Wake libraries host kindergarten prep events

Through play-based activities offered during the series, preschoolers will gain fine motor, spatial perception and social skills and build confidence and independence.

Posted 3:27 p.m. Jan 5, 2017 — Updated 3:27 p.m. Jan 5, 2017

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Starting this weekend, Wake County Public Libraries will host a series of community play dates to help little ones get ready for kindergarten.

The series, called Ready, Set, School, is designed for kids ages 3 to 5 and held in partnership with Marbles Kids Museum and Wake County. (Marbles in downtown Raleigh also has a great kindergarten readiness exhibit called Ready, Set, School on its first floor).

Through play-based activities offered during the series, preschoolers will gain fine motor, spatial perception and social skills and build confidence and independence. Kindergarten registration begins today, Thursday, Jan. 5, in the Wake County Public School System.

“Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone for children and their parents, and we want to help make sure every child is set up to succeed,” said Ann Burlingame, deputy library director, in a press release. “Our library programs are fun and interactive, but most importantly, they will help families be ready for the transition to kindergarten.”

I have always been a big fan of Wake library programs, which are free, educational and fun for kids. For babies, toddlers and preschoolers, the storytimes are a great way for kids to build skills and for parents to get out and meet others in the same boat. Before my younger daughter headed to kindergarten, we were regular storytime participants.

These new programs are a great extension of the library system's services.

Here are the dates for Ready, Set, School, which will be held on Saturdays starting this month and running through May 20.

Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 1, April 1, May 6

Green Road Community Library, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Wendell Community Library, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 11, April 8, May 13

Richard B. Harrison Community Library, 11:30 a.m. to 1 :30 p.m.
Zebulon Community Library, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Jan. 21, Feb. 18, March 18, April 22, May 20

East Regional Library, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Southgate Community Library, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jan. 28, Feb. 25, March 25, April 29

Southeast Regional Library, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Athens Drive Community Library, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wake County Public Libraries is also offering a weekly school readiness program for preschoolers called ABC Craft and Learn. Children and their caregivers will work on a craft that helps them practice the alphabet and learn other skills for the classroom. Caregivers will learn ways to continue to develop those skills at home.

ABC Craft and Learn sessions will be held Saturdays in January at:

East Regional Library, 11:30 a.m.

Green Road Community Library, 11:30 a.m.

Southeast Regional Library, 11:30 a.m.

Wendell Community Library, 10:30 a.m.

Zebulon Community Library, 10:30 a.m.

It's all free. No registration is required. Wake Libraries' website has more information, including storytime schedules and addresses for all of the libraries.

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