Story provided by Stillwater Public Library
The Stillwater Public Library’s preschool programming is expanding in 2024 with a monthly “Music and Movement” class for children 5-years-old and younger. Classes will occur at 10:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month on January 3, February 7, March 6 and April 3. Funding for the program comes from a health literacy grant provided by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).
“Our intent is to teach children and caregivers a fun and engaging way to help children live more healthfully,” said Elizabeth Murray, children’s librarian. “Exposing children and caregivers to this activity, which can be recreated at home, encourages positive and long-lasting, healthier habits.”
The library will distribute 60 “Music and Movement” take-home bags to children who attend the programs while supplies last. The bags include egg shakers, wrist bells and a movement scarf. Kids will use the items during the library programs and then take them home to hold their own mini-programs.
“I hope that parents and caregivers will be inspired to regularly pull up music at home and lead children through the movement activities they learn at the library,” Murray said.
Katherine Battenberg of the Midtown School of Performing Arts will lead the “Music and Movement” program. According to Murray, Battenberg will also train the children’s librarians so the library can continue to offer classes and lead programs during outreach visits to local children’s organizations.
“Providing more learning opportunities for caregivers to support children’s physical development and health habits is just one stepping stone to providing a foundation for a healthy community,” Murray said. “I look forward to seeing the children grow more confident in their abilities and maybe get them even more excited to visit the library.”
To receive program email reminders, sign up at tinyurl.com/SPLmusic2024.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.