Special Online Family Programs Scheduled in May

Little Bear's Beary Bad Day -- Twanda's Theatre on Wheels

May 2021

In preparation for the Summer Reading Challenge, which begins May 31, Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) will have special online family programs for children of all ages each week rather than the regular virtual story-time activities. 

FBCL is continuing to offer children’s programming virtually, so that families can participate from the comfort and safety of home.

Videos of the family programs can be viewed by selecting “Virtual Programs” on the “Classes and Events” tab on the FBCL website and finding the programs on the scheduled dates. Parents may also want to join FBCL’s Facebook group page for Virtual Youth Programs & Educational Resources.

Families of toddlers and preschoolers may pick up to-go activity packets from the library for the month. These packets contain fun craft activities that can be done at home. Call the libraries to request to pick up the packets through the Curbside Pick-Up service, or visit one of the FBCL buildings that are currently open to the public.

The schedule of family programs for May is as follows:

  • May 1 – “The Story of Little Bear’s Terrible Unbearable Beary Bad Day” (pre-recorded video)

This program is presented by Twanda’s Theatre on Wheels, in conjunction with Young Audiences of Houston. The Story of Little Bear's Terrible Unbearable Beary Bad Day is a story that explores feelings and emotions. Little Bear woke up in a beary bad mood and was having a terrible day until he met a friend who reminded him of the importance of being kind and compassionate. (see photo)

  • May 8 – “Mother’s Day Celebration” (pre-recorded video)

Create a fun gift for mom, snuggle up for a sweet Mother’s Day book, and enjoy a fun celebration of mothers!

  • May 11 – “Steam Craft Carnival: Wind & Sound” (pre-recorded video)

In this virtual Steam Craft Carnival, learn how to create a Bee Buzzer, Singing Spoons, and a Wind Catcher. During each craft, library staff will explain the science that is involved in the activity, as well as everyday things that also utilize that science. A limited number of craft packets for this activity will be available for pick up at the First Colony Branch Library beginning May 4. Activity sheets may also be downloaded from the online calendar on the FBCL website and printed out at home. This activity is sponsored by the Friends of the First Colony Branch Library.

  • May 15 – “Yoga + Mindfulness” (pre-recorded video)

This program is presented by Kinetic Vibez, in conjunction with Young Audiences of Houston. Kinetic Vibez is an artistic wellness movement that focuses on introducing a holistically creative lifestyle to youth, ages 7 to 19. By fusing yoga, meditation, and hip-hop, students can overcome stress, depression, and bullying. In this online program, students will learn the basics of the yogic system of meditation, which includes guided stretches, guided breathing practices, and guided sound-based meditation. Students will learn how to use these practices to develop a strong sense of mindfulness, increase mental and physical flexibility, and take control of any depression, anxiety, or stress they may be experiencing. 

  • May 22 – “Fancy Nancy Tea Party” (pre-recorded video)

Watching this program, children can participate at home by dressing in their favorite party clothes while they listen to a “Fancy Nancy” story and enjoy an afternoon tea party. Library staff will demonstrate how to make a fancy wand and crown and offer instructions on how to create “Fancy Nancy” inspired snacks. Children may even pick up some etiquette tips to practice at home! A limited number of craft packets for this activity will be available for pick up at the First Colony Branch Library beginning May 17. Activity sheets may also be downloaded from the online calendar on the FBCL website and printed out at home. This activity is sponsored by the Friends of the First Colony Branch Library.

  • May 31-August 31“Tails and Tales” Summer Reading Challenge Registration 

FBCL presents special reading challenges during the summer to encourage reading among children from birth and up. Children are invited to read a lot of great books and earn fun prizes for reading. 

Participants may register for the Summer Reading Challenge (SRC) online by going to the FBCL website and clicking on the “SRC Sign-Up” image, which will become available on May 31. When the online registration form has been completed, readers will then have their own online page on which to record their books and reading time. Participants may also register and log books/reading time by downloading the free Beanstack Tracker app to their mobile device from the Apple App or Google Play stores. Fort Bend County Libraries and the Summer Reading Challenge will appear as options when the program starts on May 31.

Video links and special live-streamed performances for the SRC will be available on FBCL’s online calendar and on the “FBCL Virtual Programs & Educational Resources” Facebook group page in June and July.

For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734) or any of the library locations.