Written by Lauren Hayes, Early Childhood Education Specialist
As September arrives and families settle into new routines, many parents of preschoolers are navigating a season full of excitement, questions, and big emotions. Whether you have a child starting preschool or you’re simply looking for enriching ways to support their development, Spokane Public Library is here to help.
The library is more than a place for books. It’s a welcoming, playful, and educational space designed to support families through every stage of early childhood. Here’s how you and your preschooler can make the most of what we offer this fall.
Storytimes That Build Skills
Storytime is one of the most popular programs at Spokane Public Library, and for good reason. These sessions are thoughtfully designed to support early literacy, beginning math skills, language development, and social skills, all while keeping things active and engaging.
We offer a variety of storytimes to meet your family’s needs:
- Baby Storytime for our youngest learners and their caregivers
- Toddler Storytime for wiggly walkers and talkers
- Family Storytime for all ages to enjoy together
- Kindergarten Countdown Storytime for preschoolers getting ready for school
Each session includes songs, movement, and interactive stories that help children build vocabulary, learn to follow directions, and develop a love of learning.
Storytimes run for around 30 minutes and are followed by a 30 minute playgroup with puzzles, games, and age-appropriate toys that promote sharing, problem solving, and friendship building. For the best experience, we encourage families to attend sessions that match your child’s developmental stage. This way, the activities and stories will be just right for them, making it even more fun and engaging! It’s also a great way to meet other families with children around the same age and build a weekly routine.
Kindergarten Readiness Starts Now
Preschool is the perfect time to start building the skills kids will need for school success. Our Kindergarten Countdown Storytimes introduce children to classroom routines in a playful, low-pressure environment.
Kindergarten Countdown Storytimes are designed to help your child develop essential skills like listening, taking turns, recognizing letters and numbers, counting, and following directions. But that’s not all! We also incorporate music, fun movement activities, and lively conversations that spark curiosity and encourage self-expression. By fostering confidence in group settings and igniting a passion for learning, these programs equip children with invaluable skills that will serve them well in kindergarten and beyond.
Play, Explore, and Create
Learning doesn’t stop at storytime. Spokane Public Library offers plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration and imaginative play. Each branch features a unique playspace for climbing, sliding, and even occasional scavenger hunts or simple crafts that encourage imagination and motor development.
These experiences help children build problem-solving skills, express themselves, and engage with the world around them. Also, be sure to check our events calendar for special musical performances, seasonal celebrations, and art and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs.
Books for Every Milestone
Preschoolers are learning how to navigate big feelings, new friendships, and new routines. The good news is that there’s a book for just about every situation.
Our staff can help you find the perfect story to support your child through transitions, answer their questions, or simply make them laugh. If you’re short on time, check out our book lists and themed displays for a quick and easy way to grab a stack of great reads. Whether you’re looking for books about the first day of school, potty training, or learning to share, we’re here to help.
Looking for a fun way to build a lifelong love of reading? Join our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge. This self-paced program encourages families to read together, celebrate every milestone, and earn some stickers and prizes along the way! Every book counts—even the ones you read over and over again!—and it’s a wonderful way to build a special reading routine with your child. This challenge can be tracked on our paper log or online at spokanelibrary.beanstack.org (make sure you register your child in Beanstack to see the challenge).
Resources for Parents
The library is a valuable resource for caregivers, too. Whether you’re looking for parenting books, early literacy tips, or just a quiet place to regroup, we’re here for you.
We also provide access to Wi- Fi, printing, and community resources. If you have questions about your child’s development or learning needs, our staff can connect you with helpful tools and information.
Don’t forget about our digital resources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming content—perfect for busy days or cozy nights at home.
Make the Library Part of Your Routine
One of the best things you can do for your preschooler’s development is to make regular library visits part of your weekly rhythm. Whether you come for a program, to pick out books, or just to play and explore, the library is a space where your child can grow, learn, and feel at home.
Visit our events calendar to see what’s coming up, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations. We love helping families find new favorites and make lasting memories.
You Belong Here
No matter where you are on your parenting journey, Spokane Public Library is a place where you and your child are welcome. We’re here to support you with free, fun, and meaningful experiences that help your preschooler thrive.
This September, as you settle into the back-to-school season, make the library part of your routine. We can’t wait to see you—and your little learner—soon!
