AtoZ Blogging Challenge – Yoga

Program Name: Stretch & Stories

What: We’ve offered a number of yoga storytimes at our library and we have a number of families that really enjoy them. During this program I try to encourage a lot of participation, not just from the kids, but also from the adults whether it’s helping the children in the pose or actually participating themselves. I also like to point out the benefits of yoga for children – it’s a physical activity that is also helpful in regulating emotions and expressing oneself.

Where: Depending on the size of your class you can use a small or large meeting space. I’ve done this program with both size rooms and a smaller room can get a little tight when everyone has a yoga mat or towel, but having too much space encourages kids to run amok!

When: We like to offer yoga storytime during the winter when kids need to move around, but can’t necessarily get outside to play as often. But again, this can be offered at any time – if you’ve got outdoor space, try yoga outside on a sunny day!

Who: This program is usually geared toward preschool age kids – who really do an amazing job, but I’ve adapted it for kids through 8th grade and it is often well received.

How: I’ve written a number of posts about our yoga storytime including a post on how to get started and a number of program plans that you are welcome to use, adapt, borrow and steal!

Alternatives:

• We’ve also paired with our local Community Center to offer a yoga class for adults as well as a chair yoga class for seniors.
• We love trying new programs for our early literacy age kids – Parachute storytime, STEM storytime, Art Exploration and Dance Parties. Our families love our traditional storytimes, but also enjoy our other programs as well!

During the month of April, I’ll be participating in the 2018 Blogging from A to Z Challenge. For this year’s theme, I’ll be offering you a library program plan with everything you to need to re-create it at your own library. Most of these programs we’ve offered in the past, others are programs I’d like to try in the future. I’m always looking for new inspiration and I thought you might be too!