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Sensory Storytime: Get Creative and They Will Come. Nancy Peate Youth Librarian, Multnomah Co. Library. What’s in a Name?. “Sensory” is recognized shorthand for events that address sensory integration disorders But many kids don’t fit into any category at all
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Sensory Storytime: Get Creative and They Will Come Nancy Peate Youth Librarian, Multnomah Co. Library
What’s in a Name? • “Sensory” is recognized shorthand for events that address sensory integration disorders • But many kids don’t fit into any category at all • The “Inclusion” versus “Mainstreaming” debate
About “Special Needs” • Many families want to be as mainstream as possible • The wording we use: “This preschool storytime is especially welcoming to families who are looking for a smaller, more interactive storytime.”
Our Sensory Storytimes • Gresham Library, Fridays at 2:00 pm • Woodstock Library, Saturdays at 9:00 am • Consistency seems to be more important than time or day • Core families + New families
Set up for a Typical Sensory Storytime • Boardmaker activities, felt board • Words to fingerplays and songs are posted • A few stuffed animals • Board books to read until Storytime starts • Lower lights / shades if possible
Making a Connection • Room layout is designed to be inviting and low-key • It can be hard to get some children’s attention, so materials are colorful and entertaining • Book choice is important
How do you measure effectiveness? • Number of attendees • Visibility in the community • If your library serves a transitional population, you’ll have fewer consistent attendees, more new families each week
How to Advertise • Online networks • MESD • Pediatricians, counselors • Keep a detailed contact list • Have a sign-in sheet so that you can communicate with families
Be Careful What You Wish For • Too many new families at one time • Established patrons become attached
Keeping Everyone Safe • Active kids can post safety hazards • It’s useful to have a volunteer to monitor the exit(s) • The “two table” method • Cover up outlets, light switches
Recorded Music: To Use or Not To Use • It can be soothing to have instrumental or classical music playing at beginning or during craft • But a CD player and cord are very distracting to some kids • Instruments, shakers?
Crafts Pose Special Challenges • Some kids will eat crayons or glue • Scissors need to be watched, but are lots of fun • Stickers can be frustrating for kids with less dexterity • Examples of some craft projects that work