Bring preschoolers to the library to beat winter blues

When January hits, so does cabin fever for many of our community's toddlers and preschoolers. What's a parent to do?

Come to the Schaumburg Library, where there's never a shortage of programs designed specifically for little ones. During January and February, the library will offer free story times, play groups, entertainment and even a Preschool Open House, where parents can meet with local preschool, day care and home day care representatives.

Please note: for some of the programs, free tickets must be picked up from the library desk 30 minutes prior to the program.

Storytimes are led by librarians, guest storytellers and even some of our local mayors. Some are designed for parents and children to attend together, while others promote independence by having the child attend without a parent or caregiver.

To keep children engaged, each storytime includes fun elements such as singing, dancing, hand motions or art/craft projects that coincide with the story.

On Wednesdays, Hanover Park Mayor Rod Craig presents "Family Time" with stories and activities from 11-11:30 a.m. at the Hanover Park Branch Library.

Preschool programs are generally designed for ages 1-3, 2-5, or 3-6. In January and February, 2- to 5-year-olds can join "Firezone Fun" from 1-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Central Library in Schaumburg, where they'll participate in activities and hear stories while learning safety tips.

Kids from newborns to age 6 will be filled with laughter and amazement as they're entertained by Chris Fascione during "Juggling Funny Stories" from 1-1:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, at the Hanover Park Branch; and Friday, Jan. 27, at the Hoffman Estates Branch. Details are available in the December-January Guide.

Parents of 2- to 5-year-olds who are considering child care options won't want to miss the library's annual Preschool Open House from 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, in the Program Room of the Central Library in Schaumburg.

This is a one-stop way to meet numerous day care or home day care representatives, ask questions, pick up handouts and gather information to determine which is the best fit for you and your child.

For a full listing of programs for children, teens and adults, as well as computer classes for adults and seniors, see the Library Guide, which is mailed to Schaumburg residents and available within the library. It can also be accessed online at www.SchaumburgLibrary.org.