The perfect place to take the kids, any time of year, is the library. Not only is it free, it’s always cool in the summer and warm in the winter! One of our absolute favorite libraries to visit is the Farmington Community Library (Main Branch). It is located at 32737 W. Twelve Mile in Farmington Hills, and is easily accessible via 696.
The children’s section is in the basement and it is full of opportunities for learning and playing.
Each little area has a sensory based theme, like the “HEAR IT” room where it’s ok to be loud! Kids and adults alike, can pick up a stick and tap on the various instruments hanging around the soundproof walls.
Another fun area is on the stage. There is a kitchen/house set up for hours of imaginative play. Nearby are wooden dollhouses, a Lego table, a rug with tracks for cars and trucks, and various felt word games and rhymes. Children’s book character, Mrs. Piggle Wiggle, reminds you to “Pick up your toys.”
On the other side of the basement, where the non-fiction and higher level chapter books are, there is a listening station, ipad station, computers, and so much more. If you are looking for special needs materials or early literacy bags, they are available here. There is also a fun collection of pop-up books to browse.
As much as we LOVE our local public library, I will drive a little further to visit this one. There is just so much to do here. There is a separate room with felt stories, big blocks, a train table, and puzzles. During our visit today, we saw babies crawling on the big rug while older siblings played in the room.
The place is clean, calm, and welcoming. The staff is kind and willing to help. The programs and storytimes are plentiful. If you are looking for a fun, free place to take the kids, I highly recommend this library!
Author: Julie McKeeman
Julie is first and foremost a mom of two amazing kiddos, Elliott and Bennett. She is an elementary school librarian whose passion is to create safe spaces for all children.
Julie is first and foremost a mom of two amazing kiddos, Elliott and Bennett. She is an elementary school librarian whose passion is to create safe spaces for all children.
