Dinosaur Puppets in Fremont

This has got to be one of my favorite crafts for young children!  They are all so excited to create their very own dinosaur, and are amazed when all the pieces they colored and designed turn into a giant dinosaur puppet.  The kids ages 3-9 here were no exception.  I think the parents are just as thrilled as the children too!

Around the World Art in Pleasanton

This trip the children learned about the Herichol Indians in South America and how they used art to tell stories.  The kids really enjoyed this art form, and made some impressive pieces.

Candy Magnets at Irvington and Niles

Clay and kids, an awesome combination!  The children enjoyed creating candy and many other items from the clay provided.  This is such a popular art form.  I love this clay because it leaves no mess behind!

Photo Display Cube

In Fremont last night, a group of ladies created their own wooden photo cubes to display a special picture.  Many created a gift for another, some for themselves.  They had a delightful time creating in an adult atmosphere, as well as getting to spend time socializing with other women.  Each one left delighted that they came!  This is also a great crafting time for tweens and teens.

African Masks and Zulu Oops Baskets in Pleasanton

This was a great crafting time!  The younger kids loved making their own African masks and learning about different parts of Africa including South Africa from Rene, the librarian.  The older children also learned about Africa while creating their own Zulu Oops baskets.  Enjoy their creativity!

Shrinky Dinks at the East Palo Alto Library

Some of the children today weren't too thrilled to be forced to do a craft but once they got started, boy did they have a great time!!  Lots of wonderful art work and each child loved, loved, loved watching the art shrink! We discussed how hot it was in the oven, and the children were deciding if they could tolerate that heat. We talked about planets since we were talking about heat, and then they told me all they knew about how long it takes to get to the hottest planets.  Lots of learning going on while we created these masterpieces!  The one boy who was very difficult in the beginning, ended up taking home almost all the beads on his necklace and didn't want the day to end.  I love how art can soften a heart.

Roamin' Reptiles

This program was such a hit with boys and girls alike.  The children colored their wooden reptiles, then made habitats for them to live in.  They took the entire hour designing and diligently working to create their friend's new home! One mom was so surprised at the time and care her young son took, that she will now break out supplies for him to do art at home. Yay!  We used a lot of recycle material to show the kids ways to use their clean trash as well.  I enjoyed meeting the new librarians at Atherton at well.  Welcome Veronica, and Alejandro!