Online Kits Bring Library Storytime Into Your Home

On an average weekday morning at the Plainfield Public Library, the Youth Services Department is often filled with the sounds of giggling, clapping and dancing as young children are engaged in storytime.

“Hundreds of Plainfield children participate in our storytime programs in our building and the community throughout the school year,” said Veronica DeFazio, the head of the library’s Youth Services Department. “Library storytime is more than just reading a story; it includes dancing, singing and exploring. That’s why children love it so much.”

Knowing that parents are struggling with keeping their children busy during the COVID-19 quarantine, Youth Services staff members created Family Storytime Kits so that caregivers can easily recreate the library storytime experience for their children in the safety of their own homes.

The Family Storytime Kits are all available for free on the library’s website. Each themed kit contains a link to a suggested children’s book that can be downloaded from one of the library’s eBook providers using a Plainfield Library card. Families are also welcome to use any book they have at home that fits the theme.

Next, each kit links to an online video that encourages families to do some moving and grooving.

“I don’t know about you, but I could use a fun song to dance around the house to right about now,” said DeFazio.

Following the dance break, there’s an easy craft.

“All of the recommended crafts in our Family Storytime Kits are made with items you can find around the house like paper plates, scissors and crayons,” said DeFazio.

Now it’s time to do some online exploring. Each kit includes a link to a kid-friendly website that has more information about the topic.

Finally, storytime concludes with a list of simple questions that encourage families to engage with each other and discuss the topic further. Devising your own questions is highly encouraged!

Youth Services staff members are planning to create two new Family Storytime Kits each week until the quarantine ends. Follow the library’s Facebook page for reminders.

“We miss seeing all of you at the library and look forward to the day we can enjoy books, music and fun in person with you once again,” said DeFazio.