Scissors, pre-cut paper strips, and colored masking tape. Adults and children created side-by-side. Little instructions, no samples to replicate. All very unique outcomes and approaches.

To extend the story, the children explored play dough as a sensory activity. They used their hands to squeeze, roll, press, and create while continuing to engage with the ideas from the book. This hands-on experience supported fine motor development, creativity, and language as children talked, asked questions, and shared their ideas.

One of the most meaningful moments was hearing the children ask for “more.” Their curiosity and enthusiasm reminded us that young children learn best when literacy is playful, active, and connected to their senses. This experience brought together reading, movement, sensory play, and relationship-building in a beautiful way.

Afterwards, I put the yarn, pipe cleaners, ribbon, and streamers at the art table with cardstock, glue, and scissors. I had two kids who spent a ton of time working on their projects! The younger toddler spent probably 15-20 minutes just cutting short pieces of yarn and gluing them onto the paper. Super fun! (Photos shared with permission!) -Brandi

For playtime, I brought (among other things) materials for a ladybug craft (Do-A-Dot markers, construction paper, googly eyes), a soft bouncy bumblebee toy, and a set of 10 stuffed ladybugs that are used for counting. Each bug has a number and the child's job is to place that number of velcro spots on it. Some children counted with me while others worked alone. One friend fully loaded hers up, even though her ladybug was number 5. We counted together and got all the way to 41! :) Even after storytime was over, kids took turns looking through the book with the magnifying glass. Huge hit! (photos shared with permission!) -Brandi