Have you ever stopped to think about how great trees are? Not only do they provide shade from the sun, they also offer protection and to plants and animals. Some trees even grow food (fruits, nuts, and seeds) for animals (and us!) to eat. This week we'll explore all the amazing things trees do!
#READ: The Last Tree by Ingrid Chabbert, Raúl Nieto Guridi
A small boy lived in a city with no grass or trees. "Instead," he says, "we had roads, walls and lots of other ugly things." One day, the boy and his friend were amazed to discover a tiny sapling growing behind a low wall. They had never seen a tree and they imagined how majestic it would be someday. When they found out a condominium was to be built where their tree lived, the boys knew they had to dig it up and replant it. They had to save the last tree. A poignant story about hope and the importance of nature.
#PLAY: How Old Is That Tree? – A Guessing Game
Supplies:
- Measuring tape
- Paper (to record guesses)
- Writing implement (pencil, pen, marker, etc.)
Instructions:
- Find a tree that is at least as tall as a grown up.
- Have everyone record their guess for how old they think the tree is based on its size.
- Measure the tree by wrapping the measuring tape around the widest part of the trunk. (This will take at least 2 people).
- The measurement of the circumference in inches is also the approximate age of the tree in years!
- Whoever guesses closest to the correct age-WINS!
Inspired by www.education.com
#EXPLORE: Make a Leaf Mobile
Supplies:
- Yarn
- Paint brush
- Paint
- Leaves
- Tree branch
- Tape
Instructions:
- Go on a nature walk and gather a stick and lots of different kinds of leaves.
- When you get home, wash and dry the leaves.
- Paint the leaves however you like, on both sides.
- Wrap yarn around the stick to decorate.
- Tie strings to the stick and tie or tape them to the leaves.
- Make a hanger for the branch from string; hang up and enjoy your leaf mobile!
#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.
Jax Student Poetry Contest
This year, Jacksonville will have existed as a city for 200 years! To celebrate the Jacksonville Bicentennial, the City is having a Jax Student Poetry Contest and you can enter to win!
The contest is for Grades 4-12 and the theme is “Looking back, moving forward.” The top three poems from three age groups will win cash prizes!
Submit your poems by April 30th to enter – find out more here: https://jaxpubliclibrary.org/blog/jax-student-poetry-contest
