Today we’re sharing the best story times across the East Valley for kids.
My family loves the library. I hate to brag, but I would consider us platinum level library members. We’ve been hitting up storytimes and checking out books for almost 6 years.
If there were a library MVP, it would be us.
That being said, we have been around the block a time or two when it comes to storytimes. If you haven’t experienced the magic of library storytimes, brace yourself, they are about to change your entire calendar (and save your budget).
Being a mom is awesome, but let’s face it, sometimes you need to get out of your house and have someone else do the heavy lifting of entertaining. Plus, when you attend storytime, you get to give yourself the good mom kudos of educating your kid. You go, mom!
Keep reading for the ultimate guide to local story times across the East Valley.
XO,
Jackie
What’s offered during library story time
Story times are 30-45 minute guided sessions offered by most libraries where caregivers and kiddos can go to sing, read, and learn. They change every week so that the content is fresh.
These sessions are curated for all different ages of kiddos and are run by the most magical librarians in the world who know exactly how to keep your kid involved in an activity.
Some storytime examples:
“Baby Steps” – Infants
“Family Storytime” – 2-5 years old
“Toddler Time” – 18-36 months
“Preschool Story Time” – 3-5 years old
Where to find story times in the East Valley
First off, find your closest library branch using the power of Apple Maps.
*Pro Tip: You do not need to have a library card or even be in the same county in order to attend library events, so go crazy.
Once you choose your location, follow the correct link below to check out the events calendar.
This calendar is your holy grail and will include all of the information that you need like the recommended age range as well as if you need to pre-register or not.
*Pro tip: The librarians aren’t going to check your kid’s birth certificate to verify their exact age but use your judgment as to if your child feels like they would do okay with the recommended age range for the event.
What if my kid cries? Maybe I’d better stay home…
Isn’t it the best when you finally decide to be a fun mom and your kid throws a level ten tantrum in the middle of “Head Shoulders, Knees and Toes”? Good news, the librarians who run these things are seasoned pros.
If your kid does start to fuss, the librarians ask that you take them out of the room until they calm down. But remember, there is NO SHAME.
*Pro Tip: If you have one kid that’s melting and one kid that’s doing great, ask a fellow mom in the room to keep an eye on the chill kid while you take the sad one out into the hallway. You can also pay it forward by being the mom who offers to watch the chill kid. Moms help moms!
Moral of the story
Storytimes are amazing. I know that the idea of leaving the house with littles can be intimidating, but you won’t regret it. Libraries are a safe, free, and book filled place to kill time during the summer regardless of age or stage. Be brave and keep moving. You’ve got this, mama!
Where’s the best story times in the East Valley?
Which ever one works in your schedule.
But seriously, our favorite library branches for kids are: Chandler Downtown Branch, Gilbert’s Southeast Regional branch and Mesa’s Dobson Ranch branch.
Are story times offered anywhere else besides libraries?
YES! Cornerstone Church in Chandler offers a monthly story time on Fridays that includes songs, stories, crafts and snacks–all FREE. Check out our free events calendar for the next story time. You don’t have to be a member of the church to attend these, and they’re seriously the BEST.
Downtown Mesa offers seasonal story times outdoors when the weather is nice (usually along with character appearances as well). These are FREE as well, and we’ll have listed on our free events calendar once fall dates are announced.
Superstition Springs Mall is also offering story times on the second and fourth Thursdays of the months through September at 9:30 a.m. in toddler town. More information can be found on their events website.
