In order to keep Chicago’s students learning over the Winter Break, the Chicago Public Library encourages children to continue reading, discovering and creating by joining the Winter Learning Challenge: Neighborhood Nature. Open to anyone between the ages of 3 and 17, the Winter Learning Challenge encourages students to explore the world around them through a fun and engaging self-paced learning challenge available on the Library’s website from December 16, 2013, through January 5, 2014.
“The Winter Learning Challenge keeps Chicago students and children actively engaged in reading and creative opportunities even while outside of the classroom,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “By offering stimulating educational avenues for children, from Rahm’s Readers to the Winter Learning Challenge, the Chicago Public Library is continuing Chicago’s commitment to the importance of lifelong learning.”
Participation is easy. Following the theme Neighborhood Nature, kids are invited to look at nature in their community using one or more of the five topics: humans, pets, pigeons, squirrels and trees. To see a list of books, online resources and other activities, visit the Winter Learning Challenge page on chicagopubliclibrary.org. Complete the activities log using the suggested Read, Discover and Create activities listed or enter their own theme-related activities. Logs are available online or at all CPL locations.
Suggested activities include reading a book, magazine or website for 20 minutes a day for at least five days, discovering new information about nature in the city by doing an activity, and creating at least one story, poem or piece of art inspired by the theme. Families are also invited to visit a special hands-on exhibit at the Harold Washington Library Center to support interactive learning during the Winter Learning Challenge. Each participant who completes a log and returns it to their neighborhood library by Friday, January 10, will be entered in a raffle to win an eReader, generously provided through the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
The Chicago Public Library continues to encourage lifelong learning by welcoming all people and offering equal access to information, entertainment and knowledge through materials, programs and cutting-edge technology. Through its 80 locations, the Library provides free access to a rich collection of materials, both physical and digital, and presents the highest quality author discussions, exhibits and programs for children, teens and adults. The Winter Learning Challenge extends the Library’s yearlong family literacy programs including Hop Into Reading and the Summer Learning Challenge. For more information, visit chicagopubliclibrary.org, or call (312) 747-4780.
