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Sensory Storytime: Get Creative and They Will Come

Explore the world of sensory storytime that is inclusive for all children, including those with special needs. Discover strategies to create a welcoming environment, engage attendees, and ensure safety. Learn how to measure effectiveness, advertise, and handle challenges like crafts and music. Get inspired with recommended reading and make a meaningful connection with every child.

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Sensory Storytime: Get Creative and They Will Come

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  1. Sensory Storytime: Get Creative and They Will Come Nancy Peate Youth Librarian, Multnomah Co. Library

  2. 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

  3. 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.”

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

  9. Be Careful What You Wish For • Too many new families at one time • Established patrons become attached

  10. 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

  11. 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?

  12. 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

  13. Recommended Reading

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