Kids who are read to are more likely to recognize the letters of the alphabet, count to 20, and write their own name. Plus, it’s fun! When you just aren’t in the mood to “do the voices” yourself (or perhaps you’re desperately searching for an unreserved copy of Americanah for your book club), make plans to hit up one of these popular story time events (um, get there early!) and know you’ve done something good for your book worm today.
Photo: Mosaic District via Facebook
Stories from Strawberry Park
Every Tuesday at 10 am, a different story teller or story telling group (from Voices in the Glen, a local story telling guild) entertains kids 10 and younger with interactive tales based on a theme (think: dragons, pirates, holiday seasons). The crowd typically convenes at the Mosaic District’s Strawberry Park between Target and the Angelika Film Centre, but meets inside the theater itself from October through April or during inclement weather.
2910 District Ave. (Fairfax, Va)
Online: mosaicdistrict.com
123 Andrés
Performing all over the DMV (and beyond), Andrés Salguero is a musical celebration of Latin culture—he’ll captivate your kids (and you) in both Spanish and English as he sings about friends, colors, and the origins of your salad! Check out his online calendar to plan ahead and start practicing your salsa.
Online: 123andres.com
Young Readers Center
Every Friday at 10:30 am, the Library of Congress hosts an early literacy program for infants and toddlers. The librarian reads several books that revolve around a theme (Independence Day, France, etc.), and families are free to access the incredible non-circulating children’s collection before and after the event.
Thomas Jefferson Building Room LJ G29
10 First St., NE (Capitol Hill)
Online: read.gov
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Did you know your little astronaut’s favorite Smithsonian also hosts story time? Admission is free and the dates vary, but each session includes a hands-on activity based on the selected read-aloud story (with themes such as hot air balloons, famous aviators, creatures with wings, and the planets).
Independence Ave. at 6th St., NW (Federal Center)
Online: airandspace.si.edu
Rockville Library
The flagship Montgomery County library hosts Family Storytime on Saturdays at 10:30 am, making it a great option for weekday working parents. The stories, songs, and rhymes are geared for all ages (but most appropriate for elementary school-aged kids). Bonus: you can “bookend” your story time with Saturday brunch or lunch at one of Rockville Town Square’s nearby restaurants.
Online: rockvilletownsquare.com
Where is your favorite place to take your kid for story time? Tell us in the comments below.
—Katie Brown
Need some fresh ideas?
Related reads
