Wriggle & Rhyme takes the fun outdoors
After a three-month COVID-19 enforced break, Wriggle & Rhyme returns to the Waipā District Library in Cambridge on Tuesday, but with the fun moving outdoors.
Three half hour sessions at Victoria Square near the cricket pavilion have been planned for the next three Tuesdays to allow more attendees to attend while abiding by social distancing requirements, Waipā District outreach librarian Dee Atkinson said.
“Given that the weather's getting better, and being outdoors is great for people’s wellbeing, we thought we’ll give it a try and see what happens.”
“These sessions are a trial while our libraries are unable to host sessions in-house.”
Atkinson said the regular library Wriggle & Rhyme sessions were popular when held within the library, with up to 40 children and 30 adults attending each session.
“At the park, we’ll definitely have the space to accommodate more families so we’re looking forward to hearing what people think of the idea.”
The interactive programme designed for ages 0-2 years provides an opportunity to learn and participate in active movement experiences, which can contribute to early literacy development.
“We're going to run as close to the same programme as possible but we will need to adapt slightly as we won't have as many props that some of the indoor sessions have. As we’re outdoors there will also be other health and safety protocols that we’ll adhere to and will ensure our parents are briefed and aware of.
Since lockdown in August, Atkinson has been hosting the sessions virtually via Zoom, which continued when libraries reopened in November due to limits on indoor visitor numbers, but she saw the need for more fun and excitement where families could adhere to COVID-19 protocol and get the most benefit.
“We really want to see our kids and to connect with people we haven't been able to connect with for a while.
“We really miss the children and are looking forward to being able to connect with their families again.”
If the Cambridge session are successful, the Wriggle & Rhyme outdoor sessions will be extended to the Te Awamutu Library on 7 and 14 December, Atkinson said.
Sessions begin at 10.30am and attendees are invited to bring a blanket or picnic rug.
