We invite you to check out this month’s Youth Services recommendations for activities, resources and new books in the library collection for children up to 5 years old and their families.
Black History Month: Picture books for little kids
February is Black History Month. Check out this Youth Services staff-curated list of picture books for young children that feature notable African Americans, past and present, and celebrate stories by Black authors and illustrators that capture the diverse experiences of Black families and children. Learning about Black history and seeing authentic Black representation is important for all kids to see, no matter their skin color or age, all year round.
Come celebrate the Lunar Year of the Dragon with an all-ages program featuring Chinese painting, calligraphy, musical instruments, paper cutting, traditional dances and other games and crafts. This event happens on Saturday, February 17, from 2-4 p.m. in the library’s Community Room and is co-sponsored with the Princeton High School Mandarin classes, the Princeton High School Chinese Club and the Princeton Chinese Language School.
Saturday events at Howell Living History Farm
Mercer County Park’s Howell Living History Farm in nearby Hopewell Township has recently announced its calendar of events for Saturdays in 2024, including upcoming maple sugaring tours and an Old-Fashioned Valentine’s Day in February. Most Saturday programs are free and open to the public with a small fee for craft supplies and/or food provided. Some require advance registration, so be sure to check out each description for more information. The farm is a wonderful place to explore any day of the week with young children.
Like So by Ruth Forman and Raissa Figueroa
This new picture book written by acclaimed poet, Ruth Forman, and Coretta Scott King Award Honoree illustrator, Raissa Figueroa, is a beautiful tribute to intergenerational love and connection to nature. It’s a perfect book to share during Black History Month and the season of love.
It’s never too early to introduce children to art history. When a little girl asks meaningful questions about creating art, her questions are answered by a diverse group of artists throughout time and history. This inspiring picture book about making art doubles as an introduction to the multifaceted and global history of art.