Monroeville Public Library is holding a three-part children’s series on space, where participants learn fun facts about the sun, planets, stars and asteroid belt.
The first session this month was conducted by the newest staff member of the children’s department, Allyson Wetherhold, who joined the library in October.
Children made their own solar system models using foam balls, stickers, markers and sticks. And they were given Oreos to help learn about the moon’s phases.
Hope Benson, head of children’s services, stressed the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning, especially for young people.
“Space might seem like just a fun theme that gets kids excited, with the rockets and astronauts. However, studying space offers more than that,” Benson said. “STEM offers a chance to practice and grow critical thinking and problem solving with fun, engaging, real-life scenarios.”
Benson added that when children learn about the universe, they can better understand the world as a whole.
“They learn what is special about our planet and what is best for our planet,” Benson said. “Individuals can begin to discover their place in the world and gain perspective.”
Wetherhold, who previously worked as a long-term kindergarten substitute teacher, said she enjoys working with and teaching children.
“I love that the kids are able to explore and just be together,” Wetherhold said. “The kids usually start out kind of quiet, and I love to see them chatting away and opening up to each other by the end.”
In the two subsequent sessions, participants will learn about zodiac and ecliptic constellations, space travel and other forms of exploration. They’ll also make their own mini flying rockets and construct edible constellations and satellites.
“I’m actually really looking forward to our next one,” Wetherhold said.