Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will participate in “Hatchlings: Ready to Hatch,” a state-wide program aimed to help expectant and new parents be their child’s first teachers.
“Hatchlings: Ready to Hatch” was developed by Betsy Diamant-Cohen, the creator of another interactive session for babies and toddlers called Mother Goose on the Loose. Hatchlings follows a similar format as Mother Goose on the Loose, which focuses on enthusiasm and repetition.
The first three classes all take place in March and focus on the first stage of this program, called “Ready to Hatch.” Part one is aimed at teaching expectant parents about their baby’s body and brain development, and how to encourage reading from early-on.
In October, parents are invited back for the program’s second stage, “Hatchlings: In the Nest.” The second part is designed for babies up to four months old and their caregivers.
Sessions will be held on Mar. 16 at the White Oak Library, Mar. 25 at the Wheaton Library and Mar. 28 at the Long Branch Library. The last two sessions will be in both Spanish and English.
Program attendees will get a free book, bilingual English/Spanish song sheets and an early literacy activity calendar.
