Lots of movin’ and groovin’ with Mar at Library

WAREHAM – It’s wonderful to be young.

Boys and girls from toddlers to preschoolers get to do what they do best – move around, jump, sing, laugh and play – every Thursday morning at the Wareham Free Library during its very popular “Music with Mar” program. From 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., the indefatigable Bethany Gay directs youngsters in a ceaseless series of activities designed to maximize their enjoyment and enhance their learning capabilities.

Accompanied by a wide variety of musical selections, Gay choreographs specific exercises during “Music with Mar” that foster bonding and prepare children for skills needed for learning later in life. The program includes singing, dancing, reading books, parachute activities, musical instruments, bubbles, music, movement and even the basics of sign language, all focusing on learning and fun.

On Thursday, Gay put a large group of children through the paces, quickly jumping from one activity to another and maximizing their learning and recreational experiences with the use of props such as rhythm sticks. In the background, parents watched and helped out when needed, lending a semblance of order to a hectic and frequently comical environment.

“Music with Mar” is sponsored by the Office of Beyond School Time of Wareham Public Schools through a Community Engagement grant and its activities are based on brain research findings that impact cognitive, social, emotional, gross and fine-motor skills.

Also at the Wareham Free Library this fall, Storytime programs for children of all ages are held at the Spinney Memorial Branch Library (259 Onset Ave.) on Mondays through Dec. 3 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Toddler Storytimes are staged at the Main Library (59 Marion Road) from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on Tuesdays and Teddy Bear Thursdays are held at the Main Library from 6 to 6:45 p.m.

Children’s Services Director Marcia Hickey directs the Storytime programs, mixing a distinctive flair for reading and comprehending children’s books with fun-filled activities for youngsters.

No advance registration is required for these programs and attendance at all sessions, while recommended, is not mandatory. For further information, contact Hickey at the Main Library at 508-295-2343 or at the Spinney Branch at 508-291-3095.