Avoiding Perfectionism

Freeing our families from perfectionism by Thomas S. Greenspon ; edited by Pat Samples — Do you expect too much of yourself or your kids? Do you have a hard time relaxing? These tendencies can be a few of the problems that result from perfectionism, which is a problem for many families. This book will teach you what perfectionism is not and help you free your family from this burden that can take a heavy toll on self-esteem, relationships, and energy.

Popcorn Poets

This fun program will be for kids that love poems and kids who don't. We will look at "giggle poetry" for kids online, answer some riddles and vote on our favorite silly poems, while enjoying popcorn. This program is for kids third through fifth grade. Register online beginning March 26.
When: Tuesday, April 24, 7:00-7:45 PM
[Popcorn! by Andrew Rivett is licensed under CC BY 2.0]

Family History

Do you know anything about your family history?  For example, many families have  descendants that came to America through Ellis Island in New York. April 17 is "Ellis Island Family History Day." More immigrants were processed on this day in 1907, than any other day in history. The statue of liberty was the first glimpse of America for millions of immigrants. Ellis island has a unique and interesting history as America's immigration station with a lot of family history to offer.

Eating Together

Who has time for family dinners anymore? We all do, according to author Miriam Weinstein in The Surprising Power of Family Meals. The benefits of eating a meal together are astounding, considering you don't have to sign-up, register, or pay for them outside of your grocery budget. Family meals are available, modest and valuable to your family. At a meal children can learn manners, family values, and good conversation. It's a great time for families to slow down and re-group.

Reliable George

George did it by Suzanne Tripp Jurmain ; illustrated by Larry Day — Do you ever get nervous about a big job you have been asked to do? George Washington did. Americans wanted George to be the first President of the United States, and George didn't want to do it. He was nervous about this huge job and all that it entailed. But George was a humble and reliable man, and he put aside his own feelings to help his new country when they needed him. A true hero, George Washington's birthday is on February 22.

For the Birds

Birds of a feather by Jane Yolen — Striking photographs are what caught my eye right away on Jane Yolen's new book. This book has 14 spirited poems about familiar, as well as less common birds in the Eastern U.S. Each poem is matched with a photograph of the bird with realistic colors and sharp details. Yolen has written over 300 books for children and won many medals for her work.

Let's Explore!

Into the unknown: how great explorers found their way by land, sea, and air by Stewart Ross — Brave explorers have vivid stories to tell and they range from sailing on the oceans to landing on the moon. This book takes a fascinating look at the adventures of many great explorers. Fresh storytelling and unfolding cutaways and cross sections keep the reader engaged.

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