Schoolage Children Storyhour Behavior: Helpful Hints

Story hours for school age children (kindergarden and grade one; grades two and three) are planned for four week sessions with alternating late afternoon (3:30 p.m.)and early evening (6:30 p.m.) gatherings. Special storytimes for older readers are planned yearly.

Due to limited enrollment, North Smithfield residents are given first priority in registration, but youngsters from other communities may participate if space is available. Please call (767-2780) or fax (767-2782), if your child will not be attending. If you plan to drop out, please notify the Children's Librarian so another child may join.

During storyhour children will listen to stories, do a craft, play games and sing songs, usually centered around a common theme. Because children sit on the floor and frequently use markers, glue and paints, casual (and, in the winter, warm) clothing is suggested.

No story hours are held during school vacations or on other days when school is cancelled.

Parents are reminded that the library is open and operating during storyhour. The children's area has good sound control, but activities should not disturb other patrons.

Parents are responsible for their child's behavior while in the library. Youngsters should respect the furniture and furnishings. Running and rough-housing is prohibited. Puppets and puzzles are to be picked up before leaving.

In order for storyhour to be a pleasant experience for all children, reasonable good behavior is expected. A youngster who is continually disruptive or behaving inappropriately may be asked to leave. We reserve the right to deny registration or withdraw any child from story time for the good of the group.

Children often like to choose books after storyhour to carry the program home. We also have a wide selection of magazines, audio cassettes, read-along book /tape kits and videos. The Children's Librarian is happy to offer suggestions for further reading. Newbery, Caldecott and Rhode Island book award lists are available and holdings not owned by the North Smithfield Public Library ordered for delivery within a few days.