Two different JCPRD storytime programs for young children are beginning new seasons during September.
The programs are: Retro Storytime at the Johnson County Museum, and Animal Tales Storytime at the Ernie Miller Nature Center. Social distancing and COVID-19 safe practices will be encouraged during these programs.
In Retro Storytime for ages three to five with an adult, parents and preschoolers will enjoy the stories and illustrations from long ago, read by a special guest from the museum’s 1950s All-Electric House. After each session’s story presentation, enjoy an art activity for little hands. Stories change monthly, connecting to KidScape community environments, and Kansas Early Learning Standards. These programs take place beginning at 10 a.m. on a Wednesday early each month through December.
The first program in the new season is the 1953 Little Golden Book,
“The Little Red Hen” on Sept. 9. This story is a long-time favorite about a hen, hard work, and the benefits of collaborating with friends. After the story, participants will complete a related craft project. An adult must attend the program with each child.
Other upcoming Retro Storytime programs this season will include:
"The Happy Man and His Dump Truck" on Oct. 14,
“The Poky Little Puppy” on Nov. 18, and
“Frosty the Snow Man" on Dec. 9.
The cost for each 45-minute program is $2 per person, including adults, and museum members receive a 20 percent discount but must register by telephone to receive their discount. Registration for these programs does not include admission to the Johnson County Museum or to KidScape.
Animal Tales Storytime invites young children and their parents to come listen and learn during any or all of the seven sessions scheduled on one or two Thursdays per month through Dec. 17. This program is for ages two to six, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Animal Tales features stories, songs, and surprises. Participants will also get to meet a special animal friend at each session.
Please note that these sessions were originally scheduled for Wednesdays.
This season’s storytime presentations will include:
“Johnny Appleseed” on Sept. 17,
“Fox’s Tale” on Oct. 8,
“Who’s There?” on Oct. 22,
“Forest Secrets” on Nov. 5,
“Turkey Gobble" on Nov. 19,
"Oh Deer!" on Dec. 3, and
"Visit from Santa” on Dec. 17.
The cost per 30-minute session is $2 per person, including adults. While drop-in attendance has been encouraged for this program in the past, because of coronavirus, advance registration is now required. All sessions take place beginning at 10:30 a.m. on a Wednesday.
The Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center is located at 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, while the Ernie Miller Nature Center is located at 909 N. Kansas-7 Highway, Olathe.