A collection of easy-to-learn activities helps children improve memory, build motor skills, enhance hand-eye coordination, and learn new words.

Fresh, fun ideas for children's storytime fill this book. The author, a long-time storytime facilitator, has put together 52 weekly themes plus additional plans for holidays, all with detailed instructions for talking about the theme and choosing the books, crafts, songs, poems, games and snacks. Each storytime idea is illustrated with photographs of a suggested craft and snack for easy reference. Libraries, bookstores, preschools and parents alike can use this book to offer themed storytimes that include discussion, literature, art, music, movement and food. Options are provided for each storytime, so the ideas can be used year after year.

Easy-to-Learn Songs With Activities That Target and Teach the Top Word Families

Storytelling and activity songs and rhymes have a long tradition, and at times, they have passed down from generation to generation. Our book has more pictures than words in order to methodically introduce each movement and associate it with a spoken word. We use two kinds of pictures: 1) pictures that tell a story or plot which can be discussed, and 2) pictures showing motions that will be repeated throughout the activity songs and rhymes. They are detailed so it is not necessary to go back each time. In our book, you will find 5 popular activity rhythms with very detailed pictures of each gesture. You and your kids will be able to learn each finger/hand movement step by step, bringing enjoyment to both of you. Contents: - I've got Five Fingers in My Pocket - A Sailor Went to Sea, Sea, Sea - Open, Shut Them, Open, Shut Them - One Little Fish You might ask why you should buy books with fingerplays when there are so many free videos on YouTube. We believe that parents should define the development and entertainment of their children. Video content is entertainment, not a participatory game. It is created by somebody else, not the child, and grabs the attention of kids against their will. This book also provides instruction for the hand movements but gives the child the space for their own sense of creation. Hand gestures are not done for the child, but by the child. Here is a chance for kids to think, learn, and to try for themselves. Also, the book suggests more activities compared with simply repeating from an image on a screen. Kids can see all gestures step to step, try them and feel them. This gives them the chance to see themselves from the outside looking in, modifying when necessary to get it just right. This self-analyzing ability is an extremely important skill for their future lives.

Offers an introduction to fingerplay, discussing the motor, listening, attention, and counting skills required for different age groups.

Offers information on incorporating finger plays into a library's storytime, including guidance on selecting appropriate materials, organizing storytime events, and marketing storytime to patrons.