Survival Guide: Running a Storytime for Toddlers
Survival Guide: Running a Storytime for Toddlers
(AKA: Noise, Chaos, and the Occasional Existential Crisis)
So, you’ve volunteered (or been voluntold) to run a toddler Storytime at the library. Congratulations! You’re about to enter a world where sitting still is a myth, attention spans last approximately three seconds, and you may question your life choices somewhere between The Very Hungry Caterpillar and the Hokey Pokey. Fear not—this guide will help you survive, and possibly even thrive.
Step 1: Accept the Chaos
Toddler Storytime is not a peaceful, serene gathering. It’s a whirlwind of tiny humans with sticky hands, loud voices, and an uncanny ability to sense fear. Some will sit quietly; others will wander off mid-story to investigate a suspiciously fascinating speck of dust. This is normal. Roll with it.
Step 2: The Book Selection Struggle
Pick short books. Short and interactive. Anything longer than 10 pages and you risk losing half your audience to a rogue game of tag. Books with animal noises, lift-the-flap elements, or ridiculous sound effects are your best friends. Pro tip: If you can read it dramatically while also fending off a runaway toddler, it’s a winner.
Step 3: The Opening Song (aka Toddler Hypnosis)
Start strong with a catchy welcome song. This does two things: grabs their attention and lets parents know that, yes, the chaos is now structured. Bonus points if the song has hand movements—because tiny hands waving in the air is as close as we’ll get to toddler choreography.
Step 4: Storytime or Wrestling Match?
You’ll be mid-sentence when one child decides to run off into the distance, another attempts to eat a book, and a third wanders off to reorganise the picture book section. Deep breaths. Keep reading. The parents are on your side (probably). Just redirect gently and power through.
Step 5: Songs & Movement Breaks (Embrace the Wiggles)
After about 5 minutes of sitting, toddlers must move or they will combust. Break up reading time with action songs, parachute games, or an impromptu dance party. If nothing else, this ensures they burn energy instead of using it to dismantle your carefully arranged book display.
Step 6: The Grand Finale – Craft Time!
End on a high note with a simple, toddler-friendly craft. Think stickers, big crayons, or gluing random things onto paper (bonus points if it doesn’t involve glitter). Crafts give little hands something to do, encourage creativity, and—most importantly—give parents a chance to chat while their kids are occupied. Plus, everyone leaves with a masterpiece (or at least a very enthusiastic scribble).
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Yes, it will be loud. Yes, there will be some minor disasters (a sippy cup spill, an escape attempt, maybe even an emotional breakdown—yours or theirs). But in the end, you’ll have a group of happy, giggling toddlers who now associate the library with fun, stories, and magic. And honestly, isn’t that what it’s all about?
Go forth, brave librarian. Storytime awaits.
You can see the chaos in person by heading to our website to see when a Storytime is on near you!
If you would like to learn more about First 5 Forever, a play-based program encouraging families to talk, read, sing and play with their babies and young children in the first 5 years, head to this website. It’s a wonderful trove of information and handy tips for you and your little one!