Estamos emocionados de tener una nueva hora de cuentos en la biblioteca

In addition to the Wee Read Storytime that meets each Wednesday at 10 a.m. for ages birth-3 year olds, the Washington Public Library will also now offer Bilingual Storytime on Thursdays at 10 a.m.

The Bilingual Storytime will be in English and Spanish. This story time will be led by me, but we will also have native Spanish speakers leading, as well. Much like the Wee Read story time we will be reading, singing, moving, and using scarves, egg shakers, and parachutes. The main difference is that we will do these in Spanish and English. We will also include traditional Spanish children’s music as well as songs that translate in English and Spanish. You do not need to speak Spanish to attend and it is free and open to all children, ages birth-3 years old, and their parents.

We are excited to be able to add this story time to our weekly schedule. Early exposure to books, reading, music and movement has been proven to strengthen early literacy skills. Story time is a great way to introduce learning to your child in a way that is relaxed and fun. This bilingual exposure will also provide opportunities for learning and growth.

Research has shown that children that are exposed to other languages often have better cognitive and problem solving skills. They can also have a greater sense of empathy because they are able to see themselves in someone else’s shoes. Playing, reading, and singing in a different language can also make a child brave and more able to try new things. This exposure to another language and culture can also give children insight about the world around them.

This is a great new opportunity we are excited to offer. We would be happy to see you at one or even both of our weekly story time programs. Come join us in the fun!