Robot Storytime: Coding for Preschoolers

Coding is the hottest thing in libraries since the electronic card catalog, but how do we bring coding to our littlest patrons?  In a recent blog post, Jenn Carson, Library Director of LP Fisher Public Library, Woodstock, N.B., Canada, discusses her search for STEM programming targeting a preschool-age audience.  She touches on wanting a no-screen option if possible, as well as something durable and suitable for a large group.  Her solution?  Cubetto, a wooden robot produced by Primo Toys.  Operation does not require a device, the wooden base body is very sturdy, and Cubetto comes with storybooks!  Check out Carson's search and results in their entirety HERE.

Dance! Dance! Dance!

Have you ever finished a program and thought I needed that as much as the kids?   That was my feeling after our dance party yesterday.  Dancing for 30 minutes was a great stress relief!

Now I'm thinking I need to add dance parties to the regular schedule and not as a special storytime break activity.  They are easy to plan.  There's lots of fantastic librarian curated playlists to get you started.  And they help promote your music collection!

Playlist 
"Hello Hello" by Miss Nina 1:26
       
"Dance, dance, dance" by The Beach Boys - (lyrics) 2:11

"I Really Love To Dance" by The Laurie Berkner Band 2:28

"Happy" (from Despicable Me 2) [Ballroom Version] by Pharrell   Williams 3:55   

"Jump, Jump" by Joanie Leeds and The Nightlights 1:44

Get out the shakers

"Let's Shake" by Dan Zanes 2:46

"The Freeze" by Greg and Steve 2:13
           
"The Airplane Song" by The Laurie Berkner Band3:16

Get out the scarves
       
"Shake Your Scarves" by Johnette Downing 1:54

"Goodbye, Goodbye" by Joanie Leeds and The Nightlights 2:00