Boredom Busters: Outdoor Games for a Sunny Day

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Outdoor Games for a Sunny Day!

Shadow Tag: in the time of physical distancing, it can be hard for a group of people, especially kids, to play together. Shadow Tag is a great way to incorporate group play and physical activity without having to physically contact the people you're playing with. Just like the name suggests, you tag their "shadow". Best played on a sunny afternoon (not when the sun is directly overhead), the kids (or adults) can chase each other around and step on their target's shadow. Give it a try, and see what you think!

Jump Rope Games: now is the perfect time to teach your kids those jump rope rhymes you learned growing up! You might be surprised with ones they already know, and they might teach you some good ones too. Come up with your own together, or try some of these!

Target Practice Painting: if you have Nerf guns or a Nerf bow and arrow, then try target painting. It's exactly like it sounds - dip your Nerf dart or arrow into some paint, and aim for the target. You can create your own small target to aim for, or throw up a big banner to create a unique masterpiece!

Water Jump: this is a fairly easy activity to adapt for physical distancing. One person standing in the middle holding the jump rope. Other players stand around them in a circle holding a cup of water. The person in the middle spins with the rope, and the other players have to jump over it without spilling their water. The person with the most water left in their cup after 5 jumps is the winner!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in some fun outdoor games on a sunny day!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Plants & Bugs

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Plants & Bugs!

The weather is getting nice, so let's g outside, spend some time in your backyard, look for nice rocks, plant some seeds, check for bugs, etc. Have a look at these ideas:

Growing Beans: http://www.peepandthebigwideworld.com/en/educators/curriculum/family-child-care-educators/plants/activity/guided-activity/157/planting-bean-seeds/

This is a great concept to show kids what plants need in order to grow. Try planting them in dirt, and in a plastic bag. Tip: green and black beans sprout the fastest!

Indoor Herb Garden: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/books/indoor-herb-garden/

Let your kids do the whole project (or as much as they can), encourage them to document the process with pictures, notes, drawings, etc. During the process, take the opportunity to talk about plants, how they grow, why sunlight and water is important for the plants, etc. After they sprout and become plants, you can use the herbs to make dinner. The kids will be so proud of themselves! If you take pictures, go ahead and share them with us, or tag us in your social media!

When you're done planting, check out Goodnight Veggies by Diana Murray, or Rosario's Fig Tree by Charis Wahl on cloudLibrary!

Colour Changing Flowers: https://www.rookieparenting.com/color-changing-flowers-science-experiment/

This is an easy and fun indoor science experiment to lean about how flowers - or vegetables - can absorb water and change their colour. For materials, you just need some flowers or celery sticks, food colouring, cups, water, and a little bit of patience! Check out the results periodically to see how the colour changes - it doesn't hurt to leave them overnight!

Get Crafty: http://www.raysofbliss.com/bugs-fingerprint-art-free-printable/

We love making crafts! All you need is white paper, stamp ink or finger paint, and a black marker!If you're looking for more inspiration, check out Ranger Rick! They're currently offering a free, 3-month subscription.

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in making fun with plants and bugs!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Origami 2.0

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Origami 2.0!

There are a couple of great origami books in our digital collection! Check them out: https://ebook.yourcloudlibrary.com/library/prl/Search/origami 

Hummingbird: https://www.origamispirit.com/2011/02/an-easy-to-fold-origami-hummingbird/

Hummingbirds are such tiny, delicate creatures. Getting to see one up close is next to impossible! But fret not, you can create your own origami hummingbird! Follow the steps above, or check out this easy-to-follow video tutorial!

Dinosaur: https://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Origami-Dinosaur

Make your own T-Rex or Pterosaur with these instructions! By the time you're done, you could have your own Jurassic World! When you're done building your origami dinosaur, check out Dinosaur Bones, by Bob Barner on cloudLibrary!

Butterfly: https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/easy-origami-butterfly-tutorial-2540970

Try catching butterflies in the yard before making this origami creation! Once you get the hang of this design, try different sizes and colours. You could have your own butterfly garden! When you're done with these, check out A Butterfly is Patient, by Dianna Hutts Aston and Sylvia Long on cloudLibrary!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in making more origami!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Sunshine Art

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Sunshine Art!

Crochet Sun Coasters: https://www.makeandtakes.com/crochet-sun-coasters

Check out this adorable sunshine coaster! Crocheting is a wonderful project that combines crafting and art, and can be very relaxing! If you're new to crocheting, check out these tips for beginners!

Once you get the hang of it, you'll be crocheting everything!

Sunshine Button Art: https://www.pinterest.ca/search/pins/?q=sunshine%20button%20art&rs=typed&term_meta[]=sunshine%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=button%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=art%7Ctyped

Button art is so versatile and creative. Pull out your collection of buttons, or pick up some new ones, and see what different sunshine pieces you can create! The only limit is your imagination!

Zentangle Sun Art: https://fineartamerica.com/art/zentangle+sun

Zentangles are lots of fun to create, and so soothing! Check out some of these zentangle patterns for inspiration, or create your own!

Pointillism Sun Art: https://www.scholastic.com/parents/school-success/learning-toolkit-blog/pointillism-kids-painting-dots.html

Pointillism is a unique but beautiful way to paint a picture. Learn about pointillism from the video below or the link above, and then try your hand at making some beautifully pointillism sun art!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in creating Sunshine Art!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Family Time

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Family Time! 

Edible Play Dough: the following recipe is an adaptation from the original Edible Play Dough from the book 101 Kids Activities That Are the Bestest, Funnest Ever!: the Entertainment Solution for Parents, Relatives, & Babysitters! Follow the link to place a hold on the library's copy.

Materials: (makes 3 1/2 cups of dough)
Large mixing bowl
Strong wooden or metal spoon
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
1/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup milk (can be replaced with vegetable juice)
2-3 tsp olive oil
Beet or spinach juice to dye (2 tbsp, optional)

Mix all the dry ingredients together in bowl, using your hands or the sturdy spoon. Add the egg, sour cream, milk, and oil. Mix well. Add the juice, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. Once dough has chilled and set, it is more elastic, and children can use their imagination to create worms, balls, strips, etc. Once finished, their creations can become noodles! Boil their dough noodles in water with a pinch of salt for 20-30 minutes, until fully cooked. Serve for dinner with your favourite sauce. You'll enjoy your tasty meal, and the kids will have pride in their creations!

Dance Along: dance is a wonderful way to connect the family, try new moves, and go silly! Take videos, share with family, make a talent show, etc. You will see how everybody will laugh a lot! GoNoodle has a wonderful variety of videos to lead your kids through dancing, stretching, running, jumping, wiggling, and more!

Family Tree: creating a family tree sounds like a daunting project, but it doesn't have to be difficult! Try to collect some information through pictures, making phone calls to grandparents or extended family members, looking at some family heirlooms. Create a scrapbook or a nice display. Above all, make sure everyone is involved in creating those moments of family connection. Who knows, this might make a great Christmas gift!

Check out the Ancestry database in our eLibrary to explore your family history: https://sylvanlibrary.prl.ab.ca/elibrary/eservices/ancestry-library-edition

Read All About It: our digital library has a great selection of books to read as a family. Check out Travels With My Family, by Marie-Louise Gay or Pete the Cat's Family Road Trip by James & Kimberly Dean on cloudLibrary!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in making family time!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Take Flight

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Take Flight!

Hot Air Balloons: https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/vehicles/hotairballoons.html

Did you know that the temperature inside a hot air balloon is usually kept below 120 degrees Celsius? Or that the large balloon on top is called an 'envelope'? Learn all sorts of cool facts about hot air balloons, then watch a colourful time-lapse of hot air balloons from the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta!

Check out this easy hot air balloon craft!

Airplanes: https://www.scienceforkidsclub.com/airplanes.html

There are lots of great facts about planes out there to learn, but what about things *not* to do on a plane? Things like:

- yelling "pillow fight!" when a flight attendant hands out pillows
- asking people around you whether they like ears or noses better
- blowing your nose and showing everyone the contents of the tissue (we especially shouldn't be doing this now).

Airplanes can be fun, and they're a marvel of physics and engineering! Make your own paper airplanes and see how far they can fly, or try this cool toilet paper airplane craft!

Space Shuttles: https://easyscienceforkids.com/space-shuttle-facts-for-kids/

Did you know that the space shuttle was the first reusable spacecraft in the world? The only part that can't be reused is the external fuel tank, as it burns up in the atmosphere after launching. 

Who remembers this record breaking space jump by Felix Baumgartner in 2018?

Check out this interactive paper plate rocket as you blast off into space!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in taking flight!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Art With a Twist

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Art With a Twist!

Agamograph: https://babbledabbledo.com/math-art-idea-make-an-agamograph/

This project combines art and math for a colourful twist! Make some of your own agamographs using the instructions above, or print off a template to colour in.

Optical Illusions: https://www.optics4kids.org/illusions

From brain teasers to tricky art, optical illusions will make you think! Check out the ones above, and then try creating some of your own!

Hammer Painting: https://taminglittlemonsters.com/hammer-painting-process-art-for-kids/

This project is as cool as it sounds! You can do this with chalk (soaked in water) or acryllic paint. This is definitely a great activity for outside, as it can get messy!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in art with a twist!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Imagination

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Boxes: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/craft-ideas/g2970/cardboard-box-crafts/?slide=1

What can you build out of a cardboard box? Let your imagination take over, and see what you can create! Check out some of the ideas above if you're looking for inspiration, or just start building!

Cloud Gazing: https://www.brighthorizons.com/family-resources/cloud-gazing

Remember laying on the grass and watching the clouds go by, guessing what shapes they made? Let's do that again! While you're cloud gazing, check out Dory Fantasmagory: Head in the Clouds on cloudLibrary!

Dramatic Play: https://www.theempowerededucatoronline.com/2017/06/dramatic-play-outside-ideas.html/

Don't let the rain fool you, warm weather is on the horizon! Now's a perfect time to check out some fabulous outdoor dramatic play! Maybe that's helping with gardening, or bringing paints outside and drawing inspiration from the outside world. Hide some treasure in the sand box, or if you have your own "dirt pit", rock out the shovels and trucks! The only limit is your imagination - so foster it!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in the wonder of imagination!





If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Rainy Day Baking

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Rainy Day Baking!

Crunch Peanut Butter Apple Dip: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/crunchy-peanut-butter-apple-dip/

This is a nice refreshing snack, and easy to make when the rain has you feeling a little lackluster.

All you need is:

- apple slices
- cream cheese
- creamy peanut butter
- milk
- brown sugar
- vanilla extract
- chopped peanuts

Put it all together, and you have a delicious and healthy afternoon snack!

Fresh Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/fresh-fruit-salsa-with-cinnamon-chips/

The cinnamon chips are the bomb! A perfect balance to the delicious fruit salsa. Don't worry if you don't have all of the different fruits, or want to mix up the recipe a little bit. Make it your own, experiment with different flavours, and have fun! Have some chips left over? Try this Mexican Chocolate Dip to go with them!

Cheesy Stuffed Baked Potatoes: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/cheesy-stuffed-baked-potatoes/

Alright, now that we got the fresh and light snacks out of the way, let's delve into some comfort food for a rainy day! Baked potatoes are a timeless classic, and melted cheese just makes everything better. A little sprinkling of paprika really pops against the cheese!

Chocolate Comfort Cake: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/chocolate-comfort-cake/

This is just straight up deliciousness, and will make you forget all about those rainy days! Don't worry if you don't have a fluted tube pan. Try it in a bunt cake pan, or as a sheet cake - you might need to adjust the time, but it will still be delicious! That poured on chocolate glaze gives it a fun extra pop!

Hopefully these recipes help break up the day, and get your family engaged in some rainy day baking!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Body Movement

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Body Movement!

Simon Says: https://playtivities.com/30-funniest-simon-says-ideas/

Takes turns playing "Simon" in this timeless classic. This is a fun and silly way to get your bodies moving and making each other laugh at who can create - and stick - the most outrageous challenges/poses.

Sylvan Lake Photo Walk: https://sylvanlibrary.prl.ab.ca/events/photo-exhibition


While we're having some spring showers, with the weather getting nicer, now is a great time to go for a walk around town. Bring your camera (or phone), and take some photos of what Spring looks like in Sylvan Lake! Tag them on social media with #SylvanLakePhotoWalk or submit them to corrie.brown@prl.ab.ca for the weekly Best of Sylvan Lake Photo Walk! The photo below was submitted by Martin Swain.

Charades: https://kidactivities.net/charades-ideas-for-kids/

Charades is another silly and engaging way to get your body moving around. Check out the 101 different charades ideas, and see how many new ones you can add to it! We might be a little biased, but "Reading a Book" sounds like a winner!

Family Yoga Storytime: https://www.facebook.com/events/249963032820719/

Sign up for this free, family yoga story time with guest instructor Katie Paquin. We'll read some fun animal-themed stories, and re-imagine those animals in silly and stretchy poses!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in positive body movement!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: What Does the Fox Say?

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is What Does the Fox Say?

Who can forget the Ylvis hit, "What Does the Fox Say"? As we get settled in for today's blog, check out this Just Dance version!

Get Crafty: https://www.redtedart.com/fox-crafts/

Try out some of these fun fox crafts. If you enjoyed the Tiger Corner Bookmark from yesterday's blog, try this Fox Corner Bookmark!

Beaded Fox Keychain: http://www.beadiecritters.com/patternpages/beadfox.htm

I used to love making these pony bead keychains when I was a kid. Follow the patter above if you're familiar with the process, or check out the step-by-step tutorial below for how to make a Beaded Fox Keychain.

Foxy Face Paint: https://www.snazaroo.com/us/tips-and-techniques/fox/

Follow the technique above to do some fancy fox face paint. You can use this recipe to make your own face paint, or use store bought.

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in some fox fun!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!

Read All About Them: cloudLibrary and Tumblebooks have a great assortment of books to read digitally. Check out Princess Angelica: Part-Time Lion Trainer, Go Get 'Em, Tiger!, Tiger in Trouble!, Bears! Bears! Bears!, and an assortment of The Berenstain Bears books on cloudLibrary.

Get Crafty: who doesn't love doing crafts? Check out some of these fantastic crafts to make your roar like a lion, tiger, or bear!

Lion Ribbon Puppet Craft: https://www.easypeasyandfun.com/ribbon-lion-puppet-craft/#_a5y_p=5640825

All you need for this craft is:

- ribbon
- glue dots or hot glue (adult use only to save tiny fingers)
- craft sticks
- yellow paper
- glue
- markers

Tiger Corner Bookmarks: https://www.easypeasyandfun.com/tag/tiger-crafts-for-kids/

Flex your origami muscles as you make this adorable tiger corner bookmark! Having origami paper is a bonus, but not a necessity. Just make sure you cut the paper you are using in a square, and start folding! Then decorate with some tiger stripes, and add in some sharp teeth and a tongue!

Bear Craft Cards: https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/bear-craft/

These cards are super cute, and you can personalize them with as many colours or details as you'd like!

Now, because we can't have Boredom Busters titled "Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!" without giving credit to the source material, enjoy this timeless clip from The Wizard of Oz:

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in making fun with lions, tigers, and bears!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Minute to Win It

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Minute to Win It!

Minute to Win It challenges are a great way to turn competition into hilarity. Try some of these challenges and see who can rack up the most points!

Chopstick Race: For this game, you'll need a big bowl, chopsticks, and a cup for everyone. Pour a rounded cereal of your choice (Corn Pops, Coco Puffs, etc.) into the giant bowl, and give everyone a pair of chopsticks and a cup. Once the timer starts, everyone has to use the chopsticks to try and transfer as many pieces of cereal into their cup as they can.

Cookie Face: For this game, all you need are cookies. Place the cookie on the center of your forehead, then you have one minute to try and slide the cookie down your face and into your mouth - without using your hands!

One-Handed Bracelets: For this game, you'll need pipe cleaners, and a round cereal with a hole in the center (Cheerios, Fruit Loops, etc.). When the timer starts, load as many pieces of cereal onto the pipe cleaner as you can and loop the pipe cleaner into a bracelet - using only one hand!

Jellybean Toss: For this game, you'll need cups and a candy of your choosing. Partner up, and see which pair can successfully toss the most candies into their partner's cup - from at least 6 feet away!

Junk in the Trunk: If you ever thought you would never twerk, you were wrong! For this game, you'll need empty tissue boxes, ribbon or rope, and ping pong balls. Attach the ribbon or rope to the tissue box or sandwich bag box, then fill it with 6 ping pong balls (make sure you remove the plastic if using a tissue box). Tie the box around your waist with the box on your back/butt. Once the timer starts, shake and pop and twist and twerk and try to get all 6 ping pong balls out of the box, without killing yourself laughing.

When you're all done, tally up everyone's points, and see who was the Minute to Win It winner! Check out more Minute to Win It Challenge here!

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in learning all about trains!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: All About Trains

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is All About Trains!

Fun Facts: https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/vehicles/trains.html

Trains are pretty amazing! Learn some fun facts about trains, such as:

- early trains relied on horses, ropes, and gravity
- some trains have a second locomotive that helps push the train from the back
- some trains can travel as fast as 300 km/hr
- magnetic levitation propels trains forward using magnets

Check out more fun facts about trains here!

Sponge Painted Train: https://buggyandbuddy.com/sponge-painted-train-craft-inspired-by-freight-train/

This is a great sensory art project, and a great way to learn about locomotives!

Read All About It: https://sylvanlibrary.prl.ab.ca/elibrary/read

From Thomas the Tank Engine to the Polar Express, we love books about trains! Check out some digital books on trains, such as Steam Train, Dream Train or All Aboard the Moonlight Train on cloudLibrary, and Subway Ride on TumbleBooks.

Train Songs: https://www.songsforteaching.com/trainsongs/

Songs are a great learning tool, and there are some great songs about trains. Who didn't grow up listening to "Dinah won't you blow your horn"?

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in learning all about trains!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters: Brain Teasers

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Brain Teasers!

Riddles: https://brightside.me/wonder-quizzes/17-challenging-brainteasers-for-kids-that-will-stretch-your-brain-193205/

Riddles are a great way to balance critical thinking with good old fashioned silliness! See if you can guess the answers to these riddles without peeking! Don't forget to watch our Instagram for our Riddle of the Day!

Math Problems: https://www.prodigygame.com/blog/brain-teasers-for-kids/#math

Math might not always seem like fun, but these math-themed riddles and brain teasers will get your brain working and have you chuckling!

Spot the Difference: http://www.puzzlesandriddles.com/SpotTheDifference.html

This a great brain exercise that incorporates a little bit of scavenger hunting with a little bit of art. Don't want to spend too much time on the screen? Check out these printables! You have to create an account, but the downloads are free.

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family engaged in some fun brain teasers!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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Boredom Busters - Windy Day Activities

We are temporarily reviving our Children's Blog to provide some resources for families who are stuck at home during this period of social distancing due to COVID-19. We will put together a variety of activities for you and your families every day at 1:00 pm. Watch for weekend Boredom Busters on Saturday and/or Sunday. See which ones you can do, and if you get the chance, share the results with us on any of our social media platforms, which will be listed at the bottom of this blog.

Today's theme is Windy Day Activities! 

Giant Bubbles: https://happyhooligans.ca/homemade-giant-bubbles/

I love making giant bubbles. The best bubble batch I ever had was about half store-bought bubbles and half homemade bubbles (they got mixed by mistake, and it was a very happy accident!).

For this recipe, you just need:

- water
- dish detergent
- corn starch
- baking powder
- glycerine (I recommend purchasing at a drug store as opposed to in the cake decorating aisle, as you'll want to add extra glycerine for stronger bubbles)

Let it sit for at least an hour before you use it, then make a giant bubble wand out of two sticks and some yarn. Point your bubble wand into the wind and let them fly! 

Wind Socks: https://kidscraftroom.com/how-to-make-a-windsock-rainbow-craft-for-kids/

All you need for this project is a milk jug, ribbons, scissors, a kitchen knife, and a stapler! You can also do an even more simple version of this craft with a toilet paper roll or paper towel tube. Empty out that recycling bin and see what you can make!

Wind Chimes: https://rainydaymum.co.uk/simple-wind-chime/

You can create wind chimes with just about anything! I love the simplicity of this one. Pick out some string or cord and your favourite buttons, and let the kids' creativity take over. If you have some metal beads or washers, you can add those to add to the sound. Then just find a place to hang it where the wind will catch it!

Pinwheels: https://www.firstpalette.com/craft/pinwheel.html

Pinwheels are such a classic wind toy. Perfect for planting beside your garden, you'll never be caught off-guard by a windy day! To make this timeless craft, you'll need:

- paper
- scissors
- glue
- crayons/makers
- pencil & eraser
- push pin
- bead or small button

Check out this tutorial for a step-by-step guide:

Hopefully these activities help break up the day, and get your family ready to make the most of a windy day!

If your kids loved these activities, feel free to send us feedback or pictures on any of our social media platforms, linked below.

Library staff are available by phone (403-887-2130) or email Monday-Friday, 9:00 am 5:00 pm.

You can access all of our digital materials (eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more) through our website. If your membership is expired, or you need a membership, call us at 403-887-2130 and we can help.  
 
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