Dealing With Large Groups

In my last storytime wrap up, I asked for tips of what you do to help wrangle in some of the larger, wilder storytime groups. After looking around and picking the brains of some of my colleagues, I've come up with some suggestions for those of you who are at a loss.

Create a storytime atmosphere that is more condusive to a presentation or show than a circle time.
Some storytellers use PowerPoint presentations (something I'll be posting about later this week) while others set up mini stages for themselves. The use of these props sets the tone that those in attendance are an audience. While it changes the dynamic of the program, the use of a microphone (if needed) or other "unconventional" storytime equipment can help to make sure that every one in attendance has the option to pay attention over the noise of a large group.

Provide toys to play with throughout the program.
For my baby time, I lay out a parachute and then place soft blocks, balls and other toys on it. The kids are free to crawl around and play with them while we sing, read and learn. This time spent interacting with other children and their parents is still important to their devlopment.

Adapt your program.
If you realize that the storytime has gotten out of hand and you've lost their attention, fall back on prepared free-for-all activities or games instead. This can stifle any fussiness and, again, encourages interaction with other children.

Wednesday Story Time

At my library, I do two story times on Wednesdays - a baby time and a toddler time. Each week, I try to select a few finger plays and three books that match whatever theme we're focusing on. This week's theme is Arizona Centennial.



Two Cool Coyotes by Jillian Lund

 Our storytimes have started to become massive due to the kickoff of our Summer Reading Program. I thought this would be a big hit but the width of the book made it hard to keep a hold of (the things you realize as a story teller!) and, either way, the kids just weren't too into it.

Desert Night Desert Day by Anthony Fredricks

The kids were very receptive to this story. They had fun pointing out the quail that makes an appearance on almost every page as well as the other desert flora and fauna. The illustrations in this book are really beautiful and the rhyming is enjoyable for all ages.

Don't Call Me Pig! by Conrad Storad



Another bust. I thought they would like how sassy the main character is but I think it went over their heads. I skipped quite a few of the pages for a quick finish and then substituted in No, David! which I made interactive by letting the kids shout "No David!" and explaining what his bad behavior was on each page.

Any tips for large storytime groups? What do you do when it seems like your program has devolved into utter chaos?