Have you wondered why something works the way it does? Or do you have a better way to do something? A lot can come from really studying the world around you. February is African American History Month, and in this week’s programs, we'll learn how the uniqueness and talent of African-American scientists, inventors, and artists brought about many wonderful things. Hopefully, you'll be inspired to create something amazing!
READ: Frankie Sparks and the Lucky Charm by Megan Frazer Blakemore
Frankie does not believe in leprechauns, but her best friend, Maya, claims that there is one living in her backyard; so Frankie builds a leprechaun trap to prove her point--but soon begins to doubt the validity of her own experiment.
PLAY: Observation Game
Scientists and artists develop good observation skills. This game will help you and some friends and/or family members train your eyes to not miss anything! This is for two or more players.
Supplies:
- Random items from around the house
- Tablecloth, dish towel, piece of fabric, etc.
- Timer
- Pencil and paper for each participant
To play:
- Arrange the items on a table; be random, not organized. Cover them with the cloth.
- Tell players they will have one minute to look at the things on the table and then you will put the cloth back.
- Once things are covered again, have the players write down a list of what was on the table. How many do they remember?
Play at different times with different numbers and kinds of things. Do players get better? To make it easier for younger players, allow more time and/or use fewer objects. To make it more challenging, use more objects and/or less time.
EXPLORE: Create Object Art
Take a minute to explore the world around you, and collect a handful of everyday items. These can be ANYTHING... keys, a fruit peel, a smooth stone, a straw, a paperclip... anything that catches your eye.
Start with one item of your choosing, and place it on a piece of paper. Think about the shape of the item and how it can be related to another object. Let your imagination guide you. Use a pencil, marker, or crayon to draw an image that includes your item. As seen in the examples, you can turn a paperclip into a butterfly's body or a clothespin into a duck's bill...the possibilities are endless!
JOIN: Attend a program virtually or in person!
For virtual programs, registration is required to receive the Zoom link; use the links below to register and find out more details about the programs, including days, times, and needed supplies.
For in person programs, registration is required; if space allows, walk-ins will be admitted. Use the links below to register and find out more details about the programs, including locations, days, and times.
Junior Scientists
If your child is into science, technology, engineering and math (or if they would like to be), this is the time for them to shine. Read or talk through a STEM book with us and then we’ll do a STEM-based activity together.
This program is similar to the in-person Jr. Scientists program, but is held earlier in the day for families with flexible learning schedules.
Junior Artists
Does your child learn best with paint, paper, popsicle sticks and glue? Add in a book and some games and you’ve got the perfect program for your young artist. Get ready to dive into an imaginative adventure with this week’s book, then create along with us as we build a masterpiece!
This program is similar to the in-person Jr. Artists program, but is held earlier in the day for families with flexible learning schedules.
Junior Readers
Does your child light up when they really connect to a story? Junior Readers brings picture books to life with drama activities and non-fiction connections. Come read with us as we explore some amazing stories and make literacy connections.
