Recently in story time, we sang the classic song "If You're Happy and You Know It." I realized that whenever we sing that song, I join in before I even ask myself, "am I happy right now?" It might sound silly, but understanding complex feelings can be as challenging for grown-ups as it is for…
Hands on Sculpture
When we were kids, my brother loved building things. He used toys like blocks and LEGO bricks, but he also built things out of just about anything he could get his hands on. I was more interested in art than building. We never realized that making a sculpture was the perfect way for us to…
Mix it Up!
When I open a new box of crayons I love thinking about each color's story. I look at the color and think about how someone mixed it, what they called it and how I feel about it. What if I could make my own colors? People have invented colors made from plants, gems, metal…
Art in Nature
Have you ever felt a little intimidated to do art with your child? Me too! I’ve learned that the best creative moments happen when little ones are allowed to explore freely. Exploring and creating are more important than the finished product, so follow your child’s lead. When in doubt, go outside. Try using nature to…
Draw a Song
Has listening to music ever made you feel strong emotions? It happens to me all the time, but especially when it’s an Olympic year. Every time I hear the beginning of the Olympic Fanfare, I get goosebumps and feel excited! One my favorite things about enjoying all kinds of art is that it can bring…
Play with the Three Little Pigs
One of my favorite fables is the three little pigs. I love to think about all the other things besides sticks, stones and bricks that the pigs could have used to build their houses! Would spaghetti, play dough or books have been strong enough to stand up to the wolf's huffing and puffing? Books What…
Use Your Senses, Explore Your World
I love exploring Chicago using my five senses! I see, hear, smell, taste and feel so much here in our city, especially in the summer. Every morning I hear the sound of the 'L' train rushing by my window. When I go outside, I feel the breeze from the wind. I love to see all…
Touching the Sky: Learn About Skyscrapers
Did you know that famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed a mile-high skyscraper almost 65 years ago? Modern skyscrapers aren’t even that high yet but they are getting closer. Librarians Janet from the West Belmont Branch and Rebecca from the Lincoln Park Branch love skyscrapers. Read on for their suggestions on how to reach for…
Code Builders: Create Virtual Buildings
The worlds of computer programming and architecture are very similar. While architects design buildings from the ground up, computer programmers create “building blocks” known as code for computers and robots that allow them to function correctly. Librarian Aldo from the Thomas Hughes Children's Library at Harold Washington Library Center suggests these fun activities to help…
Getting Around Town: Learn About Public Transit
There are so many different ways to get around our city! Many people choose to use public transportation—or transit—instead of walking or driving. Public transportation includes buses, subways and 'L' trains. Public transportation is good for the environment because when many people travel in one vehicle, there are fewer cars on the road. That results…
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