GENERAL:
Q: Does a library have to host Sing Me A Story?
A: No! Any person or institution can host a Sing Me A Story workshop. If you’re interested in doing a smaller workshop for your staff, please be in touch to talk about options.
Q: How much does a workshop cost?
A: The in-person three-hour workshop includes registration, outreach materials, outreach support, pre-survey and post evaluation, and access to printed and online resources. Travel outside of a 30-minute radius of Gorham Maine require .62 cents per mile.
Click HERE for pricing.
Q: How are you handling COVID?
A: I am keeping an eye on community transmission levels and work with the hosting organization to follow their protocols. Whenever possible, SMAS can be held outside (as I don’t require electricity, only a circle of chairs), or in well-ventilated spaces where we can space ourselves out (another reason why I’m keeping group size small).
I also encourage mask-wearing for anyone who’d feel more comfortable. As always, please don’t attend if you’re feeling under the weather!
HOSTING:
Q: Do I have to be a library to host a SMAS workshop?
A: No! This model was envisioned around libraries because they are a hub in the community and are already doing so much to promote early literacy skills. But this workshop can be hosted by any person or organization.
Q: How to I fund bringing a workshop to my library or organization?
A: Get in touch with me and ask! I’m willing to help talk through possibilities and solutions to any challenges.
There are three ways to fund a SMAS workshop:
1) Use funds from your institution’s professional development budget
2) Split the cost between participating organizations or participants, making it affordable for all
3) Write a grant to bring the program to your institution. Emilia is happy to help support this process!
PARTICIPATING:
Q: How much singing experience do I need to have to participate?
A: People of varying abilities take this workshop and it’s designed to have something for everyone! I’m particularly interested in working with people who aren’t entirely comfortable singing or don’t have a lot of experience leading song and do my best to make folks feel comfortable and supported. If you have a lot of experience, I encourage you to share it! And I want you to leave with new songs and ideas you can employ right away.
Q: What’s a workshop like?
A: Sing Me A Story is much like a singalong. Participants experience and learn the topics we cover by participating like the children they work with, in addition to dialogue. I provide some handouts as well.