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What services do libraries have for kids of various ages?
Home » Early Learning » Taking Children to the Library » What services do libraries have for kids of various ages?Posted by Your Guide on October 9, 2006 7:33 PM
There are many services available at the library for children, but the types of things depend on how old the kids are (and, of course, the resources available to your local library).
• Preschoolers. Most libraries have programs for preschoolers and even infants. Things like songs, rhymes, fingerplays, parent-child story times, and other fun group events help stimulate a child's mind and begin to help them develop their language and social skills. Once kids are between 3 and 5 years old, there are more group activities for them to be involved in like reading aloud, arts and crafts, puppet shows, storytelling, etc.
• Elementary Students. In elementary school and Jr. High, the library will provide not only a place of fun for children but also a location to help them complete school assignments. There are programs that help children learn to better research and how to use the reference books and library catalog. There are also fun programs for these older kids, like reading incentives. Checking with your local library will help you find out what's available for your kids.
• Teenagers. Teens primarily tend to use the library for recreational reading and school projects. They may choose books for young adults or from the adult section. Or they may choose to check out the CD's and audio books available. In addition, many libraries try to get teens to help with the younger kids' programs - the storytelling, crafts, etc. They may also volunteer at the library regularly or get a part-time job checking in and out the books and re-shelving them.
If you have kids with special needs, the library will have many resources that will still allow you to introduce them to the world of books. Talk to the librarian about the kinds of services available to help your little ones learn and grow!
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