Museum Inspired Grab & Go Bags!

A post from Ms. Lorraine.

With many museums closed for public visitation, I thought we could have fun and learn with STEAM activities connected to some of the museums we have library passes for, thus keeping them in our hearts until we can visit in person. 

Using very few supplies, we can create and experiment with ideas I’ve researched and modified. 

Most of their websites have a variety of virtual offerings, as well, depending on your desires to learn or just have fun. 

OK, so what is all the fuss about STEM/STEAM?, you may ask.  What’s the difference between STEM and STEAM? And just what makes STEM/STEAM learning important? Let me share what I have learned.

Science encourages investigation and answering questions, often involving experimentation.

Technology refers to using simple tools like crayons and rulers, as well as more complex ones like microscopes and computers

Engineering refers to recognizing problems and testing solutions

Arts encourage creativity and allows children to illustrate concepts they are learning

Mathematics deals with numbers, but also patterns, shapes, organizational skills and much more

The main difference between STEM and STEAM is STEM explicitly focuses on scientific concepts.  STEM represents science, technology, engineering and math, while STEAM adds in the arts – humanities, language arts, dance, drama, music, visual arts, design and new media.

STEM and STEAM learning are both very important because these five disciplines are used in everyday activities. They promote problem solving, innovation, and creative and analytical thinking. STEM disciplines are a growing part of our economy.  Including the A for Arts helps us remember the importance of personal expression and creativity as well.   

So let the fun and learning begin!

Look for our Grab-N-Go Bucket on the Front porch starting January 5th!

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

What a great way to get your child ready for Kindergarten, and for a lifetime of enjoying books!  If you read just one book a day with your child, that's 365 books in a year.  Before you and your child know it, you'll have 1,000 books read.  

Conshohocken Free Library and MCNPL have a program designed to help for families with kids up to age 5 (or Kindergarten age) keep track of their reading.  Register for the challenge at http://mcnpl.beanstack.org, and then log your books.  This is the same platform we used for the Summer Reading Program online this year, and it's really easy to use.  You can log your reading on a computer or through the app on a mobile device. And YES, repeat reads count!  

Your child will reach milestones when you read 1 book, 25 books, 100 books, 250 books, 500 books, and 1,000 books.  Once you reach each milestone, come visit us at the Conshohocken Free Library for a special reward.  Conshy Kids who read the most books will have their names featured on a Wall of Fame at the library!  

We already have a few names for our wall--will the next one be YOURS?

Join the challenge at http://mcnpl.beanstack.org!

Special virtual programs for October

 

A post from Sydney

Thanks to a donation from ASTM International, the library is happy to be able to provide special programs this month focusing on our younger patrons.  These are stressful times for all of us, and we hope to help by giving kids a chance to express themselves creatively, and to keep themselves grounded physically and emotionally.  

We hope to see you at some of these exciting programs!  Register by clicking on the links below.

Creative Practices Virtual Art Programs with Amy Grebe, Tuesdays through October 27, 7PM
We have three sessions for grades K-4 and three more for grades 5-8. Sign up for one or for all in your age groups, and if you are "on the cusp" you may want to sign up for both age groups!  Design a mandala, weave a wall-hanging, learn how to bind your own journal, use recycled cardboard as an artistic medium ... there are so many ways to be creative!  Register to get the Zoom link and call the library to arrange pick up of your materials packets.

Little Yogis, with yoga home.  Wednesdays in October, 10AM
Even our littlest yogis find the physical, mental and emotional benefits of a yoga practice!  From stretching and strengthening immune systems to creating great sense of calm to boosting confidence, yoga can support your little one their development.  Using age appropriate games and storytelling, this class will give your child tools to help regulate their nervous systems in these uncertain times.  

The instructor, Allison Gold Russell, brings her Next Generation Kids Yoga training, parenting experience and joy of teaching to her classes.  Little Yogis is designed for children walking to pre-k.

Yoga for Teens, with yoga home.  Thursdays, starting October 8, 7PM
Recommended ages 12-16.  Students will practice movement to enhance flexibility, coordination, and more! We will also focus on breathing techniques and relaxation each class. Yoga taps into both the mind and body and allows us to act in a way that honors the best version of who we are.  Yoga can build self-confidence, connect you with your community and relieve stress.  

The instructor, Jennifer McCracken, brings her expertise as an educator, yoga and fitness enthusiast to her teaching.