The Toddler Tourist: Exploring Hidden Gems in Your Own Backyard
Winter has many perks. We do love the outdoor time. We love to skate, sled, create with snow, and do all the things. But sometimes we can’t get outdoors. This is the north, the weather is unpredictable, and it can be very cold. Sometimes I just don’t feel like getting outdoors. The truth is, getting kids in and out of snowsuits for five minutes of fresh air is hard work.
So, how can we entertain our kids when we are feeling fair-weathered? A trip to the library will do. In fact, the Orillia Public Library has already solved this problem for me. Say hello to Library Adventure Kits. Maybe you’ve found these already. Maybe this is a new concept for you. Regardless, it is genius.
Make your way to the library and head to the Family Department. There you’ll find loads of fun and interactive activities onsite. This is always a great outing, whether you have half an hour or two hours. As you would check out a library book, you can also sign out Adventure Kits.
Each one is unique and is tailored to a specific subject matter. It allows kids to explore subject matter they are curious about. Skateboards, yoga mats, Lego bins and more! Kits also pair with curriculum so they are great for teachers who want to beef up their literacy, math, STEM programs or Truth and Reconciliation efforts.
We signed one out that was about lifecycles. Inside were books and activities to do, all from home. There were manipulatives to act out the lifecycle of a frog and butterfly, a magnifying glass, binoculars to do spotting out in nature and different puzzles. Matching exoskeleton x-rays to the bugs was a fun concept too. These kits promote literacy, but also engagement outdoors and in the community. We had so much fun taking this kit for a test run, we will be back for more!
The library is also further developing their Library of Things. Gone are the days of straight up book borrowing. Your winter will be more interesting as you can sign-out various types of…well, things. You can borrow a light therapy lamp, snowshoes, puzzles, seeds…the world is at your fingertips and is only a library card away.
As Arthur the Aardvark once said, “Having fun isn’t hard, when you have a library card.” Enjoy the library this winter and as we dream of spring, the Toddler Tourist will be out and about once more bringing you the free fun across our region.
