Programming for Early Childhood

Overview of Early Childhood Programming

Library programming can take many shapes and forms, but it is important that you design programming to fit with the goals of your library, as well as your community’s needs. If available, you can refer to your library’s strategic plan, as that often serves as the long-term road map for where a library is hoping to go. Some common library programs for children aged 0 - 5 include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Baby Storytime
• Music and Movement
• Art
• Toddler Storytime
• Preschool Storytime
• STEM Activities
• Free Play Time
• Family Storytime/Sensory Storytime

In the course Workbook you will find an outline to help you design a program and give you some starting questions to help you brainstorm. Feel free to also do some internet searching - a quick Google search can introduce many great ideas from other libraries that can serve as inspiration for your own planning purposes.

Screen Time Guidance for 0 - 5

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children ages 2-5 to no more than one hour each day and avoiding all screen time for babies from 0 - age 2.

Ideally, parents and caregivers should be encouraged to use media with their young children so they can engage in conversation about what they are watching or doing.  When possible, the library should provide two seats and two sets of headphones for each computer to make this possible.  Not only does this provide a way for adults to guide the experience of the child and simply enjoy the playtime together, but also provides a wonderful opportunity for caregivers with low computer skills to gain confidence, and perhaps, some new skills, in a comfortable environment.