Calming and exhilarating. Both words that can be associated with hiking. Hiking is a fabulous hobby that can be done year round, all over the world, or close to home. Trails and paths can be anywhere from straight, narrow and rocky to wet, curvy, or steep. They can be on all sorts of terrain like sand, snow, dirt, hills, mountains or forests. Michigan is a beautiful state that offers all sorts of hiking trails for any season.  Local metroparks also have hiking opportunities as does the Michigan Trails Magazine. Hiking also offers access to activities for all ages, from senior citizens to kids.  No matter what kind of path you decide to take, hiking is great for your mind and body. So lace up your boots and dont forget to pack your water and some snacks! Head back to 62 days of summer for more ways to participate in the summer program.

Follow the trail to these library hiking books:

Nonfiction

Fiction

Kids Fiction

Kids Non-Fiction

Did you know that reading and writing poetry is actually good for your health? Reading poetry can help sharpen your brain with insight and critical thinking, while writing poetry can be therapeutic and help you be more self-aware. Appreciation for poetry is beneficial for all ages, whether you're a senior citizen, or a kid.  Some poems may make you ponder, while others will make you laugh together. Some may take you awhile to read, while others can be a "quick fix" to your reading time. No matter your reason for reading poetry, it can be extremely fulfilling and gratifying. The variety of topics that poems cover is vast. Take some time to explore the endless variety out there. The library offers some awesome poetry books as well. There is something for everyone, kids and adults alike. Head back to 62 days of summer for more ways to participate in the summer program.

Break up your mealtime routine this summer with a picnic!

Head to a park, walk right out into your backyard and lay a blanket out on the grass, or have a picnic on the floor inside your house if the weather is bad. Visit one of Canton's parks, or check the Take a Ride or Go For a Hike squares for more ideas of where to picnic. 

 

Enjoy Yourself

Keep it simple. Avoiding too much fuss will promote relaxation and give you time to enjoy yourself.

  • Let the kids help with preparations
  • Play some no sweat games like "duck, duck, goose" or  "I spy."  Check out the Backyard Fun square for more ideas
  • If you are able to picnic outside, take some time to Observe Nature 

 

Get Creative

Snap a Photo to remember your picnic or capture the beauty around you, or for something more involved, make your own picnic blanket.

Check out this Creativebug class to create a Veggie Stamp Picnic Blanket. While you're there, look at Creativebug's Summer Picnic Ideas

As we have increased our time at home over the past year, taking full advantage of summer fun in our own CPL backyard is a must! There are so many fun things to do without having to go out and spend a lot of money. Even if you invest in some new games, you can use them all summer and for years to come. Some days just sand, shovels and buckets keep the kids busy, while cooling off with some water action when it gets hot. We also have books at the library to help get some of those backyard ideas coming. Head back to 62 days of summer for more ways to participate in the summer program.

Backyard idea book by Lee Anne White

K Club: Boo Bash

The K Club is a transitional and creative program designed for children ages 4-6, pre-k through first grade. This unique program provides children with learning and recreation in the areas of science, art and reading fun. We strive to include this age group in extended activities at the library that are beyond storytime, encouraging lasting library use during their first years of school. 

Upcoming sessions

There are no upcoming sessions available.

Doorways and books go well together. Doors in literature often lead characters into wild adventures and magical outings. Likewise, our own doors and doorways can be a fantastic way to highlight and put the spotlight on some of our favorite stories and books. Bedroom doors, classroom doors, and basement doors are all a good place to start. They can become the inspired entrance to your own personal space. They can make someone wonder what lies behind it. Visionary thinking will let an ordinary door become a marvelous celebration of a favorite story. Its a great summer project that gives you a place to exercise your creativity now or in a future doorway, and celebrate a book you love in an innovative way. Head back to 62 days of Summer for more ways to participate in the summer program!

The Fourth of July, or Independence day will be here before you know it. Red, white and blue are the patriotic colors that surround this fun day of celebration. The holiday goes back to 1776 when the continental congress voted for independence as a nation, and formally adopted the Declaration of Independance. The tradition of fireworks began in Philadelphia a year later with the first organized celebration of independence day, and became even more widespread after the War of 1812. Congress made July 4th a federal holiday in 1870. Today we often celebrate independence day with barbeque's, fireworks and patriotic music. There are also  many fun craft and food ideas to help observe the festivities. Check out these books that give you celebration stories and background on this grand summer holiday. Head back to 62 days of Summer for more ways to participate in the summer program!

Let's celebrate Independence Day by Barbara DeRubertis

Llama llama Red Pajama

Start your summer off right and meet favorite storybook character Llama llama!  This popular series of books focus on family, friendship and learning new things. Come join the fun and wear your pajamas in the middle of the day! Designed for children ages 3-7. Registration begins June 10.

Upcoming sessions

There are no upcoming sessions available.

K Club: Chocolate Pizzazz

The K Club is a transitional and creative program designed for children ages 4-6, pre-k through first grade. This unique program provides children with learning and recreation in the areas of science, art and reading fun. We strive to include this age group in extended activities at the library that are beyond storytime, encouraging lasting library use during their first years of school. 

Registration required; begins December 19.

 

Upcoming sessions

There are no upcoming sessions available.

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