Kids Are Customers, Too! Conference Sessions

Teen literacy and willingness to read has declined for some time now. This session addresses how to draw in reluctant readers with genrefied boxes.

Everybody eats...so everyone needs agriculture. Come learn about free resources to connect learners to the world around them and how agriculture plays a part in their daily lives. You will learn how to identify agriculturally accurate books within your library and how to use them to engage and excite learners (of all ages). You’ll discover a multitude of books relating to a variety of agriculture-related topics (from seed to store and everything in between) along with how to access 100’s of FREE hands-on lessons, activities, & resources to increase reader learning and engagement.

All aboard the early learning train - Full STEAM Ahead! Using Maryland Early Learning Standards in early childhood library programs ensures quality, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support children's holistic growth and prepare them for further learning in school and at home. This session will give an overview of the standards, highlight an early-learning STEAM program series based on the standards, and provide hands-on exploration of standard-based themes and activities for your children and their caregivers. All aboard - toot, toot!

We plan to introduce Create, Explore and more, a STEM program we have developed and led during the past two summers for children 8-13. We will share why hands-on STEM experiences are vital for elementary students and discuss the guiding principles we use when designing out activities. Out presentation will include photos showcasing several of the projects and explorations we've facilitated. To conclude, participants will break into small groups and engage in a sample Create, Explore and more activity to experience the program first hand.

Have you ever felt underprepared when suggesting titles to children and adults alike? Come learn how to cultivate your reader’s advisory skills through working on an awards committee from two board members of CAPITOL CHOICES! Through consistent discussion and reviewing of up-and-coming titles, you too can become a bookish whiz!

Sustainability is everywhere, once you start looking for it. This panel session will inspire you to reflect on sustainability in your own work with youth and families and identify ways you would like to further sustainability practices in youth services at your library. Examples of sustainability in programming, materials, facilities, and outreach will be shared by youth services' staff from three different library systems. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore programming activities that promote sustainable thinking and practice, now and in the future.