Programming

Back to the Birth to 5 page

 

This is an image of a small toddler waving her hands in the air.Why programming for babies?

The benefits of library programs for infants and toddlers are infinite. Children enjoy coming to the library. Getting together as a group improves their social skills. The exposure to books and language can increase comprehension, attention span, and help with early language.

 

Research shows that reading simple stories and playing silly word games are more than play - they provide necessary pre-reading skills. The stories, nursery rhymes, finger plays, and songs shared at infant and toddler programs are perfect examples. Parents and caregivers can repeat them again and again to the child's delight.

Bonding between caregiver and child is another benefit of these programs. Please join us at the library or explore the other Baltimore area programs on this site. You and your child can have fun learning, laughing, and growing together.

Library Programs | Activities to Go


Library Programs

This summer, be sure to take a look at the Preschool Read-to-Me Club, a part of BCPL's annual Summer Reading Program that's geared especially for youngsters!

This is an image of a librarian conducting a baby story time.
Photo by Ruth Schaefer

Check the BCPL Calendar of Events for a complete listing, by branch, of all Baby Boosters and Story Timers programs.

 

Check other library systems in Maryland
for story times near you:


Activities to Go

 

Simple ways to nurture the growth of your child and bond at the same time!
This is an image of a mother and baby playing pat-a-cake.

Play simple hand games like pat-a-cake for language development and body awareness.


This is an image of a baby holding a baby book.

Encourage your child's love of books -- mix them in with other toys.


This is an image of a small child in a train conductor's hat.

Exercise his small muscles by playing with toys like train puzzles, building blocks, etc.


This is an image of a woman and child holding a book.

Allow your toddler to choose books to bring home from the library!


This is an image of two small children playing with a floor puzzle.

Foster teamwork and problem solving using toys like this floor puzzle.


This is an image of two babies and their mothers playing with a beach ball.

Simple objects such as this beach ball provide hours of entertainment and numerous learning opportunities too!

SAY: "Ball"
SHOW: Rolling the ball, dropping the ball, throwing the ball.
EXPLORE: Balls of different sizes and textures.
EXERCISE: Place him on top of the ball and roll him back and forth.

Photographs: R. Schaefer

Editor: cd