Programs instill confidence in children’s literacy

Reading and literacy are significant to a child’s development, and Naperville Public Library showcases these valuable skills with a variety of programs for children of all skillsets.

Sensory Storytime, which will welcome children with special needs and their families, is a 30-minute program that will feature books, songs and fun. Children of all abilities can attend the programs that will take place from 2 to 2:30 p.m. April 5 and May 3 at 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive.

“We want to meet a need in the community,” Celeste Giles, children's services librarian, said. “It’s a very open and relaxed atmosphere. We try to make it low key and try to adapt it to the children who come. We share books, songs, fingerplays as well as sensory activities related to the books and the theme.”

During past programs, children worked with a placemat printout that included a plate as well as images where a knife and fork should be placed. Children would practice positioning the utensils on each marked spot, so that when they took the placemat home they knew how to set the table. 

The program also features activities like a schedule board of which the program’s agenda is detailed on a board with communication icons or photos. During the program, if it is time for books or fingerplays, the presenter will point to the schedule board.

Blooming Bark for Books
Another educational literacy program is Blooming Bark for Books that will offer children a chance to practice their reading aloud in front of therapy dogs from local organizations and humane societies. For children in 1st through 5th grades, the program will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 26 at Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave., and May 10 at 95th Street Library. 

“Reading with dogs is a relaxing, non-judgmental and fun pastime, especially for emerging readers who may not be very sure of themselves reading out loud,” said Carla Eisley, children's services associate.