Parents
R.E.A.D. Program Sign-ups
Written by claire on 10/12/2010There is still space for the R.E.A.D. program for this Thursday, February 2 at 4:15pm.
Kids can sign up for individual reading sessions with Darien Library's R.E.A.D.er dog Brasil and his friends.
Winter R.E.A.D. sessions*. Register by selecting the date.
March 1
April 5
May 3
*All sessions begin at 4:15pm, and are 15 minutes each
*Sessions are for kids reading on their own, or with help. Ages 4 and up recommended.
To find out more about the R.E.A.D. program at Darien Library click here.
Our Favorite Parenting Blogs
Written by KieraP on 02/06/2012
Whether you're sporting your first baby bump or expecting your third little bundle of joy, chances are there is a parenting blog out there that you'll love. Moms, dads, and caregivers can trade tips, tricks, day-in-the-life adventures, and even shopping bargains through social media platforms like blogs. Here are a few of our favorite parenting blogs:
Pregnant Chicken: Laugh-out-loud funny observations and straightforward information for new parents.
Cool Mom Picks: Real Simple named this shopping blog as one of their top three. The bloggers curate list of great gifts, craft ideas, and products for both baby and mom- so you don't have to.
OhDeeDoh: From the creators of Apartment Therapy comes this interior design blog that has tips on everything from home improvement projects, to setting up a nursery, to converting a child's bedroom into a cool teen space.
Babble: More of a parenting website than a blog per se, Babble is a fount of information on everything from taming tantrums to having "The Talk." They also feature some great personal mom/dad blogs.
Autism Spot: An empowering and positive blog with information for parents of children with autism or other sensory integration disorders. Contains news about scientific studies and trials, activities for sensory and social development, and support forums.
Geek Dad: Several dads (and sometimes moms, too!) contribute to this fun, tech-savvy Wired blog for parents. From books, to video games, to Lego competitions, there is no shortage of great, geeky ideas.
Our Family Eats: Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Pop over to this practical foodie blog for busy chefs.
Radical Parenting: Believe it or not, this insightful and informative blog is not written by parents- but by a group of teen writers. Started by Vanessa Van Petten at age 16, the site is now home to over 120 teen contributors. For an inside look at the brain of a teenager, this is an invaluable resource for moms and dads.
Did you know we have some amazing parent bloggers right here in Darien? Check out these local mom bloggers and come meet them in person at the Tech Moms panel event next Wednesday, February 15 at 9:30am.
Lisa Boncheck Adams (LisaBAdams.com): Writings on breast cancer, grief & loss, life, and family.
Nicole Lyons (All About Darien): A "good-to-know" guide for and about everything Darien.
Jacquie (Afterwordsblog.com): Funny, poignant tales of a transplanted Brooklynite (now Darienite) living with her husband and two kids ("The Boy" and "The Girl") in suburbia.
Jennifer St. Jean (Itty Bitty Bag): Owner and creator of the Itty Bitty Bag company, this Darien mom is a craft and sewing goddess- she can even give detailed instructions how to hem a pleated jumper!
Have a favorite parenting blog that we missed? Share it in the comments section below!
photo courtesy of Flickr user miguelphotobooth.
Dealing with Bullies
Written by KieraP on 02/03/2012 |
photo courtesy of Flickr user Eddie~S |
From pushes on the playground to mean instant messaging, bullying is an issue that almost all children face at some time or another. With a recent surge in media attention and a new focus on cyber-bullying, parents may wonder where and how to find the best information and ways of talking to their own kids about bullies.
What if my child is the victim of bullying?
A recent article in Parenting magazine offered the following 3 Step process for parents:
Step One: Find out what's going on. Get the facts and reassure your child that you will both work together on a solution.
Step Two: Help your child figure out how to respond. Some responses include:
- Stand tall and act brave
- Ignore the bully
- Stick with friends
- Tell an Adult
Step Three: Take action yourself. Set up a meeting with the teacher, parent, or caregiver.
What if my child's friend is the bully?
One of the hardest things for a child to learn is how to stand up for what's right, even in the face of possible scrutiny or embarassment.
The US Department of Health and Human Services has a kid-friendly website called Stop Bullying Now that features info, games, quizzes, and webisodes all designed to address the issues of bullying , offer meaningful discussion starters, and help promote positive ways of combatting this childhood problem. Check out this video featuring the character Melanie and her struggle with a friend who is a known bully.
What if my child is the bully?
It can sometimes be hard to tell if childhood squabbles are simply "kids being kids" or if there is a more serious problem.
Stop Bullying Now offers the following advice to parents:
- Make it clear to your child that you take bullying seriously and that you will not tolerate this behavior.
- Develop clear and consistent rules within your family for your children's behavior. Praise and reinforce your children for following rules and use non-physical, non hostile consequences for rule violations.
- Spend more time with your child and carefully supervise and monitor his or her activities. Find out who your child's friends are and how and where they spend free time.
- Build on your child's talents by encouraging him or her to get involved in prosocial activities (such as clubs, music lessons, nonviolent sports).
- Share your concerns with your child's teacher, counselor, or principal. Work together to send clear messages to your child that his or her bullying must stop.
- If you or your child needs additional help, talk with a school counselor or mental health professional.
The Children's Library also offers some great books for both children and parents on the subject of bullying. These are a few of our favorites:
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Celebrate Black History Month!
Written by KieraP on 02/02/2012February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate and honor great and influential African Americans throughout history.
Did you know that Black History Month was first celebrated in 1926? It was originally called "Negro History Week" (a term that we no longer use) and was started by historian Carter G. Woodson. Mr. Woodson was one of the first scholars to study African American history and promote the importance of discovering and understanding the history of African Americans here in the United States and around the world.
Here are a few inspiring books to share in celebration of Black History Month:
For young children:
Langston Hughes' melodic poem is paired with stunning photography by Charles R. Smith, Jr. to create a siimple, yet moving tribute to beauty in its particular and universal forms.
For elementary-aged children:
Did you know that one of the 2011 Caldecott Honor books tells the story of a slave who went on to become an influential artist and poet? Dave the Potter by Labban Carrick Hill is a beautifully illustrated, powerful true story.
For older readers:
In this tour-de-force sequel to Chains, Curzon, a 15-year-old escaped slave, joins the Continental Army at Valley Forge. Will he and his friend Isabel finally be granted true freedom?
More books to celebrate Black History Month.
Looking for in-depth information on famous African Americans? Check our Biography Resource Center or History Resource Center.
App of the Month - DoodleCast for Kids
Written by claire on 01/02/2012January's App of the Month is DoodleCast for Kids. This App allows preschoolers to draw, create videos, and practice their Narrative Skills. DoodleCast was also recently voted the "best App for younger children" at the 2012 KAPi Awards, part of the Consumer Electronics Show.
The App gives kids a list of images and adjectives, allowing them to draw and record voice-overs. Their descriptions are then made into short videos which can be emailed or uploaded to YouTube.
Doodling has never been this fun! Grownups are sure to also love the educational elements of this engaging activity. Children can illustrate their knowledge both visually and verbally.
DoodleCast for Kids is designed by Zinc Roe Inc. and can be found online for iPad users.
Dont have an iPad? Did you know that the Children's Library circulates Early Literacy iPads? Place your hold today!
Programs for Children
Little Clickers [Fridays, March 23 - April 27 at 10:30AM]
REGISTRATON OPENS FEBRUARY 27*
A technology class for three- to five-year-olds with a parent/caregiver. This interactive class will introduce new kid-friendly websites and help your preschooler learn basic computer skills. *Registration is a lottery; register here between Monday, February 27 and Monday, March 12.
Techsplorers [Wednesdays, January 4, January 18, February 1, February 15 at 4:15PM]
Wailtlist for Techsplorers (Space is limited)
Children ages six- to eight-years-old will have the opportunity to reinforce computer skills, explore fun new websites and create unique projects using both traditional and digital art techniques.
iKids [Mondays, January 9, January 23, February 6, February 27 at 4:15PM]
Waitlist for iKids (Space is limited)
A creation-based technology program for nine- to twelve-year-olds. This highly interactive class focuses on using technology to express creativity. From podcasting and digital photography to book trailers and art apps, kids will explore different media and create their own.
Storytubes Creation Lab [December 27 - February 4; see registration form for details]
Calling all kid filmmakers and book lovers! Storytubes 2012 is a national competition in which children combine their love of reading with savvy tech skills to create unique book trailers. Darien Library is proud to be a Partner Library for the 2012 competition! Register to reserve time in the computer lab to use the Children's Library cameras and software to make your book trailer.
Part of Cyber Parents & Digital Natives: A Technology Series for the Modern Family.
Programs for Parents
Monday Matinee Film Series
Grab a coffee on us, get comfortable and explore the role of technology in the lives of children and teens as presented in these eye-opening documentaries:
Digital Nation [Mondays, January 9 and January 23 at 10AM] Over a single generation, the Web and digital media have remade nearly every aspect of modern culture. Frontline explores our lives as citizens in a digital age. 90 minutes.
Remote Control [Mondays, February 6 and February 27 at 10AM] The average American child spends over 40 hours per week consuming media, the equivalent of a full-time job. Remote Control offers a fascinating look at the centrality of media in our lives, revealing far-reaching effects that we are only beginning to understand. 39 minutes.
Growing Up Online [Mondays, March 5 and 19 at 10AM] This Frontline documentary peers inside the world of the new cyber-savvy generation of tweens and teeens; a generation with a radically different notion of privacy and personal space. 60 minutes.
Computer Basics for Parents [Wednesday, January 18, 9:30 - 11:30AM]
Have you just begun to dip a toes into the digital waters? We've got the perfect beginner's class for you. Learn basic computer vocabulary and concepts. Play with common applications and software. Ask questions and get answers!
Facebook & Google+: A Workshop for Parents [Wednesday, January 25, 9:30 - 11:30AM]
Are you on Facebook or Google+? How about your tween or teen? In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to navigate privacy settings and keep your profile safe in both Facebook and Google+.
Twitter for Parents
Tuesday, January 31, 9:30 - 10:30AM [Click here to REGISTER.]
Wednesday, February 1, 9:30 - 10:30AM [Click here to REGISTER.]
Tweeting's not just for the birds anymore! Learn the basics of using Twitter and experience how this dynamic tool can connect people across the globe. Find out how to limit settings and establish guidelines for tweens and tween who tweet. Register for one of the two offered workshops.
Tweet Up with the Children's Librarians [Fridays, February 10 at 11AM, March 2 at 11AM]
Whether you're on Twitter 24/7 or just tentatively tweeting, join us for these fast-paced and fun conversations, known as "Tweet Ups", on Twitter. On February 10, we'll be discussing eBooks, eReaders, and best practices for engaging both reluctant and voracious young readers. On March 2, we'll be talking about using Darien Library's interactive website and catalog. Tweet along by using the hashtag #CLTweetUp. Tweet from the Children's Library computers, at home, or on the go!
Tech Moms: A Panel Discussion for Parents [Wednesday, February 15 at 9:30AM]
Have you ever thought about starting a blog or a website? Whether you're interested in posting day-in-the-life observations, starting your own online business, or forming parenting network, you'll have the opportunity to meet four local moms who regularly blog, tweet and maintain personal and/or professional websites. Find out ho
w these modern moms successfully use technology for parenting, business, and beyond. Panelists will include Nicole Lyons, Jacquie Miller and Jennifer St. Jean. The panel will be moderated by Lisa Adams.
Etsy Workshop [Tuesday, March 6, 10AM - 12 Noon]
Are you crafty? Do you make handmade goods? Etsy is the world's most vibrant place for buying and selling handmade or vintage items. Learn all about how to run an Etsy shop from Jennifer St. Jean of Itty Bitty Bag.
Smart Apps, Sound Screentime: A Panel Discussion for Parents [Tuesday, March 13 at 9:30AM]
Touch screen technology and apps have changed the way even very young children interact with media, books and each other. But how much screentime is too much? Where do parents draw the line between healthy does of technology and oversaturation? How can parents find great, educational apps for different age groups? Hear from a panel of experts who will share their experiences and recommendations. This program is co-sponsored by Darien Library and YWCA Parent Awareness, members of Thriving Youth; Connected Community.
App Chat [Thursday, March 15 at 4PM]
Parents and educators are invited to join the Children's Librarians at this special edition of Children's Library Chat. We'll be discussing great apps for different age groups- everything from interactive eBooks to educational games. We'll also be sharing tips on how to find and evaluate apps for children.
Part of Cyber Parents & Digital Natives: A Technology Series for the Modern Family.
[Tweet bird image and laptop photo courtesy of Flickr user dmitrybarsky]
Cyber Parents & Digital Natives: A Technology Series for the Modern Family
It's a brave new world! From social networks to cloud computing, technology has changed the way families connect and communicate. Darien Library presents a series of programs and special events exploring the role of technology in the lives of parents and children. See below for individual events and registration information.
Programs for Parents
Programs for Children
Programs for the Whole Family
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Programs for Parents
21 Things for 21st Century Parents [January 16 through March 18]
Want to learn more about Twitter, Facebook, Etsy, eBooks and more? Over the course of eight weeks, you will learn about various Web 2.0 technologies and how to navigate through the perils and possibilities of the digital world. Participate at your own pace in this self-directed, online program. Complete fun and educational assignments- "Things"- to be entered into weekly raffles. Participants who complete every "Thing" by March 16th will be entered into a Grand Finale Raffle for a Kindle Fire.
Monday Matinee Film Series
Grab a coffee on us, get comfortable and explore the role of technology in the lives of children and teens as presented in these eye-opening documentaries:
Digital Nation [Mondays, January 9 and January 23 at 10AM] Over a single generation, the Web and digital media have remade nearly every aspect of modern culture. Frontline explores our lives as citizens in a digital age. 90 minutes.
Remote Control [Mondays, February 6 and February 27 at 10AM] The average American child spends over 40 hours per week consuming media, the equivalent of a full-time job. Remote Control offers a fascinating look at the centrality of media in our lives, revealing far-reaching effects that we are only beginning to understand. 39 minutes.
Growing Up Online [Mondays, March 5 and 19 at 10AM] This Frontline documentary peers inside the world of the new cyber-savvy generation of tweens and teeens; a generation with a radically different notion of privacy and personal space. 60 minutes.
Computer Basics for Parents [Wednesday, January 18, 9:30 - 11:30AM]
Have you just begun to dip a toes into the digital waters? We've got the perfect beginner's class for you. Learn basic computer vocabulary and concepts. Play with common applications and software. Ask questions and get answers!
Facebook & Google+: A Workshop for Parents [Wednesday, January 25, 9:30 - 11:30AM]
Are you on Facebook or Google+? How about your tween or teen? In this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to navigate privacy settings and keep your profile safe in both Facebook and Google+.
Twitter for Parents
Tuesday, January 31, 9:30 - 10:30AM [Click here to REGISTER.]
Wednesday, February 1, 9:30 - 10:30AM [Click here to REGISTER.]
Tweeting's not just for the birds anymore! Learn the basics of using Twitter and experience how this dynamic tool can connect people across the globe. Find out how to limit settings and establish guidelines for tweens and tween who tweet. Register for one of the two offered workshops.
Tweet Up with the Children's Librarians [Fridays, February 10 at 11AM, March 2 at 11AM]
Whether you're on Twitter 24/7 or just tentatively tweeting, join us for these fast-paced and fun conversations, known as "Tweet Ups", on Twitter. On February 10, we'll be discussing eBooks, eReaders, and best practices for engaging both reluctant and voracious young readers. On March 2, we'll be talking about using Darien Library's interactive website and catalog. Tweet along by using the hashtag #CLTweetUp. Tweet from the Children's Library computers, at home, or on the go!
Tech Moms: A Panel Discussion for Parents [Wednesday, February 15 at 9:30]
Have you ever thought about starting a blog or a website? Whether you're interested in posting day-in-the-life observations, starting your own online business, or forming parenting network, you'll have the opportunity to meet four local moms who regularly blog, tweet and maintain personal and/or professional websites. Find out how these modern moms successfully use technology for parenting, business, and beyond. Panelists will include Nicole Lyons, Jacquie Miller and Jennifer St. Jean. The panel will be moderated by Lisa Adams.
Etsy Workshop [Tuesday, March 6, 10AM - 12 Noon]
Are you crafty? Do you make handmade goods? Etsy is the world's most vibrant place for buying and selling handmade or vintage items. Learn all about how to run an Etsy shop from Jennifer St. Jean of Itty Bitty Bag.
Smart Apps, Sound Screentime: A Panel Discussion for Parents [Tuesday, March 13 at 9:30AM]
Touch screen technology and apps have changed the way even very young children interact with media, books and each other. But how much screentime is too much? Where do parents draw the line between healthy does of technology and oversaturation? How can parents find great, educational apps for different age groups? Hear from a panel of experts who will share their experiences and recommendations. This program is co-sponsored by Darien Library and YWCA Parent Awareness, members of Thriving Youth; Connected Community.
App Chat [Thursday, March 15 at 4PM]
Parents and educators are invited to join the Children's Librarians at this special edition of Children's Library Chat. We'll be discussing great apps for different age groups- everything from interactive eBooks to educational games. We'll also be sharing tips on how to find and evaluate apps for children.
Programs for Children
Little Clickers [Fridays, March 23 - April 27 at 10:30AM]
A technology class for three- to five-year-olds with a parent/caregiver. This interactive class will introduce new kid-friendly websites and help your preschooler learn basic computer skills. Registration is a lottery; register here between Monday, February 27 and Monday, March 12.
Techsplorers [Wednesdays, January 4, January 18, February 1, February 15 at 4:15PM]
Click here to REGISTER. (Space is limited.)
Children ages six- to eight-years-old will have the opportunity to reinforce computer skills, explroe fun new websites and create unique projects using both traditional and digital art techniques.
iKids [Mondays, January 9, January 23, February 6, February 27 at 4:15PM]
Click here to REGISTER. (Space is limited.)
A creation-based technology program for nine- to twelve-year-olds. This highly interactive class focuses on using technology to express creativity. From podcasting and digital photography to book trailers and art apps, kids will explore different media and create their own.
Storytubes Creation Lab [December 27 - February 4; see registration form for details]
Calling all kid filmmakers and book lovers! Storytubes 2012 is a national competition in which children combine their love of reading with savvy tech skills to create unique book trailers. Darien Library is proud to be a Partner Library for the 2012 competition! Register to reserve time in the computer lab to use the Children's Library cameras and software to make your book trailer.
Programs for the Whole Family
Family Gaming Sandbox [Friday, February 24 at 4PM]
Bring along Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa for this whole-family afternoon of gaming fun. Try out the Wii, XBox Kinect and handheld gaming devices. Learn about hidden and not-so-hidden benefits of video gaming and how video games can help boost brain power!
Gadget Sandbox [Saturday, January 21 at 2PM]
What's the difference between a Nook and a Kindle? How do you download eBooks onto an iPad? Find out the answers to these questions and have fun playing with other fun devices and tech gadgets.
[Tweet bird image and laptop photo courtesy of Flickr user dmitrybarsky]
Morning Matinees for Parents in December
Written by missmarian on 11/22/2011Darien Library will be hosting morning screenings of documentaries in December. If you haven't had a chance to see one, or both, of these films, please join us!
Miss Representation
Monday, December 19 at 10 a.m. in the Community Room
This film looks at the negative portrayal of women and girls in the media, and its glorification of youth and beauty. After screening at the Sundance Film Festival, Miss Representation was picked up by the Oprah Winfrey N etwork for their documentary film series. 90 minutes. TV-14.
Waiting for Superman
Wednesday, December 21 at 10 a.m. in the Conference Room
Filmmaker Davis Guggenheim tackles the topic of public education and introduces the viewer to the faces behind the statistics. 102 minutes. Rated PG.
The New York Times' 2011 Best Illustrated Children's Books
Written by missmarian on 11/03/2011The New York Times Book Review just announced it's 10 picks for Best Illustrated Children's 
Books of 2011. These books run the gamut from dry humor (I Want My Hat Back) to gorgeous biographies (Me...Jane and A Nation's Hope, which you might remember as a Booktalking title from this past summer!).
The list of books is below, with the exception of two books: Ice by Arthur Geisert and A New Year's Reunion by Yu Li-Qiong.
Darien Library, 1441 Post Road, Darien, Connecticut, 06820-5419 · 203-655-1234Directions and Contact Information. Twitter: darienlibrary. AIM & Y!M: deweydarien.