Play: This could get messy!

One of our favorite things to do at Play & Learn is to provide materials such as paint or shaving cream for children and their caregivers to explore. Some children recognize the material and dive right in, burying their hands up to the wrists or elbows, drawing, writing, or otherwise spreading the joy. For many children these are new experiences. At first they are tentative, watch the other children, perhaps wait for mom or grandpa to try it first. A few decide that they don't like the feel or the mess, but more often than not they choose to linger as long as time and space allow.

Ordinary paint can go a long way. But we also use home-made recipes like salt paint, puffy paint, or "goop." If you would like to try these at home, you might check library resources such as The Ultimate Book of Kids Concoctions, by John Thomas and Danita Page, or Pam Schiller's resource book series.

What about the mess? We provide smocks to (mostly) protect children's clothing, cover the floor when an outdoor space is not available, and generally expect that there will be some clean-up involved during and after the session. Meanwhile, the children and their grown-ups get to use their senses, build some vocabulary as they talk about what they are doing, practice their motor skills, and have a good time. We think it's worth it!

New Guides at mysapl.org

There's a new way to access information about Little Read Wagon, our programs and library resources. Visit the library webpage and our new set of guides! These, as well as all the other guides you will find there, will continue to grow with new topics and resources. So, please explore and enjoy!

Library PSA

Have you been to your local library lately? If not, here's a reminder of what you can find there.

Quotes from Evaluations

Participants in last Saturday's workshop were asked to write down one thing that they had learned. Here are some of the things they had to say:

"Today I learned the importance of reading and what I can do to get my children ready to read...I also learned about the importance of singing songs/rhyming and storytelling."

"I learned how to search on the library computer because I'm not familiar with it. Also, I learned new songs that I will be using with the children...Also the importance of referrals with ECI. Thank you."

"Today I learned how much information the library has to offer, because I did not know that this was here for the taking. Thank you."

"Today I learned that talking, singing, fingerplaying help a lot for reading skills. Now I can spend more time helping my two children... he can look at the pictures and ... my baby can look at the bright colors and feel the different textures."

"Good information on Early Childhood Intervention. Helpful info. on on-line resources."

"Exploring the library website is extensive. There is a lot of info. I had no idea!"

"I learned that there is a wealth of information on line for library needs, and you can find and reserve books, videos, etc. using the computer (if you have a library card!)."

First Teacher Workshop of 2009 is Done!

The Little Read Wagon has completed it's first teacher workshop of the new year! This year Little Read Wagon is focusing on phonological awareness, or the ability to hear and play with the smaller sounds in words. The January 24 workshop was held at the beautiful Igo Branch Library. In addition to the early childhood professionals, special guests were Adam Spana (SAPL Digital Services), Rose Obregon (Brighton School), Molly McCormick (Easter Seals) and Ramona Lucius (SAPL Office of Outreach).

Participants enjoyed presentations and created a variety of items to use in the classroom. Jingle bracelets, sand blocks, rhythm sticks, song books, and felt puppies were created, embellished and taken away. Each participant also received a certificate for 5 clock hours and a bag of children's books.

Registration for the next workshop opens on Monday, February 9, 2009. Remember to call early and leave a detailed message including your name, center/school name and a phone number. Your call will be returned to confirm your registration.

February Teacher Workshop

This year in our free early literacy workshops (for those who work with children five and younger), we will explore phonological awareness, Early Childhood Intervention and library resources.

Registration for the February teacher's workshop opens on Monday, February 9. A printable flyer is available here.