Submitted by Madawaska Valley Public Library
Every Wednesday afternoon this summer, a small group of children has met at the library for Summer Reading Club. Part of the TD Summer Reading Club initiative, each week they read stories, made crafts and played games based on a theme. A highlight of the club has been exchanging post cards with residents at Champlain Gardens. Children and seniors alike enjoyed sharing their summer adventures, favourite foods and information about themselves. Above from left: Frances, MVPL CEO Natalie Barrington, Evelyn, Felicia McThail, Noreen, Maggie, Phyllis, Clara, Florence; front Veronica, Rowan, Stefan, Catherine, Zoe. Photo submitted.
On August 16, the two groups met for a fun afternoon with a camping theme. Together the children and seniors made a frog craft out of toilet paper rolls, construction paper and googly eyes. The children sang campfire favourites, led by summer coordinator Zoe Venema-Hill, including “Alice the Camel,” “The Quartermaster’s Store” and “Boom Chicka Boom!” A camping theme would not be complete without a s’mores treat, which everyone enjoyed to wrap up the visit.
Several times over the afternoon, the participating seniors commented on how much fun they had interacting with the youth. CEO Natalie Barrington and Activities Leader Felicia McThail are planning more collaborations in the future.
