{ family story time at pooh corner }

I took my 17-month-old daughter to her first Family Story Time at Pooh Corner in the Frances Morrison Central Library today. It felt as though I was introducing her to a lovely old friend.

My son and I used to enter the red door in the tree several times a month when he was younger. Unfortunately, the opportunities dwindled as he started preschool. I am thrilled to now experience this special space and time with my daughter. She absolutely loved it, too.

All ages are welcome to drop in for Family Story Time at Pooh Corner on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:30-11:15 a.m. There are also Sleepy Time Stories in the same space on Tuesdays from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

The talented librarians capture attentions with fun stories, catchy songs and a short film under a theme of the day. Although the content is always changing, children who frequently attend are able to settle in to the consistent rhythm of the program.

No one seems to miss the opportunity to hug Pooh Bear and his friends goodbye at the end.

Before or after, there are always other kids to play with {and fellow parents to chat with} around the mats in the well-appointed children's area. There are toys, puzzles, building blocks and, of course, loads of books to share.

I also like taking a peek at The Gallery on this same level, which always is featuring interesting collections of art, photography or historical artifacts.

Because I know you will need to visit it at some point, there are washrooms with kid-sized sinks and a nice baby changing area near the Pooh Corner exit. There are stairs and elevators up to the second floor and plenty of room to park strollers and drop coats and boots.

I am already looking forward to our next adventure to Pooh Corner. What about you?