We're going to get kicked out of the library.

[transformed]

I just wrote a post about my loud little 21m old....and another issue I am having-

When we go to the library I am unable to control the kids. I am too pregnant and they outnumber me.

My ds, 4, is ok-he usually knows how to behave-unless I give him red dye or something.

my dd 21 months is just a loud girl-she laughs loud, screams loud, crys loud, etc. She runs around the library and screams and laughs, etc.

I am so exausted by the end that i say to myself "I am not leaving the house until the baby is born."

I am sure they are going to kick me out at some point.

When I am checking out books and dd is running around, I look at the lady and say "I only have 2 hands!!!!"

DD is usualy a reader but she wants nothing to do with books at the library.:

Jenny

[bdavis337]

Ya know, when I was fat pregnant (just 10 short weeks ago!!), I totally avoided public places with my then-26 month old son. I just couldn't keep it all under wraps. So ya know, it's ok to hang out at home or in the backyard while you're too waddly to do anything about it. Because trust me, once baby arrives, you're not going anywhere for a while then either, b/c you still can't run w/baby strapped into the mei tai!

[delphiniumpansy]

Can you just put books on reserve and pick them up really fast or have your partner pick them up? That way, you get books but you don't have to worry about the chaos. Otherwise, I would not go if I were you.

[ThreeBeans]

A sling might be hard, but what about putting DD in a back carrier?

[BellinghamCrunchie]

Originally Posted by ThreeBeans

A sling might be hard, but what about putting DD in a back carrier?

Or even a stroller.

I have only one child (DD 30 mths). Even with one, we stopped going to the library when she was around 22 mths. Its unusual for a toddler to be able to follow library social conventions. Libraries just don't accommodate the needs of children who developmentally are at a place they need to run, jump, climb, and explore.

[LilyGrace]

I completely understand! When I was a clerk I used to walk over to the runners and keep them engaged with small games or learning how to wave to the fish until mom/dad was done. It's hard with only two hands!

Some things you can do -

I agree with the pps about using a stroller or putting books on hold. Also, if it's not busy, see if you can just hand your card and books to the clerk, and try to engage dd in a game of peek a boo, find the <insert color here> book, flipping through a book you've just checked out, or play simon says, or the finger play just learned at storytime...the clerks do understand, I promise, when things get a little out of hand or you can't have your full attention on them. Kids are a normal part of the library - even the loud ones. I think the only time we've commented to a parent was when their child was screaming and being ignored for 20-30 minutes while mom browsed.

[~*Guest]

I am right there with you! My dd1 actually ran all the way behind the counter and into one of the offices when dd2 was nexborn and I was trying to check out books. Since then, I take in the double stroller. It is huge, but I just strap them both in, give them both abook and get out of there as quickly as possible. Good luck!

[theretohere]

Personally, I'd stop going before I was ever actually asked to leave. I'm easily embarassed, though. I don't think I'd ever be able to come back to a place if that happened.

[carmel23]

Originally Posted by yellowpansy

Can you just put books on reserve and pick them up really fast or have your partner pick them up? That way, you get books but you don't have to worry about the chaos. Otherwise, I would not go if I were you.

Use your library's on-line services and reserve the books; they'll pull them and you just pick them up. Then you don't have to worry about finding the books and can hopefully keep everyone under control while you get the books...

If your library doesn't offer their catalog on-line, call the librarians. Ask them to look the books up and pull them for you if they can. The youth services librarian might be the most help.

hang in there...

[MtBikeLover]

No advice...but I can commiserate. I can't control my kids at the library either (and I'm not even pregnant). I just get in and get out as quick as possible. I went today and they were running up and down the aisles. Luckily they weren't making too much noise and no one was around. But I got what I needed and left.

[transformed]

I have been trying to actually entertain my kids latley so one thing we have tried is story time at the library! It works well for the 4 yr old, but its not like I can split them up and have a babysitter for the little one all the time.

I am struggling to find activitys that are appropriate for both kids....its hard!