Bilingual Storytimes: Arabic with Jemima Shafei-Ongu

Join Jemima Shafei-Ongu for a warm, bilingual storytime that blends Arabic and English storytelling with traditional music. This session is crafted for families with young children and offers a gentle introduction to language, rhythm and cultural connection in a friendly library setting.

What to Expect

Expect an engaging, family-friendly session of stories and songs where language learning feels natural and playful. Jemima uses both Arabic and English so children hear the rhythm of a second language while enjoying bright storytelling and music.

Parents can anticipate an interactive session with call-and-response songs, simple instruments and opportunities for children to join in. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, designed for preschoolers and school-aged children to feel included and curious.

The session celebrates International Mother Language Day with traditional Arabic music and instruments, making it a lovely cultural experience for families in North Sydney. This bilingual storytime is ideal for parents who value language exposure, literacy development and cultural play for their kids.

Activity Details

This is a free library event suitable for toddlers, preschoolers and early primary school children, and it runs for approximately one hour. It’s presented in both Arabic and English to support language learning and cultural appreciation.

- Age suitability: preschool to early primary school (approx. ages 2–7)

- Duration: around 60 minutes

- Languages: Arabic and English; songs and instruments included

No booking is required for individual families, but larger groups such as mother’s groups or preschools are asked to contact the library in advance to confirm space. The session will be held on the Lower Ground Floor and is accessible via lift.

Location and Access

The event takes place at Stanton Library, 234 Miller Street, North Sydney — a convenient, central community library ideal for a quick morning outing. It’s an easy trip for families across North Sydney and nearby suburbs, and close to public transport routes.

The storytime is on the Lower Ground Floor and is accessible for people using mobility aids via lift, making it comfortable for families with prams or carers. There is limited parking nearby, so public transport or a short walk is recommended where possible.

Arrive a few minutes early to find a spot and settle little ones; library staff are friendly and can point you to toilets, pram parking and family amenities. This makes the session stress-free for parents juggling school runs or morning routines.

Important Information

This event is free and celebrates International Mother Language Day, welcoming children of all language backgrounds to enjoy stories, songs and cultural music. It is designed to be inclusive and engaging for families seeking literacy and language-rich activities.

For mother’s groups, preschools or larger groups, the library asks you to email their contact team to ensure space is available. Please check the Stanton Library website for the latest contact details and accessibility information before attending.

The session is child-focused and interactive; parents should plan to stay with their children for supervision and participation. Bring a small blanket or cushion if you prefer to sit on the floor, and encourage children to join the songs and actions for the best experience.

Booking and Prices

Cost: Free. There is no charge for this bilingual storytime, making it an excellent, budget-friendly outing for families and caregivers. The library aims to make early literacy and cultural experiences widely accessible.

No booking is required for individual families — just turn up on the day. For larger groups such as preschools or organised mother’s groups, please contact the library ahead of time to confirm space and arrangements.

If you plan to come with a group or have access requirements, check Stanton Library’s online event page or contact their staff for details. Arriving 10–15 minutes early helps secure seating and gives children time to relax before the session starts.