This past summer my library hosted its third after hour blanket fort event. I love this event because of its simplicity. The costs are staff time, snacks, and some duct tape. Families are encouraged to bring their own blankets. The family enjoyment of the library is priceless!
During the first 20-30 minutes, one staff member is at the front door while another staff member is reading or telling stories in the children's area. (We conduct this event after the library is closed so that we can utilize the entire "public" area of the library.) After stories, we go over the rules and demonstrate how easy it is to make a blanket fort. Forts can be made with tables or shelves or chairs. The rules are in place for safety and to help the staff clean up.
- Walking feet only
- If you move furniture or books, put them back at the end of the event.
- If you use duct tape, you are responsible for carefully removing it.
- Once you leave the building, there is no coming back in. No in and out privileges.
- Children must leave with the adult they came in with.
Then we let everybody loose to create, read books, and enjoy snacks. One favorite thing to do is to create a fort and then read a few picture books inside the fort. This was a fun way to integrate building/engineering and reading into one fun family program!!
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