Local Library
This past weekend, I did something I haven’t done in far too long: I took a trip to the local library. As I browsed the selection, it made me realize that the local library is a resource that is underused by many parents. Even though your preschooler is not able to read on his or her own yet, a love of the library is a wonderful thing to develop at this young age. Familiarity with libraries is a great school skill to have. Regular visits will also promote appreciation for books and reading as well as encourage responsibility. Here are some suggestions and strategies to employ:
1. If your library allows, get a library card in your child’s name. Help your child understand that the card is his/hers and that he/she will be able to decide what gets checked out.
2. Establish an area in your home dedicated to library materials. Unless an item is in use, it needs to live here. On every trip to the library and back, carry out the same routine of picking up return items from this space and placing newly checked out ones here.
3. Determine for your child a set number of items that he/she is able to have out at one time. Work with your child to understand that however many items he/she returns is how many he/she can then take out.
4. Children’s library rooms usually have special sections for their youngest patrons. Point out the age-specific shelves to your child. You may decide that other materials are also appropriate choices, but set the physical boundaries so your child will know from which areas he/she may choose.
Remember that libraries contain more than just books. There will also be videos, music CDs, games, puppets, and computer software that your family will be able to take home and use. In my experience, children’s librarians really love what they do. If you ask, they’ll be happy to point out all the different services of the library and how best to use them. For example, if your child is especially interested in a particular topic at the moment, such as dinosaurs, they may be able to pull books in advance of your visit. Then you and your child will be able to go right to a stack of materials on a table upon your arrival.
Not to mention - you might find some good summertime reading for yourself!
