This morning, Kendra Jones and Brooke Newberry shared ways to use up-cycling, white columns, and even windows during their presentation titled: Oh Baby!: Unconventional Programming for Your Youngest Patrons. For example, a taped, resealable bag filled with washable, nontoxic paint provides children with a sensory experience and teaches them about colors. When displayed on a window, the bag takes on an almost stained glass appearance. Another idea shared was using white columns for an interactive display, such as mailboxes for popular children’s book characters.
Once the topic of cleaning came up, participants in the chat shared that a spray bottle consisting of vinegar, water, and essential oil, if desired, is a quick, nontoxic way to clean plastic toys.
Kendra encouraged exploring ideas and suggested that even if a program turns out unsuccessful, it is still an opportunity to learn and improve. I loved how inclusive the program ideas were and that they are a few of many ways to encourage self-discovery in children.