Storytime Success: Crafting Engaging Sessions from Start to Finish

To register for this webinar please follow this link: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/6517446435137/WN_i1acGEHfRV-NwI21mxd3Ow. Sessions are free and available only to members of the Michigan library community. Registrants will receive instructions and a link to attend the session directly from PCI after they register.

Learn to craft the winning formula for captivating storytimes! Explore the essentials of book selection, rhymes, music, movement, visual aids, and smooth transitions. This session will delve into best practices for tailoring storytime content to different age groups—babies, toddlers, and preschoolers—using developmentally appropriate materials.

Discover innovative ways to incorporate creative activities, engaging props, and go-to resources to keep your storytimes fresh. Plus, learn strategies for managing diverse crowd dynamics and adjusting on the fly to ensure an engaging and interactive experience for all. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned storytellers looking to refresh their approach.

What attendees will learn:

• Best practices for selecting books for read-alouds for storytime
• How to choose rhymes, movement songs, and activities that are engaging and age-appropriate for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
• Tips for managing crowd dynamics and adapting storytime to the needs of different audiences
• Techniques for creating smooth transitions that keep young participants engaged from start to finish

Instructor: Katie Clausen is the Early Literacy Services Manager at Gail Borden Public Library and a current PhD candidate in Information Studies at Dominican University. She holds an MLIS from Dominican University and an M.A. in Children’s Literature from Simmons College. Katie has shared her expertise at numerous conferences, and her articles have been featured in the Children & Libraries: The Journal of ALSC and Marvels and Tales. Her specialties include early literacy, children’s literature evaluation, and best storytime practices.

PCI Webinars are recorded and available to members of the Michigan library community in the Library of Michigan's Niche Staff Skills Academy about a week after they air. New webinars will be in the New category for several weeks. You do not need to register for a webinar in order to view it later in the Staff Skills Academy.

This project is made possible by grant funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) administered by the State of Michigan through the Library of Michigan.