My family time is a really mixed all-ages group, with everyone from babies to preschoolers! Our groups aren’t as large as some (we typically get between 60-80 people), but our meeting room isn’t huge, so it does make for a very cozy setting sometimes!
I’ve been doing this story time since the beginning of September, and I’m starting to get to know the families in my area. The families are starting to get to know me, too – it’s so sweet when the little ones start shouting my name as soon as they see me. 🙂
So, here’s what I did in today’s family story time (more or less…) I like to have an outline for my story times, but like I’ve said before, I don’t believe in forcing yourself to follow an outline if it’s just not working. Because I can never be quite sure who will be attending each story time, I have to be flexible enough to change up my plans if they’re just not going to work! If you’re unfamiliar with any of the songs I’ve chosen, I’d recommend checking out www.jbrary.com, an amazing resource for anyone who works (or lives!) with children.
Welcome Song: Hello, Friends!
Book 1: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse / Eric Carle
Hand Rhymes
- I Wake Up My Hands With a Shake, Shake, Shake
- Wiggle Your Fingers
- Roly Poly
- Open Shut them
Book 2: I ‘Aint Gonna Paint No More / Karen Beaumont
Action Songs
- Bend & Stretch
- Zoom Zoom
- Head & Shoulders
- Tick Tock (I’m a Little Cuckoo Clock)
- The Elevator Song
Goodbye Song: Goodbye, Friends!
Lots of movement, lots of action, lots of laughter – an all-around fun story time!