Sensory Storytime at Bethesda

Sensory Storytime at Bethesda Elementary: A Heartwarming First

At Book Harvest, we believe in the power of books and stories to spark joy, imagination, and learning for every child. Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Bethesda Elementary to host a sensory storytime for their EC Pre-K class — and what an unforgettable day it was!

The opportunity came when Bethesda’s media coordinator reached out to us after hearing about our sensory storytime programs. She shared that the EC Pre-K students often don’t have the same opportunities as their peers to participate in activities like storytime.

With colorful scarves, sensory globes, and two beautifully curated books — My Brain is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration by Prasha Sooful and My Ocean is Blue by Darren Lebeuf — our team created an engaging experience designed especially for these young learners. These books are a testament to Book Harvest’s commitment to "Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors," ensuring that all children see themselves and others reflected in books. Through these titles, we highlighted neurodiversity in ways that enhanced the stories, weaving in sensory exercises that invited the children to use sight, sound, touch, and even imagination. Literacy became a multisensory journey, enriching their understanding and processing of the world around them.

The kids lit up with excitement as they followed along with the stories, exploring textures, movements, and sounds that complemented the narrative. It wasn’t just a storytime — it was an immersive adventure into the world of books!

The highlight of the day? Watching these little ones step into the media center for the very first time. Seeing their eyes widen as they took in the colorful shelves and vibrant displays was a reminder of why we do what we do. Each child got to take home two books to continue their reading journey and a sensory globe to enjoy and explore.

This day was about more than books; it was about creating equity and ensuring that every child, regardless of ability or circumstance, feels the magic of a story and the empowerment that comes with being a reader.

We’re so grateful to the media coordinator for reaching out and to the team members who made this day possible. Moments like these fuel our mission and remind us of the boundless potential that lies in every child when given access to the right resources.