We received comments from parents and other caregivers about the workshops and how they learned a lot about their children. One mother of twins (14 mo) who attended the workshops made a special trip to the library to let me know how much she learned about her girls, what they liked, how they communicate with other babies, and especially what toys they preferred. The workshops help inform their decisions on which toys to purchase for home use.
A grandmother who came to workshops, has said how important the workshops with the consistent group of kids and adults has been for her grandson's socializing and development. She has brought her grandson to multiple programs/events and has engaged the child's parents to do the same.
A grandmother who had concerns about her grandson's development was able to talk to professionals at the workshops and subsequently made arrangements to reach out to babynet to get assessed for speech concerns.
We have multiple families who were unable to come to workshops, but regularly come to use the playspace. Caregivers have made comments that the children look forward to coming to the library to play with the toys and see friends.
When we don't have an active workshop, we have also offered drop-in playtime, where caregivers and children can use the workshop space and toys, with library staff on hand to answer questions and do a short circle time. This has been a popular option especially when the weather is bad. It has been very popular with the nanny and au-pair community and the children they care for.