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Library Play Groups

Background: In order to provide library programs for families with young children where there is lack of library staff, play groups can be initiated in which the parents take responsibility for most of the program. The library provides the space, publicity and materials (in some cases).

Purpose of a library play group:

--Provide fun for kids with books, music, crafts and exploration at the library

--Meet new friends for kids AND parents

--Incorporate parents as facilitators to free library staff

Suggested play group format:

--One-half hour of activity

--Ten minutes of song and stories

--Five minutes for cleanup

Duties of each parent:

--Rotate responsibility for programs based on number of sessions and number of participating kids in each family. If you have 2 children taking part, you are responsible for 2 programs in that rotation of programs.

--For your session, plan, organize supplies, set up & lead the activities

--Supervise cleanup after program

--Work with play group coordinator to determine which dates are your responsibility

Duties of play group coordinator (who may be parent or library staff person):

--Provide updated phone list of parents, kids and birthdays

--Make rotation schedule & give one to library

--Make name tags for parents & kids

--Help as needed

Return to the MHLS Youth Department homepage.