Changing of the guard for children’s library program

A popular regular Glenelg Libraries program is about to make its 2024 return and Heywood and Casterton residents are going to notice a significant change this year.

Rhythm and Rhymes Café is a 45-minute session of music, stories and songs aimed at the 0-2 age group which runs monthly at the Heywood and Casterton libraries.

First started in 2023, Rhythm and Rhymes has proved a hit with young ones and parents alike, its relaxed, informal atmosphere lending itself to that.

After 15 minutes where everyone interacts in the session, parents and carers can grab some morning or afternoon tea and socialise while the young ones continue.

Rhythm and Rhymes will return for 2024 on Tuesday, February 20, at 10.30am at Heywood library and 2pm at Casterton.

This year there’ll be a new face at the helm – Glenelg Shire Council Child and Youth Services Library Officer Jane Killmister takes over from Neysa Sutherland, who started the program last year.

But as a special treat Neysa will also be on hand for the first session as Jane takes the reins.

And Jane loves her music.

“Would you judge me if I admit to having the kids’ playlist on in the car, long after dropping the kids off at school,” she said.

A favourite song?

“Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes is a catchy rhyme with actions that everyone knows. We’re a competitive family, so it’s always a race to see who can finish the song first without mixing up the actions.”

So how does she plan to create an engaging and welcoming environment for families at Rhythm and Rhymes?

“A teacher once told me to sing ‘Rhubarb’ if you forget the words,” she said.

“I think this equally applies to Rhythm and Rhymes Café. The best tip I have is to forget yourself, enjoy the music. Clap your hands, tap your toes, whistle – just have a go at joining in.”

On a more serious side Jane knows the importance of her role – and that of Rhythm and Rhymes – in shaping a child’s early literacy and lifelong learning habits.

“Making learning fun is key,” she said.

“Gaining language through rhyme, music and actions boosts confidence, encourages participation, sparks the imagination, and creates memory pathways that can set young people up for a lifelong love of music, books and literacy.”

On a more serious side Jane knows the importance of her role – and that of Rhythm and Rhymes – in shaping a child’s early literacy and lifelong learning habits.

“Making learning fun is key,” she said.

“Gaining language through rhyme, music and actions boosts confidence, encourages participation, sparks the imagination, and creates memory pathways that can set young people up for a lifelong love of music, books and literacy.