Play groups are offered at each of the four library branches in Pocahontas County for children ages 3-5 years of age.

Groups typically start in September and run through May. Parents are invited to enroll a child at any time.

The purpose of play group is for young children to do activities in a structured setting with other kids of similar age to develop social skills such as cooperating with others, learning to follow instructions from someone besides a parent, and listening skills. Additionally, children build eye-hand coordination, gain creativity, learn new games, stories, and activities, and learn about libraries. Parents are encouraged to check out books to read to their children.

The play groups can only operate well when several parents offer to volunteer their time to help. These parents find the time at play group rewarding as they contribute their own skills while learning from other parents as well as the librarian.

A small fee of 50 to 75 cents may be collected to help with supply and snack expenses.

The Pocahontas County Schools offer an excellent and extensive pre-school program for this age group at the three county elementary schools. Our library programs are much smaller in scale. Children may be in both programs if the schedule fits.