Loud noises and large crowds might prove to be bothersome for your little with special needs, which is why several local libraries are adapting their story times for all abilities. Keeping story time crowds small, dimming lights, incorporating sensory toys and weighted blankets in the typically hour-long programming, are just some of the amenities at these Dallas-Fort Worth libraries.
Note that many of these programs may still be on hiatus due to COVID-19 safety precautions. Reach out to library staff to inquire about when these programs are scheduled to return.
Arlington’s George W. Hawkes Downtown Library
As part of its “Born to Stand Out” programming, Arlington’s downtown library hosts a story time for kids with special needs. Story time incorporates calming songs and a range of activities that kids can choose from. Each session is different at the Special Needs Story Time, adapting to the kids’ needs. For instance, in some sessions two or three books are read, while on other occasions, only one book is read and more songs are incorporated. Lights are dimmed and music is turned down for littles who experience sensory overload. Special needs served range from kids on the autism spectrum to Down syndrome. The library has additional accessibility services including a children’s book collection in Braille for littles who have low vision, and hearing loops for those who have hearing impairments.
Schedule: Call for current offerings. Story times were previously offered on Thursdays at 11:30am.
Location: 100 S. Center St., Arlington
Contact: 817/459-6900
Carrollton Public Library at Josey Ranch Lake
Unlike regular story time, this sensory-friendly program at the Carrollton Public Library is held in a smaller, less decorative room, giving kiddos ages 3 and up a more calming space. Toys and knick knacks such as scarves, fidgets in addition to a “quiet” tent are available in the room. Story time usually lasts about 20 minutes, followed by an additional 20 minutes of free play and socialization. Groups are limited to 10 kids per session. Call to register.
Schedule: Call for current offerings. Story times were previously offered at 4:30pm on Wednesdays (of every month except for May)
Location: 1700 Keller Springs Road, Carrollton
Contact: 972/466-4800
Coppell’s Cozby Library and Community Commons
Story time at this local Coppell library incorporates a kid favorite—bubbles! Plus, there are sensory toys such as blocks and balls with varying textures, kinetic sand kids can run their fingers through and visual timelines guiding the audience through the 30-minute-long programming. Little tents with weighted blankets are set up nearby should your child wish to have a cozy space. Parents are encouraged to join in on the fun and play with the kiddos, too. Story times typically have about 10 kids per session––all ages are welcome. Siblings are also welcome. Registration is required in advance. Sign up online.
Schedule: Call for current offerings.
Location: 177 N. Heartz Road, Coppell
Contact: 972/304-3658
Frisco Public Library
Kiddos ages 8 and younger are welcome at Frisco Public Library’s 30-minute Sensory Story Time, taking place on select Saturdays once a month. Geared toward kids who are on the autism spectrum or who are sensory-sensitive, story time incorporates activities that engage the senses. Running their hands through sand and Play-Doh, singing along to songs and hearing sounds that go along with the story are just a few examples of the sensory-engaging activities kids can do. Typically, there are anywhere from 10-15 kids in each story time. Registration is not required in advance.
Schedule: Call for current offerings.
Location: 6101 Frisco Square Blvd., Frisco
Contact: 972/292-5669
Plano Public Library
Lights are dimmed and sound levels are lower during Plano library’s SNAP (special needs and autism friendly programs) at Davis Library story time, designed for littles age 3 and older on the autism spectrum. The 45-minute program, held in the library’s story time castle, begins with about 20 minutes of storytelling followed by play time, engaging kids through toys such as a sensory board and blocks with different textures. There’s also a tent nearby should your kid wish to have a little alone time.
Schedule: Call or email for current offerings.
Location: Davis Library, 7501-B Independence Parkway, Plano
Contact: 972/208-8000; sensorystorytime@plano.gov
Wylie’s Smith Public Library
The half-hour Sensory Story Time includes adapted activities and toys for kids such as bean-bag chairs, squishy balls and silky fabrics––all playthings that ignite the senses. Two books are typically read during the story time, in addition to a dance time and sensory crafts that relate to the stories’ themes. Open to a maximum of 10 kids and their families. Schedule: Held monthly August through April; call for future offerings
Location: 300 Country Club Road, Wylie
Contact: 972/516-6250; sensorystorytime@wylietexas.gov
This article was originally published in March 2019.
Photo courtesy of Frisco Public Library
