Children's Program Descriptions

The following programs are held throughout the year and are listed by age-group. Check the seasonal Library Brochure to view current programs that are being offered.

Mother Goose Rhyme-Time: (Ages 12-23 months with Parent/Caregiver) This unique program offers families with infants and toddlers an opportunity to come together to share classic nursery rhymes, fingerplays and action songs through the use of colorful hand puppets and props.

Tiny Tots Playgroup: (ages 12-35 months with parent/Caregiver) This playgroup is held on Thursday mornings and provides a unique opportunity for families to visit the Library in a friendly, relaxed, learning environment. A children's librarian will be on-hand at the beginning of each class to share stories and songs with all participants. Each week, a different resource specialist will also be present to assist parents and caregivers with developmental concerns and questions.

Toddler Time Storyhour: (ages 24-36 months with Parent/Caregiver) This five-week program for toddlers with Parent/Caregiver meets on Tuesday or Friday mornings for 30 minutes. This introductory storytime is just perfect for the developing toddler. Weekly sessions feature age-appropriate stories, fingerplays, songs and videos; each of a very short duration to accommodate the short attention span of most children this age.

Teddy Bear Club Storyhour: (Ages 3-5 years without Parent/Caregiver) This storyhour program runs October through April and provides preschoolers with an introduction to literature and to the Library world. Stories, poetry, music and videos are delicately woven into a perfect 45 minute reading treat.

Book Bait Book Discussions: Join us for a late afternoon snack. Bring along an old favorite or a recent read to share with everyone gathered.

Chess: "Exercise for the Mind" - This weekly activity is open to children in kindergarten through eighth grade, with all levels of experience and expertise welcome. Players will continue to improve the basic fundamentals of their game including chess rules and strategy planning. Players will also challenge others of equal ability to strengthen their games. Chess tournaments are also scheduled during various times of the year and may be registered for separately.

Puppetry Workshop: Learn about the time honored art of puppetry! Create papier-mache puppet heads, learn to design and create costumes, stage terminology, and perform for family and friends. This workshop requires some work that is completed at home with parental input and supervision. Grades 3-5.

Young Artisans Workshops: (Grades 3-5) These workshops are held on various Wednesdays and Fridays during the school year. Students can participate in an hour long art session developing their creative talent and imagination. Projects are completed in one session to allow students to take them home.

Parent/Teen Book Discussions: Come explore literature while strengthening family relationships. Simply read the book selected for discussion with your child, enjoy talking about it together and then come prepared to share your thoughts with other parents and their teens. Theme related refreshments are to be served immediately following each discussion.

Young Adult Workshops: These workshops are held on various days during the school year. This special series is geared to the interest levels of junior high through high school students. The topics offered vary seasonally and according to current interests.

Saturday Storycraft: Join in for a special Saturday story and song, and then sit down to create a special craft remembrance of the story that was shared by all. This program is designed for Parent/Caregiver and children ages 3 - grade 2.

Saturday Storytime: This storyhour is created especially for families who cannot participate in storyhour during the week. Join us for some special stories, poetry, music and films for a fun-filled 30 minutes. No registration is required, but please bring your Bay Shore - Brightwaters Library Card as proof of residency.

Twilight Tales: Stop by and hear just one more timeless tale before bedtime. Bring along your library card and your favorite blanket and stuffed animal to this special evening program. Then enjoy milk and cookies to complete the evening festivities.

WEBsters Parent/Child Internet Training Classes: These hands-on classes offer families an opportunity to travel around the information superhighway together! A children's librarian will provide an introduction to the Internet as well as offer direction and suggestions on where to find great children's and family websites!!!

Winter Doldrum Series: These series of live performances are held on Saturday afternoons during the months of January, February, and March. Tickets are required and may be obtained at the Circulation Desk.

Parenting Series: Topics of interest to parents are discussed in the evenings during various times of the year as the Library presents guest speakers familiar with specific parenting concerns. See the Library Brochure or Children's Service for the schedule of monthly topics.