How Wexford Libraries Use Puppets and Rhymes to Support Baby Development
Wexford Libraries has been a consistent customer of our Nursery Rhymes Finger Puppets and Humpty Dumpty Soft Toy, using them in their weekly ‘Rhymetime’ sessions. These sessions are designed to foster early childhood development through music, movement, and social interaction. I am always delighted to see our educational toys being used in ways that truly make a difference.
What is Rhymetime?
Theresa Kelly, Librarian for Children & Young People’s Services at Wexford Library Management Services, explains:
“We started weekly Rhymetime sessions in our libraries in 2017 to support parents and carers with babies (birth - approx. 18 months). We started with very small numbers, but they’ve grown a lot and it’s very popular now with large numbers attending in our five library branches.”
The sessions last about 30 minutes, starting with an interactive welcome song:
“We clap and say hello, we clap and say hello, with all our friends at Rhymetime we clap and say hello….”
Parents or carers sit with their babies on their laps, ensuring they can see the other children in the group. Together, they go through a mix of traditional and modern rhymes, using actions and movement to enhance engagement.
The Developmental Benefits of Rhymetime
These sessions are more than just fun—they play a crucial role in early childhood development. Theresa shares:
“Rhymes are brilliant for early speech and language development, concentration, and such good fun too with all the actions.”
Additionally, the social aspect of Rhymetime is a key focus, encouraging parents to stay, chat, and bond after the session. The idea is that these activities extend beyond the library, with parents and carers incorporating rhymes and movement-based learning at home.
The Role of Puppets & Props
Using visual and tactile props like finger puppets and soft toys makes a big impact:
“Having props like your lovely puppets, Myriam, really helps to engage the babies visually, adds to the enjoyment, and helps to keep their attention focused.”
Puppets help to capture babies’ interest while reinforcing hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and social interaction. They also encourage active participation and make the rhymes even more memorable.
Expanding Sensory Learning
Beyond Rhymetime, Wexford Libraries also incorporate items from Mimitoys’ Sensory Collection in their weekly sensory sessions:
“They are used in our branches for a weekly Sensory session and can be borrowed by families, schools, and support groups for the children they care for.”
This approach ensures that children of all abilities have access to engaging, developmentally appropriate resources.
A Heartfelt Testimonial
Theresa also shared some kind words about Mimitoys:
“I’ve told friends and colleagues about your website and that you offer both a wonderful selection of toys and resources and excellent customer service.”
It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our toys are making a difference in early childhood education across Ireland!
Final Thoughts
Rhymetime at Wexford Libraries is a fantastic initiative that brings families together, supports early learning, and creates meaningful connections between babies and caregivers. Please get in touch with your local library in county Wexford for more details on Rhymetime and other events. I am so proud that Mimitoys’ puppets and toys are playing a part in this experience.
If you're looking for educational toys, puppets, or sensory play resources, check out our collection at Mimitoys.ie!