Sensory Storytime

Awarded by the National Association of Counties

Sensory Storytime is an early literacy program designed to be adaptive and inclusive to children of all abilities, with particular emphasis on serving children on the Autism spectrum. At Henrico County Public Library, a Children’s Librarian recognized the need to reflect the neurodiversity of her community in the Library’s programming. The Librarian partnered with Henrico’s Infant & Toddler Services, located in the Henrico Area Mental Health and Developmental Services, to provide trained assistance for families and caregivers of children on the Autism spectrum during a specially-designed storytime. Library staff presenters are trained to be attentive to each child and make adaptations as needed throughout the program to meet all participants’ needs. The Librarian envisioned Sensory Storytime as a gateway to the library for families and children who have not traditionally been encouraged to see the library as their own. The program focuses on fine and gross motor movement, oral skills, songs, rhymes, and books, with time after each program dedicated to encouraging child and family interaction and bonding through play. Sensory Storytime creates an accessible, engaging, and safe early literacy program for children on the Autism spectrum and their caregivers.