This program was just too cute not to share with CMLE members! As you know, I am a huge fan of library outreach work; and that includes reaching into all areas of the communities we serve. Partnerships make that outreach even stronger. And this program is not only adorable, but a great example of partnerships outside the library!
Dr. James Thomas was invited by the Amon Cartner Museum (Ft. Worth, Texas) to do his program on language play for infants in their gallery. It was such a hit last year, they scheduled four events this year!
“Infancy is the time to begin with an awareness of language and books. During this program you will learn songs, how to share books, sign language, and ways to exercise with your little one to encourage language development. Each caregiver will receive a free CD of all songs and activities shared.” (more information on the program is after the break)
Do you have an idea for reaching out to a segment of your population? Would making some connections, and building up partnerships, help your library provide better service – or something really fun? Great!!
Let’s discuss your plans, and see what we can do to help out! CMLE Headquarters is here to support you and the work you do for your patrons; so let’s do some great things!
From Dr. James L. Thomas:
Just had to share a recent experience that demonstrates I believe the relevance of our ongoing efforts to reach parents of little ones any time and any place promoting early literacy skills.
Last year I was invited to give my “Language Play for Infants” program at the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth, TX. Because space was limited in the galleries, the group could only accommodate 10 families. I guess you could say that the program was a success: I’ve been invited back this year with four more repeats of what they call (see below)–
January 21, 2017
9:30am–10:15am
Itty-Bitty Art: Early Literacy
Infant Program
We apologize for the inconvenience, but this program is currently full. Email visitors@cartermusuem.org to be placed on the wait list.
Bring your baby (up to 11 months) to the Amon Carter for an art-filled experience! Engage with Dr. James Thomas, an early literacy consultant, who will demonstrate age-appropriate activities inspired by the museum’s collection.
Infancy is the time to begin with an awareness of language and books. During this program you will learn songs, how to share books, sign language, and ways to exercise with your little one to encourage language development. Each caregiver will receive a free CD of all songs and activities shared.
Please bring a blanket to use during this program.
Reservations are required. Registration for this program opens December 1. Call 817.989.5030 or email visitors@cartermuseum.org to register.
If you wish to view a few photos and at the end a video clip of “Shoo Fly,” this is the address in DropBox to copy and paste:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/smfepi5rb4ef84i/AAB-7eoIJqxTbXMgMsMJf29Na?dl=0
Should anyone want to know the program content, I have pasted it below; music and words to the songs may be found in the wiki site listed at the end of the program:
Session Content for Infants
Rhyme, Songs, Books, Body Movement, and Signing
OPENING
“Welcome Today Little Star Shine”
“The More We Get Together”
“Up, Up, Up”
“Humpty Dumpty”
BOOK TO SHARE
“Shoofly”
“Let’s go to the market, let’s go to the store”
“A Smooth Road”
SIGNING SONGS
“more milk”
“Bingo”
“Riding in the buggy, baby mine, baby mine”
“Baby Put Your Shirt On”
YOGA
“Brown Bear, Brown Bear” “When Dogs Get Up…” “I’ll Drive a Dump Truck”
“Peek-a-boo”
“Rain Is Falling Down”
“Ho, Ho, Watanay”
ENDING
“Up Down, Turn Around”
email for Dr. James L. Thomas: earlyliteracyworkshops@live.com
wiki site for infants: itsybitsybabies.pbworks.com