As reported previously, I have changed the format of my Toddler Storytime, so that it now runs in six-week sessions that require pre-registration.  In past years at our library, all storytimes have been drop-in, and some eyebrows were raised when I decided to switch this one storytime.  I heard a few mutterings that attendance would drop off, that no one would sign up.  I myself wasn’t sure what to expect; I only knew that I was going to go prematurely grey and wrinkled if I didn’t claim some control of the Toddler Storytime.

Amazingly, it has all worked out beautifully.  So many families registered on the first day that I decided to add a second time slot which meets immediately after the original time slot, and now both time slots have ten children and their caregivers signed up for the six week session, the perfect size for this age group.  The benefits of pre-registration are many, but here are my favorites:

• Since I have a list of names to work from, we can all wear nametags and get to know each other.
• I have the ability to stress the importance of arriving on time (it’s the first bulleted item on the registration letter).
• The children will benefit from consistency of attendance, both their own and their storytime-mates: we’ll be able to grow as a group, and to establish a true group dynamic.
• Room set-up and book selection are majorly simplified for me.  I know exactly how many carpet squares to put out, and how many books to request from other libraries.
• And having the two time slots meet back-to-back means that I only have to prepare once for two separate sessions. 

The Infant, Preschool, and Saturday storytimes will remain drop-in, for a variety of reasons, but the benefits of containing the scope of the Toddler Storytime have been enormous.  Rest assured, if demand increases, I’ll add a third time slot.  The intention is to make the program better for everyone, but not to leave anyone out.  It’s all good.