03-06T13:21:00.000-08:00

An ongoing part of our children's services at the McMinnville Public Library is providing storytimes for local HeadStart classes. These are some of my favorite storytimes. This month I am concentrating on the letter B.

Here are some of the books I will be using:

I work with the kids on the early literacy skill of letter knowledge. It is the knowledge that each letter has a specific sound and shape. I have the children tell me something in the storytime room that begins with the letter B. I enunciate the b sound to help them identify more items or concepts that begin with the B sound.

The book, Not a Box by Antoinette Portis is a great imagination stretcher. I brought in a cardboard box and after I finished the book the children imagined what else a box might be. Tons of fun.

Diana

Vrooom, Vrooooom

2009-02-15T15:03:00.000-08:00

My upcoming Busy Hands and Feet Storytime will feature books about things that go. You know all those, monster trucks, roadwork machines and cars.

Drive by Nathan Clement is a new title. The vibrant graphics have an
airbrush look to them. It is about a young boy who tells the story of what his dad does for a living. It describes what a trucker's life is all about.

Another title I selected is Toot Toot Beep Beep by Emma Garcia.
There are funny, noisy vehicles going every which way. The collaged
images are reminiscent of Eric Carle's work. This is a great story for little
one's in love with all things that move.

From the creators of I Stink, Kate and Jim McMullan do it again, with the
title, I'm Dirty. A backhoe loader makes lots of noise but is great at cleaning up a mess. And he loves his job.

Diana

A is for Alligator

2009-02-04T10:21:00.000-08:00

My upcoming storytime will feature books about alligators and crocodiles. These books are a favorite with the kids.

Mama Don't Allow by Thatcher Hurd is a fun romp through the swamp with Miles on the saxaphone. A boat load of yellow-eyed alligators want him to play for the Alligator Ball. And play it loud! The kids love to chime in with the Swamp Band singing "Mama Don't Allow No Music Playin' 'Round Here!".

What a great book. A Girl and Her Gator by Sean Bryan is a delightful follow up to A Boy and His Bunny. This book joyfully shows kids that being different can be all right and even fun.

This title is one I use throughout the year especially when I am demonstrating good books to use for Early Literacy workshops. It has great rhymes, patterns and vocabulary. Try A Frog in the Bog by Karma Wilson.

Along with these stories I will be doing a fun magnet board story called The Lady with the Alligator Purse. I use printed clip art to represent the characters and objects in the story and attach a magnet on the back.

Here it is:

Miss Lucy had a baby,

his name was tiny Tim.

She put him in the bathtub

to see if he could swim.

He drank up all the water

and he ate up all the soap.

He tried to eat the bathtub

but it wouldn't go down his throat.

Miss Lucy called the doctor,

Miss Lucy called the nurse,

Miss Lucy called the Lady with the alligator purse.

Mumps said the doctor,

Measles said the nurse,

Hiccups said the lady with the alligator purse.

Out went the doctor,

Out went the nurse,

Out went the lady with the alligator purse.

Diana

Color Time Fun

2009-01-22T10:34:00.000-08:00

I just had a great storytime with the local Head Start class. I'd like to recommend some titles and a fun activity to do with kids 3 to 5 years old.

First I read Cat's Colors by Jane Cabrera. A sweet story with bright, interesting illustrations. The kids loved to guess which color was Cat's favorite.

White Rabbit's Color Book by Alan Baker is a good introduction to primary colors and the mixing of secondary colors. The activity I did with this book was a color mixing experiment. The children had to guess what colors mixed together make a different color. I used food color of the three primary colors and mixed them in front of the children. It was like a magic trick. Very fun.

The last story incorporated colors and counting. Dog's Colorful Day: A Messy Story About Colors and Counting by Emma Dodd had the kids participating and laughing. Dog seems to be underfoot when colorful is spilt, or splashed or patted on him. He ends up with ten color spots on his white coat to count before book's end and Dog's bath.

Diana

Early Literacy

2009-01-08T15:51:00.000-08:00

I just finished my first Early Literacy Newsletter. The quarterly newsletter gives tips on books and activities related to Early Literacy and the 6 Early Literacy skills. Check it out. It is in a pdf and you can print it yourself or I have printed several copies available at the library. This project was funded by Oregon State Library "Ready to Read" grant which provides funding for early literacy and Summer Reading programs for Oregon libraries.
I am excited to say that Story times will begin again next week. It seems so long ago that we had the pleasure of presenting fun stories, songs and fingerplays. I am thinking that I will start providing short puppet shows too.
Here is the schedule for the upcoming winter Story Times at the McMinnville Public Library.

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

The snow has melted and the new year begins. One of the story times I do is called Busy Hands and Feet, held every other Thursday from 10:30-11 a.m. This is especially fun for starting the year off right as the focus of the session is on music, stories and sign language.

To start off the first session, I will be reading books about music from the Preschool collection.

Punk Farm on Tour by Jarrett Krosoczka is a fabulous romp with those rockin' farm animals as they travel the U.S.A. singing their very special music.

Bats on Parade is a picture book by Kathi Appelt. The bats form a marching band and throughout the text highlights numbers and even mathematics.

The final story for this story time is Olivia Forms a Band by Ian Falconer. The irrepressible Olivia the pig strutting her stuff as one man band. Very funny.

Usually I do a few songs and one of my new favorites is Eric Herman's, Bounce Flap and Twist. This is sure to get those toes a tapping.

Drop in to Busy Hands and Feet with your little ones starting January 15th at the McMinnville Public Library.

Diana

It's Still Snowing

2008-12-24T10:01:00.000-08:00

Unseasonably snowy weather keeps us homebound and perhaps cabin fever has set in. Those little ones are probably clamoring for something to do. Since Christmas is still a day away you will want to keep those presents wrapped a bit longer. In the meantime here are a few fun websites and books to peruse.

Enchanted Learning website is chock full of activities and it is very well orgainized.

Preschool Education has a good selection of activities for those pre-kindergarterners.

Pigeon would love nothing better than to have a puppy. But in "The Pigeon Wants a Puppy" by Mo Willems, Pigeon gets more than he bargained for.

One my new favorites is "Monkey and Me" by Emily Gravett. A little girl and her toy monkey really know how to have fun.

Brrrrr It's Snowing

2008-12-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a good time to write about some great storytime books about snow.

Snowmen At Night by Caralyn Buehner has always been a favorite of mine. Haven't you always wondered what those frozen white figures on your front lawn do at night? Well this is the book that will explain it all.

Another book for preschoolers about fun in the snow is Dinos in the Snow by Karma Wilson. A light hearted romp sure to entertain those little ones who love the snow.

Five Little Snowmen is a fingerplay sure to please. Remember half the fun is to do all the actions. If you have a number of kids have them line up in a row just like the snowmen and act out all the parts.

Five Little Snowmen standing in a row,

They each have a hat,(hands on head)

and a big red bow(hands on neck)

When the sun shines(circle arms around head)

Where will they go?(shrug shoulders)

They melt, melt, melt, melt, melt...(sink down to floor)

I am able to find great action rhymes and fingerplays at "The Best Kids Book Site Ever" website.

http://www.thebestkidsbooksite.com/

Diana