This week, we take a look at the importance of community. Being a part of a community involves learning about and supporting the people who live and work around us. I encourage you to take a walk around your community and use the information you gather to make a 3D map (instructions below). And of course, you're always a part of our Library community—we'd love to see you at one of our programs!
#READ: My Two Border Towns by David Bowles
A boy and his father cross the United States-Mexico border every other Saturday, visiting their favorite places, spending time with family and friends, and sharing in the responsibility of community care.
Questions to think about while you read:
- Have you ever gone with a family member to run errands? What are the kinds of places you go?
- The boy in the story isn't getting items for just himself and his family. Who else is he getting things for and why do you think he does this?
- Have you played or visited with children who aren't from your neighborhood or school? What did you learn about them? What did you share about yourself?
#PLAY: Community Buildings Bingo
Go for a walk with family members and/or friends (be careful of traffic!) and pay attention to the types of buildings in your community. Are you near a store? Post office? School? Library? See if you can get four in a row for Bingo! Keep track of the types of buildings you see. If possible, take a picture of them, then re-create your neighborhood in the activity below.
#EXPLORE: Create Your Community
Re-create aspects of your community you discovered on your neighborhood walk, such as a grocery store, a bakery, a library, a fire station, school, etc. If you were able to take pictures, use those to guide your design.
Supplies:
- Paper lunch bags
- Newspaper or recycled paper or plastic bags
- Stapler
- Construction paper
- Scissors
- Tape
- Markers or crayons
Instructions:
- While the paper bags are flat, draw features on them like doors and windows with markers or crayons.
- Stuff the bags with newspaper, recycled paper, or recycled plastic bags; use the stapler to seal shut.
- Use scissors to cut construction paper to be awnings, window shutters, doors, and other features on the buildings.
- When you've finished making the buildings, re-create your neighborhood community by arranging them into a 3-D map.
#JOIN: Attend a program virtually or in person!
View all school age programs and events offered this week.
For virtual programs, registration is required to receive the Zoom link; use the link in the program information to register.
For in-person programs, registration is required; if space allows, walk-ins will be admitted. Use the link in the program information to register.
