THE COBOURG DAILY STAR – Thursday, April 18, 2002 – 13
Pizza, Pickle, Pumpernickel,
My little guy shall have a tickle,
One for his nose,
One for his toes,
And one for his tummy
Where the hot dog goes!
(Source: The book of Tapping & clapping / compiled by John M. Feierabend)
If you haven't heard of this rhyme before, you might be interested in knowing that it is just one of many rhymes and songs that the Cobourg Public Library offers in its nursery rhyme program.
The program itself is quite simple, but the rewards are bountiful.
Once a week, babies (0-24 months) and their parents or caregivers gather together to learn and recite nursery rhymes.
"The moon is round, as round can be, two eyes, a nose, and a mouth like me!" is a wonderful, relaxing rhyme, especially good for newborns; but children of all ages like it too!
(Source: The moon is round and other rhymes to play with your baby / from The Parent-Child Mother Goose Program)
There is something very special that happens when these folks get together each Tuesday morning in the program room of the Cobourg Public Library. First there is the period of getting to know everyone’s name, but with just nine participants at a time, the friendships start to unfold very quickly.
The idea behind the program is to teach the parents how to interact, through storytelling, rhymes and songs, with their young children. Two volunteers generously donate their time each week to help me in doing just that. If a child becomes restless, or fussy, or decides to take a wander, then we can look after that child's needs while the parent, if they choose, can still participate in the circle.
This program allows the parents to create some very positive family patterns during their children's significant early years and give their children wholesome early encounters with language and communication.
If you are unable to attend the program, you might be interested in knowing that the library has its own collection of nursery rhyme books, which may be borrowed. Our staff would be happy to assist in choosing the right book for you and your child.
If you are interested in joining this program with your child, please call me at 905-372-9271 x6130. And yes, Dads are welcome too!
SUBMITTED BY RHONDA PERRY,
CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN
