In February, the Northbrook Public Library is launching two Spanish language-based programs: a Fun with Spanish Story Time, and a four-session Sing and Play Spanish Class.
While the library has always held programs that focus on various cultures, this is the first set of language-based programming being offered to the community.
“We have many patrons that speak other languages, as well as patrons that bring their children to language enrichment programs in the area,” said Youth Services Manager Kelly Durov. “There is a definite interest in the community, in exposing children to different languages.”
The library will be partnering with Northbrook resident Alisa Kusnitzow, who has experience in running Spanish language programs for children, to execute these new programs.
“We’re very lucky to have connected with Alisa,” said Durov. “It’s a perfect partnership. We’re so excited to be working with a member of the community to bring something new to the library.”
The Fun with Spanish Storytime on Friday, February 19 at 10:30am, is a drop-in program that is open to all ages. At the program, children will explore the Spanish language with songs, stories, rhymes, and movement. Durov says the Fun with Spanish Storytime will have a “familiar feel” to children that have come to the library’s regular storytimes.
“Alisa has attended our storytimes, so she’s familiar with the style,” said Durov. “The Fun with Spanish Storytime will be enhanced by her teaching experience and her background.”
The Sing and Play Spanish Class, which begins on Friday, February 26, requires registration for all four classes, and is designed for children ages 2-4 with an adult. Sing and Play Spanish Class intends to give children a brain-building dose of the Spanish language while they bond with their caregiver. Classes are held on Fridays, February 26, March 4, March 11, & March 18 from 10:30-11am. Interested patrons should contact the library to register.
Whether children are able to attend one or both of the new Spanish-based programs, Durov feels that they will benefit from the language exposure.
“Children learn language more easily at a younger age, when their brains are more flexible and receptive. So, exposure as early as possible is important,” said Durov. “I think a lot of today’s parents realize that consistent exposure to another language is incredibly beneficial, and want that for their children.”
The Spanish language-based programs debuting this month may be the first of many language-based programs to come, according to Durov.
“These programs are definitely a good test run for future language programs [at the library],” said Durov. “We would be interested in expanding [our programs] to other languages, if people in the community would be interested in partnering.”
