$800 – Valley of the Tetons Library
Youth Philanthropists partially funded the Valley of the Tetons Library, Victor branch in creating an Art of Play space. This interactive early childhood development environment will be used to stimulate and educate toddlers and pre-school children in our community. The self-directed room will create a playspace that will foster children to develop curiosity and inclusivity, based on movement, art, and positive peer interactions.
Teton Valley is a unique and sometimes challenging community in which to live. Resources for families are limited in scope, availability, or ability to pay. The Library provides a “fee-free ” space where families can enjoy a place to bring their kids for interaction. The Library is currently creating a critical space for the growth of babies/toddlers in this community. The Art of Play is designed to cultivate social/emotional intelligence as well as provide a space to move and play. By modeling other similar library programs they will create a room that will have a curriculum that will guide children to reach milestones as they prepare for preschool and kindergarten. Young children will experience a learning space that will expose them to art and tactile manipulation, as well as body movement and control. They will synthesize knowledge and skills by developing important complex social and higher-order thinking skills.
Pretending is a huge part of development. They are also learning to solve problems, coordinate, cooperate and think flexibly. Currently, the space in the Library is used for programs like storytime. The Library will transform this same space to add to this special learning hour. Children need time for play. As children’s s time is taken up more and more with scheduled activities, it is important to consider what they are losing when they miss out on pretend play. We intend to provide puppets, dolls, prop boxes, make-time materials, and mats. Music, singing, and dancing will be an important part of this space as well. The Library is committed to providing parents an environment in Teton Valley in which they can enrich their toddlers’ lives.
Youth Philanthropists were excited to contribute to the learning and safety of toddlers by creating a cozy space that is appealing, bright, colorful, and educational. Grant monies will be used to carefully curate and secure toys, blocks, and mats to make a Montessori-based creative environment. Friends of the Library will provide the needed construction materials, paint for the walls, lighting, and space design.
