Thursday, August 29, 2024

Kids and families can kick off fall with fun and educational programming available from the Fond du Lac Public Library. From a new chess club to artsy activities to informational events, the library will have something for everyone this month.

Starting in September, the library will team up with the Fond du Lac Literacy Coalition to bring the first in a series of Fall Reading Workshops for parents and caregivers. Each of the three monthly sessions will focus on a new topic around the theme of preparing young children for future success in school through literacy. These will be simple, practical strategies that anyone can undertake.

The first session, Tomorrow’s Readers: How to Read with Kids, will be held Monday, Sept. 23 at 1 p.m. in the Discovery Room. Caregivers and other adults with children in their lives are invited to learn about early childhood development and the importance of reading with kids. Participants will be advised on how to select developmentally appropriate books and receive tips on how to have the best reading experiences with kids. No registration necessary. The next sessions in the series will be held Oct. 23 and Nov. 20.

Other youth activities planned during September include:

  • Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Drop in to Homeschool Meet-up to connect with other homeschooled students and get to know library resources better.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. in the McLane Room: Drop into the first meeting of the FDLPL Rook Club. Chess players of all ages and abilities are invited for friendly gameplay; experienced players are encouraged to assist newer players.
  • Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 4:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Visit Crafty Kids to make your own soup can pencil holder. No registration required.
  • Monday, Sept. 16 at 4:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Join Maker Mondays to create a flashlight with everyday items. No registration required.
  • Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Families considering homeschooling for their children may visit Homeschooling 101 to hear from the Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association. The program will include an overview about homeschooling in Wisconsin, information about the association, and more. No registration required.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 4:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Visit with a trained therapy dog and practice your reading skills during Paws to Read. No registration required.
  • Saturday, Sept. 28 at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.: Youth ages 5-12 will learn to paint a fall bear during Paint-Along. Register now at calendar.fdlpl.org.

Teens, meanwhile, have plenty planned as well:

  • Monday, Sept. 9 through Sunday, Sept. 15: Register for a Browser’s Cache bag, complete with a checked-out book and more, that can be picked up later in the month. Theme: Our Heroes Academia.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 4:30 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Drop into Anime Afternoon to see a few episodes of anime and enjoy a few snacks. Cosplay is welcome. No registration required.
  • Thursday, Sept. 5 at 4:30 p.m. in the Teen Space at the library: Want to try out Magic the Gathering but don't know where to start? Join this Mischief & Magic beginner class to learn the basics and try out some pre-made decks. No registration required.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 4 p.m. in the Discovery Room: Drop into Play with Your Food this month to learn how to spice up some food and beverages. No registration required.
  • Thursday, Sept. 19 at 4:30 p.m. in the Teen Space: Get ready for a tabletop roleplaying adventure during Ready, Set, Roleplay. Bring your own Level 1 character or use one provided. All experience levels welcome. For grades 6-12. No registration required.