Virtual Program Recap 3

While the library is closed, we’re offering virtual program opportunities to learn at home on our Facebook page!

Over the past week we put together a variety of science and art activities you can do at home with some common supplies. Watch the videos below to see what each activity is, and download our instruction guides with additional resources online here.

Art Start: Leaf Rubbing Collage

This art project starts with a trip outside! Artists use crayons to rub patterns from found leaves onto a sheet of paper to explore textures. A great alternative to leaf rubbing is to use textured materials in various shapes and sizes, such as textured papers/ribbons, cut pieces of wallpaper and sandpaper.

Expand this activity by looking up information about the nature around you – what kind of tree did a particular leaf come from?

Perfect for ages 3+

Tiny Techies: Algorithms with Cards

Machines like phones, computers or robots, all use algorithms to tell them what to do. It is very important that their directions are clear and followed in order. During this Tiny Techies: Algorithms activity, you will build a grid and “code” to complete a puzzle!

Perfect for ages 3+

Art Start: Rainbow Collage

Delight passersby with a rainbow in your window! In this Rainbow Collage activity, you’ll use your creativity to design a rainbow using supplies around your house and explore color.

While your child is working on their collage, ask them questions about their art: – What color is this? – How many (color) pieces do we have? How many do you want to add to the rainbow? – What else in our home is this color?

Perfect for ages 3+

Art Start: Window Aquarium

Bring the sea to you! In this Art Start: Window Aquarium activity, you’ll work together to create a hanging “aquarium” in a window in your house using household craft supplies. Create creatures you already know about, or make something new and give it a name.

Expand this activity by looking up information about the different creatures and environments you make. What do they eat? Where do they live?

Perfect for ages 5+

STEAM Connections: Nature Walk

Explore and learn about the outdoors with Plano Public Library and Plano Parks & Recreation! In this video, you’ll learn how to make a personalized set of binoculars using household items like cardboard tubes, glue and various creative supplies; then, we’ll go on a walk with Kelley at Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve. She offers some interesting information about trails and where they lead throughout the park, and the variety of insects, trees and flowers you can see in the park.