Family Resources at the Library: PreK

Each developmental stage in a child’s life is unique and comes with its own milestones, opens a new window. Children in PreK range in age from two to four years old. Palo Alto City Library offers both materials and activities to support this age group in the years prior to entering elementary school.

Books

What types of books are best for children in PreK?

• Look for books with repetition and rhyme because the cadence will keep their attention, as will bright and bold colors.
• Just-right PreK books contain bright colors and fun imagery combined with an attention-grabbing story.
• Everything from animal adventures to family life, our PreK favorites, opens a new window booklist is sure to be a hit with your little one.

Programs

Our weekly Family Storytimes, opens a new window are offered to children of all ages and their caregivers.

• This storytime will appeal to children ages two to four because it includes a variety of early literacy activities such as read-alouds, interactive songs, fun rhymes, and movement activities to get them thinking (and laughing!)
• Storytellers engage the audience in question-and-answer exercises that will prepare little ones for the school environment.

Family Craft

Every month the library hosts a Family Craft, opens a new window event, which is open to children ages four to eleven and their parents/caregivers. Our fun craft activities are themed, and tend to reflect either seasons, holidays, or observances that happen in the same month.

eLibrary Resources

In addition to print materials, Palo Alto City Library has online resources to enhance literacy learning skills.

• Bookflix, opens a new window: Pairs classic video storybooks with related nonfiction: Animals and Nature, Family and Community, Celebrations. 
• Check out eBook collections on Overdrive/Libby, opens a new window. Fans of Pete the Cat, opens a new window, Peppa Pig, opens a new window, and Berenstain Bears, opens a new window are sure to find something. Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Head over to the Kids Collection, opens a new window to find eBooks and audiobooks for all ages!
• Log in to your Hoopla, opens a new window account and turn on Kids mode to find audiobooks, eBooks, movies, and more! When you turn on Kids Mode, you’ll only see content recommended for kids 12 and younger.
• Kanopy Kids is Kanopy’s curated collection for children ages 2-8. You’ll find read-along storybooks, classic stories, TV series and movies and language learning resources for kids. Another bonus: These resources are available for unlimited viewing!

Local Resources