DALLAS – A block party at the Back Mountain Memorial Library Feb. 18 brought youngsters out to enjoy blocks, figurines, animals and other props, all while learning about social relationships, spatial concepts and architecture.
Nadine Dreier, of Dallas, brought her three children, ages 6, 3 and 2, out to enjoy both the blocks and the educational environment of the library.
Dreier appreciates that the library provides a safe and positive children’s play area, which allows parents time to choose a book or two.
The block party, the first of several, was made possible by a grant recently received from the Office of Commonwealth Libraries through the Cruise into Kindergarten grant program.
“We just needed to commit to hold such events once a month,” said Janet Bauman, Children’s Librarian. “We were amazed and grateful for what we received, which is providing not only an opportunity for learning, but a great deal of color and fun.”
Parents were provided with open-ended questions to pose to their children to maximize learning during block play.
They were encouraged to ask, “How is that building like … ?” and “I wonder how … “
Other prompts included, “How can you connect those two blocks?” and “What do you need to complete your plan?”
Sara DeRosa, 12, had both a plan and a great deal of enthusiasm for her block project.
DeRosa brought her three beanie bears: Issy, Carmel and Fuzz, and carefully placed them in a sitting position in the midst of her block structure.
“You can also learn a lot about science, like gravity,” said DeRosa, picking up a block and letting it fall to the ground.
Mom Cindy DeRosa said her children, including son Ethan, 6, have always been exposed to blocks as an opportunity for both fun and learning.
DeRosa and other parents appreciated the event, highlighting that learning comes both through books and other methods.
Laura Plishka, Dallas, enjoyed the event with her sons John, 2, and James, 1.
The boys attend story time at the library and seem comfortable sitting on the floor, interacting with other children and using their imagination.
“This is a giraffe,” said John smiling, then quickly switching hands. “This is a gorilla.”
Although temperatures outside hovered at above 50 degrees, Bauman said the event provided an opportunity for families to beat the seasonal blues, after having remained close to the house during the winter season.
Bauman emphasized the community spirit of the library which provides opportunity for making friends, getting to know neighbors and learning for all ages.
