Due to COVID-19, all of my upcoming MGOL workshops have been temporarily halted and I don’t know when I will be able to start traveling and presenting workshops again. However, following a request from the Brooklyn Public Library to create webinars in place of a postponed April workshop, I developed three webinars for librarians.
A couple of weeks ago, I finished presenting all three webinars to them. The feedback was so gratifying that I’m now in the process of creating even more one-hour webinars, all based on the philosophy behind Mother Goose on the Loose. I’d like to invite you to book one or more of them!
Each webinar has interactive components, can be offered on a Zoom platform, and comes with printed resource pages. I have three webinars that are ready to go, but many more that I am interested in doing. The list of topics and descriptions is below, but if you would like one you don’t see, just let me know!
The price for each webinar is $1000.
Here’s what one participant had to say:
This was one of the best virtual webinars that I have taken.
I have watched so many YouTube programs about flannels and never received the information that I needed.
Thank you very much and I wish it could be done again.
Dr. Betsy Diamant-Cohen is exceptional and actually shared
ideas with us instead of just talking.
I would love to know of any other programs that you provide.
Catherine Barretta, Children's Librarian
The Bryant Library, Roslyn, NY
To book a webinar, send an email to info@mgol.org or call 410.207.4105 for more information.
Ready-to-go Webinars:
- Scarves, Songs, and Activities
Colored scarves enhance all types of library programs. “Scarves, Songs, and Activities” is for people who want to learn new ways to use scarves and to expand their use of scarves in programs. Basic concepts of scarf play, benefits of using scarves, and distinct types of scarves are discussed. Several hands-on activities include using scarves to accompany songs, for games, with recorded music, to liven up stories, and more.
Participants are requested to bring a colored scarf, a lightweight dish towel, a pillowcase, a piece of fabric or a sock to the webinar.
| 2. Flannel Board Fun A flannel board adds pizzazz to programming from home and at the library. Learn how to make inexpensive flannel boards and felt pieces. Use felt pieces as visual representations for songs and rhymes, for telling stories and for playing games. Experience new ways to build math skills, language skills and even social/emotional skills. |
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3. Programming for Parents with Infants 
Programs for parents with infants is a relatively new phenomenon within the public library; virtual programming for this population is even newer! This webinar addresses why these programs are important and covers types of virtual programs, popular elements to include in programs, criteria for choosing good books and props, recommended activities, and developmental tips.
Participants are requested to bring a stuffed animal or doll to the webinar.
Coming Soon:
- Virtual Programming Using Common Household Items
Include parents in your virtual programming by enlisting their assistance in making props to go along with stories and songs using cereal boxes, a dish towel, egg cartons, pots & pans, wooden spoons, toilet paper & paper towel tubes, empty tissue boxes, paper plates, and more. Provide inexpensive fun for the entire family while connecting them with books in exciting new ways.
Participants are requested to bring a stuffed animal or doll to the webinar.
5. Knee Bounces: How, What and Why?
Young children who find it difficult to sit still often return to their parent’s laps when it is time for knee bounces. Older children enjoy the bouncing and leaning involved. Learn about the history of knee bounces, the value of adding them to your programs, and participate in hands-on (or should I say ‘leg’s on”?) activities that give plenty of examples which can be translated into your library setting.
6. Tried and True Fingerplays
“Baby Shark” may be the hit of the year, but there are many time-tested fingerplays and songs that have never lost their appeal to children. Enjoy singing, chanting and doing fingerplays together with your colleagues, while refreshing your memory or learning new activities that are oldies but goodies. Suitable for use with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
7. Developing math skills though songs and rhymes
Many rhymes contain math words and math concepts, but it is not always obvious. Additionally, some ways of presenting these number rhymes are more effective than others. Tips and tricks about how to help children develop and practice different math skills will be covered in this hands-on webinar. I
8. Ring Your Bells!
Of the many percussion instruments used in children’s programming, bells are often the most popular. Discovery why bell-play is important for helping children develop numerous skills and participate in joyful hands-on activities. Learn about resources for using bells with children and share your favorite bell songs and activities.
Participants are requested to bring a bell of some type of musical instrument to the webinar.
9. Tap Your Sticks and More
Rhythm sticks are typically used for tapping to the beat, but there is much more that can be done with them. Explore new ways to use sticks with children of different ages and stages and contribute to a massive stick brain-storming session. The results will be posted online to serve as a resource for others.
Participants are requested to bring two sticks (or something similar) to use during the webinar.
10. Shake Your Shakers!
Maracas, rattles, egg shakers, maracitos, and chickitas are all “shakers.” Simple to make and easy to acquire, the noise made when shaking shakers encourages movement while listening to the beat. Learn about many benefits of shakers, join in hands-on activities, and share them with the children in your programs.
11. Freeze Games for Fun
Even when it isn’t cold outside, freeze games are in season! In order to build self-regulation skills, children need to practice listening, paying attention, following directions and stopping. Freeze games provide a great opportunity to do just that. This webinar will cover the benefits of freeze games and will include many participatory activities.
Participants should have a clear area around their computer so they can move along with the instructor.
12. The Language of the Lullaby
Everyone needs techniques for relaxing themselves; lullabies are perfect for that. Parents who use lullabies to soothe anxious or unhappy children also benefit from their calming influence. Learn about the language of the lullaby, increase your repertoire, and discover new ways to incorporate lullabies into your programs. Resources included in the hand-out.
13. Creating and Using Developmental Tips
Library programs for children are rich opportunities for parent engagement and learning. Brief explanations called “development tips” following an activity can be used to explain the motivation behind that particular activity, the benefits of doing it, and ways it can be replicated at home. Learning three easy steps for crafting developmental tips and having fun practicing with colleagues makes it easy to insert development tips into all programs for all ages.
14. Circle Dances for All Ages
Physical exercise is good for mental health as well as physical health. Teaching and doing easy dances to songs and musical selections helps families stay active even if confined indoors. This webinar will refresh your memories regarding simple dances such as the Hokey Pokey, go over easy basic dance steps, and present simple dances from around the world.
Participants should have a clear area around their computer so they can move along with the instructor.
15. Playing with Opposites
Understanding opposites and knowing how to name some builds vocabulary and improves children’s ability to communicate. STEM skills are strengthened when children have experience comparing one object with another, observing the similarities and differences, and describing them as opposites. Songs, rhymes, and games lend themselves to the introduction of opposites to very young children and the reinforcement of opposites to older children. Will you join in this webinar, yes or no?
16. All About Humpty
Humpty Dumpty is an iconic figure in nursery rhymes, but what do we really know about him? A concise history of Humpty Dumpty will include historical and recent illustrations of this well-known character. Ways to present the rhyme will be paired with developmental tips and suggestions for age-appropriate adaptations. Flannel board templates for Humpty and his wall are included in the hand-out.