Bookcase

Now that the older children are about to head back to school, it's time to check out the programmes for the preschool gang at your local library. Most libraries throughout the country hold regular, free storytimes for preschoolers - many of these are especially for toddlers.

These programmes include rhymes, stories and often music and a craft activity, and are an opportunity for young children to experience pre-reading skills in a social environment.

Don't worry that your toddler won't sit still; the librarian won't expect them to. Even if you fear that your child isn't joining in, you may discover them repeating the rhymes and songs throughout the following days _ it's all part of the learning experience.

Ring your local library or check their website for programme times.

Here's a rhyme to share:

Here is the sea, the wavy sea

(make wave motions with hands)

Here is my boat and here is me

(both arms across body and raise uppermost thumb)

And all the fishes down below

(hold hands towards floor)

Waggle their tails and away they go

(wiggle fingers and hide them behind back)