The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Library prepares toddlers for school
The Lorain Public Library System Domonkas Branch, 4125 E. Lake Road in Sheffield Lake, entertained toddlers Aug. 20 to give them a good foundation for when they go to school.
“It’s called Toddler Time, for ages 18 months to four years old, and we have one every Monday at 11 a.m.,” said Sharon Sheehan, associate librarian at the Domonkas Branch. “I usually choose a theme for each week and center the event around that.”
Sheehan said the day features a story, craft, game and music.
“I continue that same formula each week with a new theme,” she said. “It’s the perfect format because it allows for the book, then fun things that relate to it in some way.
“You have to change things up to get the young kids excited. So, I make sure not to do any part of the event for too long.”
Sheehan said it’s important for the library to have programs for toddlers.
“It’s good to build that foundation at a young age,”
she said. “Certain things like learning how to sit still in a circle and how to interact with your peers. These lessons get them ready for time in an actual classroom.”
Sheehan said she has been putting programs together like this for awhile.
“I taught kindergarten at St. Vincent De Paul School in Elyria,” she said. “I love being around the
young kids and teaching them new things. It’s fun to be around them.”
Ashley Shelton, of Sheffield Lake, said her boys love listening to stories.
“They have a good time when they’re here,” Shelton said. “There is always a game or something for them to do, and it allows them the chance to interact with kids their own age.”
Carol Wright, a Sheffield Lake resident, was at the Toddler Time with her granddaughter.
“I’ve been bringing her to Toddler Time since she was 18 months old,” Wright said. “This will be her last one with school starting.
“I’m glad the library has this. It has really helped to instill good social skills and promote a love of reading.”