FAMILIES and parents will be thrilled with Coffs Harbour Libraries’ announcement that StoryTime is on again.

For many parents and carers story time is a welcome change from the routine of the week offering a free session of stories, crafts and songs with other parents and carers with infants and children under six.

StoryTime was paused due to COVID-19 but now families again have the opportunity to introduce their children to the love of books and the library with some building a life long relationship.

The parents and carers benefit greatly as well as the children are entertained by someone else.

The Libraries’ team members of passionate storytellers are ecstatic the wait for face-to-face events is over and the Coffs Harbour, Toormina and Woolgoolga branches can run their weekly sessions until December 18, and resume on January 12.

“It’s a special time of the week when parents can take a break with their little ones to socialise with other families and sing songs, read stories and create something together,” explains Roz Latter, Programs Facilitator and regular Library storyteller.

Like many public libraries faced with the challenge of COVID-19 restrictions earlier this year, the StoryTime team rapidly adapted their events to be delivered online and have been itching to get back to a live audience ever since.

Guided by presenters whose expertise ranges from children’s librarians to teachers, the StoryTime team share skills in engaging young children through storytelling, singing, puppetry and craft.

“We have missed presenting it live as much as the families have missed coming in person,” says Roz.

“Although it was great to offer an alternative online, nothing beats that live interaction and connection with kids for the full experience.”

Behind all the fun activities, children gain important early literacy and social skills, while parents can pick-up extra storytelling tips and new activities to keep their kids engaged at home.

Regular reading and singing aloud during childhood, has been shown to help kids pick up words at an early age and lay the foundation for life-long learning and a love of reading.

Session times are: Woolgoolga Library on Tuesdays from 11-11.45am, Coffs Harbour Library on Wednesdays from 11-11.45am, Toormina Library on Thursdays from 11-11.45am and Saturdays 10-10.45am and Plus Baby Rhyme Time at Coffs Harbour & Toormina on once a month.

To book your free place register via Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/coffs-harbour-libraries-4254205431.

 

By Sandra MOON