TOLEDO — The Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library will begin engaging their
smallest patrons in a new way when a sensory literacy program for toddlers debuts.
ToddlerTime Tours, a two-part, multi-sensory experience that brings books and art to life for children
ages 18 to 36 months, is a sequel to the museum’s nationally recognized Baby Tours. The free program
aims to engage toddlers through visual and textual literacy, dual skills that will be important for
these digital natives, many of whom are as proficient with tablet computers as they are with wooden
blocks.
The new program aims to build upon an already-present connection between visuals and storytelling.
Toddlers and parents will get the chance to experience these librarian- and docent-led tours starting in
February, when they can attend one or both portions of the two-stage program.
The first week, a story hour is held at the library’s Main and Maumee branches, themed to connect to a
work of art in the museum’s collection. The second week, the museum welcomes toddlers to experience a
fun, hands-on tour centered around the work, using elements like feathers, bells, blocks and lace to
bring it to life. A children’s librarian will also be present to complete the tour with a story.
The first ToddlerTime Tour will feature paintings and stories with a pet theme. The library portion will
be held Monday at the Maumee Branch and Feb. 6 at the main library. Both events begin at 10:30 a.m.
The museum portion will take place at 6 p.m. on Feb. 13. Pre-registration is required and parents can
choose to attend one or both programs. Though space is limited, efforts will be made to accommodate all
families who wish to participate.
For more information, call the museum at 419-255-8000, the library at 419-259-5200 or visit
toledomuseum.org/learn/toddler-time-tours or catalog.toledolibrary.org/programs (enter keyword
“toddlertime” in the search engine).