The "Helpful Tips" page has content that is helpful for starting storytime plans, as well as some resources for songs and themes. If you would like to find more info about specific themes and songs, be sure to check out the Themed Storytimes Page as well as the Personal Shelf Page on this website.
I believe that Storytimes are completely dependant on the kids that attend, so these tips are more of a guide rather than a rulebook.
Tip #1: If you think the kids can do more than one picture book, then go for it! This is more of an overview of what works best.
NOTE: I think that it is a great idea if you do choose to do more than one picture book to have the first book be the showstopper.
The closer to the end of the program the more antsy the kids get, especially the babies.
Tip #2: Try to get the kids to be active throughout Storytime. I like to do a bubble machine and a parachute as a kind of "Interlude" to the actual storytime and songs.
It gets the kids active and they expel some energy during these activities that make them more focused for the stories and songs.
Tip #3: Try not to incorporate a craft unless they are 2+ years old. I find it incredibly difficult to find something entertaining for one year olds so I just do not have a craft for them.
Tipe #4: Make sure you entertain the parents too! Entertaining the parents is the second most important thing at a Storytime, while the first is entertaining the kids.
I like to add some humor, jokes, pop culture references, or a song that's older from their childhood that makes them want to come back every week.
Tip #5: Use the same opening and closing song for every storytime. This ensures that by the end of the sessions, the kids and parents will know this song by heart.
Opening: "With Our Friends At Storytime" Song
First round: "We clap and say hello. We clap and say hello. With our friends at Storytime, we clap and say hello."(Clap during round)
Second Round: "We wave and say hello..."(Wave during round)
Third Round: "We roll and say hello..."(Roll arms during round)
Fourth Round: "We stomp and say hello..."(Stomp feet during round)
Song #1: Insert Song
Book #1: Insert Book
Activity Song: With Scarves, Egg Shakers, Bells, etc.
Activity Song #2: Typically with music from a CD or IPod, but also another song works with the same prop.
Fingerplay: Insert Rhyme
Bubble Machine Interlude: "Splish, Splash" song playing over loud speakers from a CD or Ipod, or any other song that works well with a bubble machine.
Can also fit a specific theme if there is one for the Storytime, like "Skin and Bones" song for a "Monsters" theme.
Song #2: Insert Song
Toddler Board Book: Insert Toddler Board Book
Parachute Interlude: I typically have the babies sit on top of the parachute if they want, while the parents grab onto the sides of the parachute.
Then, sing "Ring Around the Rosie" until song finishes. If there is time, babies can also go under the parachute if they would like and have the grownups
bring the parachute up and down gently.
Lap Bounce: Insert Lap Bounce Song
Goodbye: "With Our Friends at Storytime" Goodbye Version
First Round: "We clap and say goodbye. We clap and say goodbye. With our friends at Storytime, we clap and say goodbye." (clap during round)
Second Round: "We wave and say goodbye..."(Wave during round)
Third Round: "We roll and say goodbye..."(Roll arms during round)
Fourth Round: "We stomp and say goodbye..."(Stomp feet during round)