This was an impromptu activity, I didn’t plan it at all. I was finishing up a post for Parentella about school anxiety when my son decided that he had enough of Legos, and since it was pouring outside his beloved backyard was off limits too. I suggested we play library. By the time he was all set up my final proof read was done and we were playing.
- Gather your props. You will need LOTS of books, an old computer to be the check out , a cloth bag and” library” card . You could make a card as a craft before hand if you want or just use a old Starbucks card.
- Set up your library. Ours was set up on our family room couches. My son sorted the books by ones for big kids and ones for little kids. I couldn’t tell the difference but the fact that he initiated the sorting and classification was good enough for me. We popped my old laptop on the coffee table for check out.
- Next ask your librarian to help with book suggestions. This was eye opening for me he suggested some great books by title, this is a great way to get a sense of which books your child remembers and loves.
- Time to check out books. I had to pay a fine too. Isn’t it fun when you realize your kids is listening all.the.time.
- Next it’s story time!
Pretend play isn’t just fun, it’s an important component to early childhood education. It allows kids to practice social situations, learn by doing and develop storytelling skills as well. So grab some books and turn your living room into a library .
Sam says
I’m still trying to get Boo to help me check out at a REAL library, but I’ll remember this once he’s a little more socially aware. He does point to his shelves at home and asks for his favourites by name, though, which is always amazing to me.
Love the sorting into Big and Little kid books, where you couldn’t tell the difference. 🙂
.-= Sam´s last blog ..Not as unique as we thought =-.
Mrs. Mordecai says
This is a great idea! My son has done this on his own several times but I bet he would be thrilled if I suggested it. He also likes to put books in the “book mover” (the slot for returns).
.-= Mrs. Mordecai´s last blog ..Using it up =-.
Pawan says
Anytime kids are thinking about books it’s a great idea!
Ashley says
I LOVE this idea! I’m doing a letter of the week curriculum with my almost 2 1/2 year old and this will be a really fun activity to try when we get to our letter L right before Christmas time. Thank you for such a fun idea!
Tara @ Feels like home says
I love this idea, Allie!
.-= Tara @ Feels like home´s last blog ..Feels Like Home Month in Review – August 2010 =-.