Loving the Library - Part 1

Hello, my name is Kristen, and I am addicted to the library.

It's the truth, friends. My kiddos and I spend as much time as possible at the library, and when we're not at the library, we're reading books from the library or making crafts that we got at the library. Carey and I always joke that we use every dollar of the library taxes that we pay every year, whether it's activities/programs for the kids or books/movies/music that we borrow for ourselves.

The library hosts lots of fun activities throughout the year, but they really pack their schedule over the summer, knowing that kids are home from school. Thankfully, most of the summer programs offered for kids of Abby's and Zach's ages welcome siblings, so I'm able to take both kids to lots of events.  Here are just a few of the great programs that we've attended this summer:

JumpBunch
Funny enough, Abby actually participated in a 10-week JumpBunch program at daycare last year. Coach Robin recognized Abby (who could forget a face that cute?!), and Abby had a blast playing the different sports.

Stretch!

Family Jamboree
Very similar to the Tot Music classes that both Abby and Zach attend, this program was led by two wonderful young ladies who sang songs, passed around musical instruments, and - perhaps most importantly - had bubbles and hand stamps!

Zach looking at the bubbles.

Abby modeling her music note hand stamp.

Family Fun Time
Open-ended play was a huge hit, especially with Abby, who tried out everything in the room. This was also a great opportunity to work on sharing and waiting patiently for our turn.

Big sister showing baby brother how the farm toy works

Tools!!

Robot Dreams
Stories about robots and making a robot craft? Abby was excited for days!

Aside from using glue, Abby's favorite part had to be using safety scissors.

Abby's finished robot. She couldn't wait to show daddy!

We've also been to countless story times and both kids have been participating in their age-appropriate book clubs. Abby has been devouring books this summer, with the two of us reading at least 45 minutes a day. I am so, SO happy that she is growing up with a love for books and reading. (My big sister was a bookworm when she was growing up, and I think she turned out pretty darn smart. So maybe someone is following in Aunt Katie's footsteps?) And I love that the library really does so much to encourage kids to read and learn, especially during the summer.

Tomorrow, I'll be sharing about one of our "unofficial" library projects: reading an entire book list of princess books. I'll also be sharing a few books off that list that, as a parent, I loved for the great messages that they shared.