This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Cold weather and school vacation can either mean lots of fun and great memories or bored kids and frustrated parents. Don’t worry, though, because the Longmont Public Library has another agenda of great programs for kids and teens over the holiday break.
The fun starts as soon as vacation begins on Friday, December 20 with another round of Winter Break Reading Bingo for Kids and Teens. This annual program challenges kids and teens of all ages to read, watch, and listen to new things over the school break and win prizes. Players can stop by the Children’s and Teens’ desk to pick up a bingo card or print one online. No registration is required, and all players who submit a completed bingo card by January 6 will receive a special prize.
With studies showing that video and online gaming can improve spatial and problem solving skills and create community for some young people, the Library has purchased a new Nintendo Switch gaming system for its tween and teen patrons. To celebrate, students in 6th through 12th grades are invited to a “Nintendo Switch Launch Party” on Monday, December 23, from 1 to 5 pm. Partygoers will get to sample the new system, meet other gamers, and enjoy some snacks at this drop-in event during the school break. No registration is required.
Monday, December 30 offers two different programs to keep kids and their families busy. The first is a Drop-in Winter Craft Time from 2 to 4 pm where children of all ages are invited to drop by the Craft Room for a fun make-and-take winter craft. The craft project should take about 20 minutes to complete, and younger children may need assistance from a helpful adult. No registration is required; just stop by!
Later in the evening, from 6 to 7 pm on Monday, December 30, join us for another kind of bingo -- ¡Lotería Mexicana! This bilingual program features traditional Mexican bingo using chocolate for “money.” Prizes include bilingual books and treats from local Mexican markets. All ages are welcome at this family event, and no registration is required.
On Tuesday, December 31, kids of all ages are invited to drop by the Library between 11 am and 3 pm and build for a while with our giant LEGO collection. Children ages 8 and younger must be accompanied by an adult companion while building, but no registration is necessary.
Finally, on Friday, January 3, from 11 am to 3 pm, readers in grades K through 12 are invited to spend a cozy afternoon reading, lounging around, and soaking up the last bit of winter break before school starts again at the Library’s annual Winter Break Read-in for Kids & Teens. All readers are welcome, but children aged 8 and younger must be accompanied by a dedicated adult. No registration is required, and you can bring your favorite book or find a new one.
Don’t get bored this Winter Break – get into the Library and into some fun!
