While we do WISH that REAL puppies & kittens could have visited the library today, our tiny programming area & wall to wall carpet would not have allowed it! (Some parents may have vetoed it, also!)

We began with a special song that my grandad used to sing to me:  “My Kitty is one of the nicest. She has a white spot on her nose.  She washes her face every morning. She washes it most, I suppose!”  Then came the little dog on the corner with his naughty old bark… “Bring back my Kitty to me!“

After discussing what pets need to survive: shelter, food, fresh water, safety, etc., we headed outside (on a beautiful cool day!), and the kids completed four different stations.

At the Food & Water Station, kids tossed “food” into a bowl, and the group had to get 10 pieces in the bowl to succeed. Then, they used straws & a finger, working together to transport enough water to fill the ‘water bowl.’

At the Leash station, kids played follow the leader, each choosing a different animal to be when they led. From gorillas & turtles, to kangaroos & dancing cows, there were some entertaining critters on the move!

At the Play station, kids batted around a kick ball (like a cat bats a ball of yarn), and then they played catch with beanbags.

At the Story Time station, kids heard a story The Perfect Dog, by Kevin O’Malley & read by Mrs. Loomis. They drew hearts on their doghouses & the sidewalk & received copies of the book & pet collar bracelets.

Then it was time to show their finished doghouse pages & find their new critters, hidden throughout the library! 🙂

We’re so thankful for the grant from Dollar General which enabled us to hand out books, stuffed critters & collar bracelets to all the kids in attendance!  Thanks, also, to all our great volunteers!

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