Bucks County Free Library Announces New Preschool Sensory Storytime Program

The Bucks County Free Library announced this week that it is now offering Sensory Storytimes at the Doylestown branch. This new storytime program has been launched to create a comfortable, positive and welcoming environment for preschool children on the autism spectrum or who have sensory processing issues, according to an announcement from the library.

It will be an inclusive program of stories, songs, and activities, children can move around and be loud.

"BCFL encourages children to bring a favorite lovey, toy, or fidget and offers headphones to help muffle sounds and a child-sized tepee, as a safe space where children can go if they feel overwhelmed," the announcement said.

The first 30 minutes of Sensory Storytimes will be interactive, featuring preschool-level books, songs, and activities that engage children’s senses and help them to develop literacy and social interaction. The second half of the program is 30 minutes of monitored social play. "Children can play with toys aimed at improving fine and gross motor skills, including fidget toys and weight pads," the announcement said.

Parents and caregivers can borrow many of the toys used during Sensory Storytimes with a BCFL library card. Sensory kits include toys to improve gross and fine motors skills, as well as music and movement toys.

Sensory Storytimes are scheduled for Fridays at the Doylestown District Center Library, alternating every-other-week between morning (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) and afternoon (2 to 3 p.m.) sessions.

Due to the nature of this program, registration is limited to 10 children per session. To register for Sensory Storytimes, click here.