Description: Role-Playing Games (RPGs) are increasingly used in therapy and education as a means of personal exploration and empowerment. Through RPGs, youth are able to explore self-expression and identity, build community, and grow their interpersonal skills and confidence. Utilizing these principles, MCPL’s RPG programs encourage teens to find their own power, take on leadership roles in their community, and encourage others to do likewise. During this workshop, we will share with attendees strategies for developing a vibrant teen community, fostering teen ownership of programming, and providing a safe and encouraging environment for youth to explore their own skills.
Children & Teens TitleTalk from Baker & Taylor
Presenter(s): Grace Larochelle
Description: Coming Soon!
Dramatic Play: Getting Started
Presenter(s): Kara Motsinger
Description: My library has been offering dramatic play within the children's department at our main and branch libraries since 2016. After attending a workshop led by Lisa Murphy, the Ooey Gooey Lady, I dove into the concept of dramatic play and how to offer a rotation of themes that would allow children to explore and engage in meaningful learning through play! I will share a brief overview of things to consider when getting started with using dramatic play in a library space. I will talk about various considerations for themes, number of pieces, cleaning items, storing items, etc. Content would include photos of various themes and setups in our modest library space. I would also share a resource list of reliable toys, manipulatives, cleaning supplies, storage options, furniture and flexible seating.
Do I Have to Read the Whole Book? Book Clubs for 5-10 Year Olds
Presenter(s): Megan McCain
Description: Book clubs for school-age children can be remarkably beneficial, fostering a love of reading and building critical thinking skills. When guided by librarians, who thoughtfully select books and foster an engaging environment, these book clubs can significantly broaden the horizons of the readers and enrich children's reading experiences. Using real world examples from the presenter’s three school-age book clubs, discussion topics for this session will include: Age of Participants; The Librarian’s Role including organizing meetings, leading discussions, providing resources and creating activities; Choosing Books including diverse genres, student input, and age-appropriateness; and measuring success including participation rates, feedback surveys and community impact.
Hosting a Writer's Workshop for Elementary Ages at Your Library
Presenter(s): Kim Howard
Description: Help encourage the youngest writers through hosting a Writer’s Workshop at your library. Leave this session with everything you need to host a Writer’s Workshop of your own, down to the ice breaker activities you can use to kick things off! This session includes a detailed plan for your Writer’s Workshop, whether you want to host a one-day event or a series of sessions. You’ll also have access to all participant handouts you need. Join children’s author and Writer’s Workshop presenter Kim Howard for fun and engaging ways to inspire future authors!
