Blogger Annaliese Melvin

Sense-ational Learning with Sensory Explorations

Blue bin filled with Lucky Charms cereal and two large, square ice cube trays. In the cereal, there is a laminated paper with various shapes on it that match the shapes of the charms.

Over the past few years, I have seen an increased interest in “sensory friendly” programming at libraries. This has included an influx of programs such as toddler explorations, sensory explorations, and more. Our library has spent the past few years reformatting, adapting, and implementing our seasonal “Sensory Explorations” program. Check out some of the highlights below! What Is It? Sensory Explorations is a program recommended for children aged 2-5 that is hands on, messy, fun. At its core, it is an opportunity for children to engage in tactile, early learning activities at the library. When hosting, I typically plan to incorporate at least five of the eight sensory systems. Yes, I did say eight! Most people learned about the “five senses” as being taste, smell, sight, touch, and sound. However, there are three additional systems we use every day that are lesser known: the proprioceptive system, vestibular system, and interoception….

Blogger Amy Steinbauer

The Art of Being a Trash-y Library Person

When I was a children’s librarian, I really loved trash. It was a vibe. Despite working for one of the wealthiest areas of my city, there was no funding for my programming. I did it all on my own, and I had to be frugal. I had to look at all my trash and find new purpose for it all, so that I didn’t have to spend too much of my hard-earned money on supplies. If you were to ask me now about it, I would insist that this was the wrong move. I shouldn’t have been spending my own money on this, but I had a zest for this and you couldn’t have stopped me.