Photo courtesy of Chandler Public Library
In an innovative approach to storytime, the Chandler Public Library is taking literature to the poolside this summer. The aquatic center will host two engaging events for families with toddlers and preschoolers on August 12 and August 26, bringing together the joys of reading and swimming in a unique blend of fun and education.
The first event, scheduled for August 12 at the Hamilton Aquatic Center, will offer attendees a refreshing experience – an enchanting storytime coupled with the joy of splashing in the water. The second event, planned for August 26 at the Nozomi Aquatic Center, promises a similar dose of learning and leisure.
“The idea is to foster a love for reading in an engaging and relaxed environment,” says Library Director Christine Burke. “We believe that combining the excitement of pool time with the charm of storytime can create a unique bond between our youngest readers and books.”
During each hour-long event, beginning at 11 a.m., families can listen, sing, and dance along to stories while enjoying the pool. Each event will feature a new book, turning each splashy gathering into a unique experience. After the storytelling session, children will have an additional 30 minutes for structured pool playtime.
The events are a part of the Chandler Public Library’s initiative to promote literacy among the city’s youngest residents. The programs are free and operate on a drop-in basis, making them accessible to all families within the community. Ideal for children up to 5 years of age, the library aims to provide a fun and interactive alternative to conventional storytime sessions.
These poolside storytime sessions come as part of a wider drive to make reading more engaging and enjoyable for children. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, reading aloud to children not only supports their literacy development but also strengthens their social, emotional, and cognitive skills.
“These events highlight the creative ways in which we can integrate literature into our children’s daily activities,” says Burke. “By bringing storytime poolside, we hope to make reading a splashy adventure for our young attendees.”
Parents and caregivers are invited to bring their little ones to the Hamilton Aquatic Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, August 12, and the Nozomi Aquatic Center, 250 S. Kyrene Rd., Chandler, August 26, for a blend of summer fun and enriching storytime. Both events are free and designed to create memorable and educational experiences for Chandler’s young community members.
For more information about the upcoming storytime sessions, please visit chandleraz.gov/events.
