In Fall 2020, incoming kindergartners and their families faced not only the regular transition to elementary school, but also the added stress of starting the school year remotely. For families with children who could benefit from extra instruction time on preschool concepts, how could this formerly in-person program support them in a new virtual, physically distanced way? And how could our library, which had provided free physical space in the past, support the program with new strategies this year?

Our library partnered with the Oak Park E-Team and the Collaboration for Early Childhood, two key community partners. The program provided one-on-one teacher instruction, virtual and hands-on activities and family support circles. The library loaned iPads and weekly deliveries of books personally selected for each child, based on their interests. Library staff also provided a weekly live, virtual storytime that promoted connection and helped kids feel confident about sharing their thoughts and ideas on a virtual platform.

We wanted the 28 enrolled children and their families to be prepared for kindergarten not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. Over four weeks, we saw the kids grow in confidence and kindergarten skills. Library staff scheduled a 30-minute weekly storytime, but our time often stretched to an hour, as the desire for connection was so evident for everyone. And in a new partnership with the school district that will continue all year, families can get ongoing support from the team through family circles.