NICHOLS, Judy. Storytimes for Two-Year-Olds 3rd ed. illus. by Lori D. Sears. 252p. bibliog. discography. index. Web sites. CIP. ALA 2007. pap. $40. ISBN 978-0-8389-0925-6. LC 2006023915.

This new edition is based on recent research involving the developing brains of infants and toddlers indicating that they learn early and need to be given the opportunities to experience language through rhymes, songs, stories, movement, and visual stimulation. The author incorporates the concepts of emergent literacy and the practices of dialogic reading by involving children in the process of literacy development through sharing pictures, answering open-ended questions, predicting outcomes, and retelling the story. Nichols provides information based on her model of storytimes by covering planning considerations that include audience participation, physical location, themes, handouts, record-keeping, materials storage, and tips for troubleshooting. Extensive coverage of 50 programs is provided, including sample books, rhythms, rhymes and finger plays, parents’ follow-up ideas, crafts, a sign-language activity, and additional program notes. This offering of a wide selection of ideas is a useful addition for any librarian, educator, or parent who engages in toddler storytimes.–Rebecca Sheridan, Easttown Library & Information Center, Berwyn, PA
School Library Journal 10/1/2007 ( )