Snail Storytime Book List & Activities

A tiny snail joined us at the library today. He brought party hats for the children to wear, and handed them out as they gathered for storytime. The children were excited to hear Snail tell tales of his grand adventures.

Slow Down and Read: Our Favorite Snail Picture Books

1. Snail Crossing by Corey R. Tabor
2. Escargot by Dashka Slater and Sydney Hanson
3. How to Party Like a Snail by Naseem Hrab and Kelly Collier

Snail held a captive audience. The children were on the edge of their seats as Snail told them of the time he courageously tried to cross the road to get to the field of crisp cabbage (1). They giggled to one another when Snail told the story of the first time he ever tasted a carrot. And they assured him that yes, snails were their favorite animal (2).

Snail shared all the quiet things he loves about parties and how, sometimes, things get too much and too loud and he shrinks back into his shell (3). A hush fell over the children. They leaned in close. Snail took his time telling the story.

Snail-Approved Party Food

After storytime, the party began. The snacks were inspired by the tales and included all of Snail’s favorite things. There were carrot sticks with dip, snail pinwheel sandwiches, and mugs filled with milk. 

We used our Orchard & Hive “Snail Party Pattern” for the tablecloth and napkins. Our special guest loved them, and so did the children!

Slow and Steady Party Games for Kids

At last, it was time to begin the party games. We played a slow-motion version of musical chairs to the gentle sound of Snail’s favorite lullabies. The children crept, slow as molasses, around the circle of chairs, lullaby after lullaby, until only one chair was left! Then, they bundled up in sleeping bags and ran a sack race, seeing how slow they could go. The last team to cross the finish line, won!

Before we closed, I asked the children what they learned from Snail and his stories. One said, “That it’s okay to go slow.” Another whispered, “That quiet things can be magical.”

Until next time, happy reading!
Granny Smith