Oh, June! The end of the school year and summer’s official start. June means beach time and butterflies, outdoor movies and Shakespeare under the stars. It means towering stacks of books brought home from the local library and long, lazy days lakeside savoring every chapter. Best of all, June means finally looking forward to time spent as a family outside of the wild goose chase of the school year.
That’s why in this issue, you’ll find a whole gaggle of adventures to embark on together, from fireworks displays where you can unwind every Thursday evening to sunflower mazes, where you’ll get lost in an explosion of summertime color. We’ve highlighted our top picks for where to have an educational outing and where to go for the simple joy of it.
This month also means the kick-off of the New Hanover County Library summer reading program; two months jam-packed with immersive programming and book-related challenges at our local library branches. On that note, inside you’ll find a comprehensive summer reading guide, overflowing with information on the upcoming 300-minute challenge, book-making activities, literacy tips, and of course, a full section on the benefits of summer reading for kids and teens alike.
In the recipe section, you’ll find a new special something to pack in that picnic basket on the way to the park, and our Summer Splash section gives you all the information you need to find the best beaches and water activities to cool down during long, hot days.
Here’s to a great beginning of these warm, wonderful months of summer, and to all the adventures and magic that lies ahead.
Cheers,
Publisher
Brad McCrory
brad@wilmingtonfamilymedia.com
Editor-in-Chief
Phina Pipia
phina@wilmingtonfamilymedia.com Art Director Yulia Zarubina - Brill yulia@wilmingtonfamilymedia.com
brad@wilmingtonfamilymedia.com
Opinions/Suggestions/Feedback
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Summertime Wonders
Sunflower
Maze
This gorgeous ten acres holds half a million sunflowers. Youngsters and adults alike wend their way through the maze, picking a brilliant bouquet at the same time. This outdoor adventure recurs weekly Wednesday - Sunday. Take a turn through winding paths of brilliant flowers. A favorite for local kids and adults alike.
When: Wednesday - Sunday, starting June 8th
Where: Trask Family Farms
Cost: $10 per person, 3 and under are free, pick sunflowers for an additional $2 per person
Fireworks by the Sea and Boardwalk Blast
Summer is officially in full swing with fireworks displays every Thursday evening until the final fireworks show the Friday before Labor Day. Head on down to the beach strand in front of the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where you can catch live music playing at the Gazebo stage and get a clear view of the night sky show. A great way to wrap up busy summer weeks.
When: Thursday evenings, (music at 6:30, fireworks at 9:00 pm)
Where: Beach strand in front of the historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Cost: Free
Summer Movies at the Lake
Bring your blankets and beach chairs and head to Carolina Beach Lake Park for weekly outdoor movies on the big screen. A summertime treat featuring kid-friendly screenings the whole family will enjoy. June movies include Trolls, IF, The Parent Trap, Dog Man, and Inside Out 2!
Where: Carolina Beach Lake Park
When: Sunday evenings (movies start at dusk, around 8:45 pm)
Cost: Free (snacks and drinks available for purchase)
Family Night at the Carolina Beach Lake
Every Tuesday, Carolina Beach Lake Park is alight with a unique and engaging familyfriendly celebration. Catch the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project presenting each week from 6:00 - 6:30 pm, and then entertainment, face painting, and characters from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Broccoli Brothers Duo plays June 17 and Campfireball plays June 24.
Where: Carolina Beach Lake Park
When: Tuesday Nights, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Cost: Free
Hands-On Activities
Small Wonders @ Cape Fear Museum
A free, Saturday morning program where youngsters get to discover the world through guided stories, songs, games, and hands-on activities, with new topics introduced every week.
When: Saturdays in June
Where: Cape Fear Museum
Cost: Free
Sea Stars @ The Wilmington Children’s Museum
Nurturing little marine biologists, participants explore the sea and its critters in this fun, hands-on experience for kiddos ages 4 and up.
When: Tuesdays at 10 am and 3:30 pm
Where: The Wilmington Children’s Museum
Cost: Included with museum admission (pro tip: check out a museum pass from the New Hanover County Library!)
Pleasure Island Pirate Cruise
Experience a family-friendly pirate adventure! The boat trip begins with an introduction to the true history of pirates in the Cape Fear region, and the voyage continues as everyone onboard works to find a present day pirate that has stolen your treasure. In true pirate fashion, the recovered treasure will be divided among the kids to take home. Arts and crafts time follows, with a couple of fun surprises along the way.
Where: 3:00 - 4:30 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays, June 3 - August 29
Where: Island Cruises, 301 Carl Winner Drive, Carolina Beach
Cost: Adults $36, Children aged 2 - 12 $26, Infants under 2 are free (drinks and light snacks available for purchase onboard)
For Curious Minds
Butterfly House at Airlie Gardens
Experience the magic of butterflies, all native to North Carolina, inside Airlie Gardens’
2,700-square foot native butterfly house. From Monarchs to Gulf Fritallary, visitors young and old delight in this unique chance to experience science and nature close up.
Where: Airlie Gardens
When: June 1 - September 30
Cost: Included with garden admission
Travel Exhibition
Does your youngster love trains? Are your kiddos fascinated by sailboats? Cape Fear Museum’s travel exhibition walks visitors through a treasure trove of travel-related items and navigation devices, from sailing tools to electronic gadgets. Explore how people have moved from place to place, and what has made Wilmington an important travel hub.
Where: Cape Fear Museum
When: Daily through November 30
Cost: Included with Museum Admission (pro tip: check out a museum pass from the New Hanover County Library!)
Show and “Tail” Horses at the Library!
The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office
Mounted Unit will trot over to the Northeast library to meet local youngsters. Members of the office will answer questions about their jobs, the role of these beautiful animals, and kids are invited to pet the horses.
When: Tuesday, June 10, 10:1510:45 am
Where: Northeast Library
Ages: 10 years and younger
Cost: Free! Registration encouraged
Out and About in June Arts
Abound
Shakespeare on the Green
Come on out to experience the magic of Shakespeare under the stars. Shows begin at 8:00 pm, and families are invited to come early to picnic under the pines lakeside before taking in this theatrical delight. This summer’s shows include the Adult company’s Macbeth and Youth Company’s Taming of the Shrew.
Youngsters are enchanted as they follow four siblings - Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy through a magical wardrobe and into the bewitching land of Narnia. Brought to life through the art of dance, this production is a great chance to allow your young one to experience the power of art in a whimsical, family-friendly setting.
When: Saturday, June 7th, 1:00 pm + 6:00 pm
Where: Wilson Center @ Cape Fear Community College
Cost: Tickets start at $18.94 with group discounts available
Crafty Kids @ The Wilmington Children’s Museum
Every Wednesday at 3:30 pm, kids gather for an immersive afternoon of hands-on crafting with all kinds of upcycled, recycled, and engaging materials.
When: 3:30 pm on Wednesdays
Where: Wilmington Children’s Museum
Cost: Included with museum admission (pro tip: check out a museum pass from the New Hanover County Library!)
Book-Lovers Corner!
A monthly showcase of great books young readers absolutely love, hand-picked by tutoring experts, librarians, children’s authors, and of course, parents like you! With special recommendations for toddlers, early readers, middle grades, and teens, this section is jam-packed each month with books that will capture your child’s imagination and ignite a lifelong love of literature.
Books About Reading and Writing
Moose’s Book Bus
By Inga Moore
An enchantingly illustrated book where Moose’s library outing soon has the whole woodland community crowding into his house to read together.
The Fantastic Flying Books for Mr. Morris Lessmore
By William Joyce, Illustrated by Joe Bluhm
This modern masterpiece is a celebration of stories, brought to readers by one of the preeminent creators in children’s literature today.
Library Lion
By Michelle Knudsen,
illustrated by Kevin Hawkes
The head librarian is very particular about rules in the library, but when a lion comes to the library one day, no one is sure what to do.
June Splash!
Surf, swim, and sail this summer with Wilmington’s wealth of aquatic activities and educational opportunities. Coastal living means having a million different ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of the water, and whether you and your kiddos feel like building sand castles or embarking on a kayaking adventure, Wilmington has it all.
Remember, any activity on the water - whether it’s a beach picnic or a surfing lesson - carries more safety considerations than some other pastimes. Luckily, Wilmington is literally overflowing with experts who teach swimming, sailing, aquatic leadership, and every other aspect of water safety you can think of.
So, whether you take a few days to head to Topsail Island to truly appreciate coastal beauty or get into the habit of a monthly kayaking expedition, this summer is a great time to pack your towel and your sunhat, and ride the waves of inspiration as a family. Ahoy!
Where to Get Your Feet Wet This Season…
Indo Jax Surf School
With highly qualified instructors dedicated to sharing the joy of surfing in a fun, supportive, and safe learning environment, kiddos and adults alike can dive into this immersive sport with expert guidance.
Tony Silvagni Surf School
Owned by an Olympic gold medalist, all instructors are CPR/AED certified and focus on staying safe and having fun in the water. Open April through September, this full-service school also offers kayak tours and equipment rentals.
Jungle Rapids Water Park
A knock-your-socks-off amusement park with water park activities, go-kart course, laser tag, jungle gym and arcade games. Jungle Rapids provides all the summertime fun packed into one, awesome location.
Topsail Island
A breathtaking beach area with a small-town vibe, Topsail Island is a one-hour jaunt from Wilmington, and makes an excellent day-trip with a little something for the whole family. Stay for a night in one of the area’s beautiful beach houses and stop by the coasts’ fascinating sea turtle hospital.
Masonboro Island
Home to dozens of wildlife species, hop on the ferry boat and take a trip across the water to visit this island state park. Sitting between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, this is the largest untouched barrier island in the region. Remember to bring snacks, water, and bathroom articles with you, as this island has no services.
Wrightsville SUP
Choose from stand up paddle boards, kayak rentals, and outrigger canoes at this full-service water sports rental location that also offers lessons and tours. A great way to explore our beautiful coastline up-close.
Wrightsville Beach Kayak
- Kayaking to Shark Tooth Island!!!
Embark on a fossil and tooth hunting expedition on a kayaking day you’ll never forget. With guides that provide you in-depth information while giving you space to explore on your own, participants young and old love these handson adventures.
YMCA Public Pools Swimming Lessons
Swing by either the Legion Stadium Pool or the Robert Strange Pool for swimming lessons, water aerobics, water safety programs, swim teams, aquatic leadership programs, or any of the myriad other fun water activities the pools offer throughout the summer.
Wilmington Swim Academy
In operation for more than forty years, the Wilmington Swim Academy offers swim lessons for participants ages 3 and up, has swim clinics, and an invitation-only swim team. An excellent option for youngsters with ambitions of achieving a competitive swimming level.
Blockade Runner Sailing School
An ASA Certified Sailing School with certifications available in basic Keel Boat Sailing and basic Coastal Cruising. Learn nautical terminology, sailing theory, basic knots, proper sailboat rigging, basic maneuvers, and more.
Wrightsville Performance Sailing
A member of US Sailing, WPS offers Basic Keelboat Courses, introductory courses, and private instruction. A great place for novices to dig in and learn to appreciate the beauty of this sport, pastime, and profession.
Summer at Your Library: READ, LEARN, DISCOVER!
There’s nothing like those long, sunny days of summer to nurture kids’ love of reading, and the New Hanover County Library is here to make the summer reading season magical for young readers of all ages. This year, the library hosts two months of programming jam-packed with immersive, learningfilled fun designed to spark inspiration in your child.
The 300-Minute Summer Reading Challenge: June + July
Every year, libraries around the country host reading challenges, and New Hanover County has set their challenge for youngsters. Read 300 minutes and earn a prize - with opportunities throughout to celebrate reading milestones. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate your child’s reading accomplishments and nurture their love for books.
Here’s how it works:
1. Pick Up Your Packet: Swing by any of the 4 New Hanover County Libraries to pick up your child’s summer reading packet, filled with gifts like a free kids’ meal and ice cream cone, bingo sheets, and all the information you might need about the summer reading challenge.
2. Download the Beanstack App: The beloved app that gamifies reading by tracking children’s progress and awarding badges at each 30-minute milestone, Beanstack is easy-to-download to your mobile device or can be just as easily used on a desktop computer. With different reading challenges throughout the year, the New Hanover County Library’s summer reading challenge will be live on Beanstack in June and July, and the race to read is on!
3. Read! Read! Read! Children’s qualifying minutes can be any kind of reading they choose, from novels about faraway fairy castles to nonfiction books about dinosaurs. They can also be read to by a parent, guardian, or even an older sibling, or gain qualifying minutes by listening to audiobooks. You will find suggested reads by grade level on the Beanstack app, and even better, swing by one of the New Hanover Library branches to ask a librarian!
4. Earn Badges + Prizes: Young readers will earn in-app activity badges for every 30 minutes they read, and many badges will link back to the library calendar highlighting upcoming hands-on events and programs. These badges are like minirewards, designed to give your child a boost of confidence as they work towards their reading goals.
5. Celebrate the Accomplishment: At the end of August, kids who complete all 300 minutes of the challenge will be invited to swing by any of the library branches to have their photo taken for display, earn a prize, and also get a free Tadpole Mini Italian Ice from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. The New Hanover County Library is excited to celebrate the achievements of young readers, and to invest in their reading in future.
Not-to-Be-Missed Program Highlights
Summer Reading Kickoff!
When: Saturday, June 7, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where: Long Leaf Park, Shelter 6 Youngsters and their guardians are invited to swing by for a celebratory morning kicking off the summer reading season. Children will get to choose a free book, receive their very own backpack to decorate, and pick up their summer reading packet. Listen to family-friendly music and check out all the fun activities hosted by our community sponsors, including the Fire Department, the Sherrif’s Department which will be doing kids’ ID cards, Cameron Art Museum, The Children’s Museum of Wilmington, Seahawk SAM, and Paws for People will have dogs for kiddos to meet
NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher Presents Nature’s Coloring Book
When: Sunday, June 15, 3:00 pm
Where: Northeast Library
Cameron Art Museum
When and Where:
Saturday, June 14, 11:00 am @ Pleasure Island Library
Saturday, June 21, 11:00 am @ Main Library
Saturday, July 19, 10:00 am @ Pine Valley Library
Puppet Making Workshop
When: Wednesday, June 25, 3:00 pm
Where: Pine Valley Library
Cape Fear Museum Presents Lego Print Making
When and Where:
Wednesday, July 2, 2:00 pm @ Main Library
Wednesday, July 9, 2:00 pm @ Northeast Library
Wednesday, July 16, 2:00 pm @ Pleasure Island Library
Wednesday, July 23, 2:00 pm @ Pine Valley Library
Airlie Gardens Presents Butterfly Adventure!
When and Where:
Friday, July 11, 2:00 pm @ Main Library
Friday, July 18, 2:00 pm @ Pine Valley Library
Friday, July 25, 2:00 pm @ Pleasure Island Library
Dare Devil Improv
When: Friday, July 11, 3:00 pm
Where: Pleasure Island Library
Why is Summer Reading So Important?
In summertime, building a healthy habit around reading becomes incredibly important. “Reading during the summer prevents that ‘summer slide’, helping younger kids keep up their reading fluency and giving older kids the opportunity to enrich their vocabulary and keep them engaged,” says New Hanover County Senior Librarian, Susan DeMarco. “And of course, summer is an opportunity to discover the joy of reading. Kids typically read what they’re required to during the year. During the summer months, they have the opportunity to pursue what excites and enchants them.”
According to the National Education Association, the “Summer Slide” can see students losing about two months of reading achievement. Programs like the New Hanover County Library’s Summer Reading Program combat that setback, while providing an ideal way to ignite your child’s passion for what they love to read, develop a daily habit around reading in your home, and expand your child’s world through books.
The summer reading challenge plays another important role, it introduces a wealth of hands-on activities and programs that provide context for the books your child is reading. Read a book on physics and then stop by the library to participate in one of the STEM workshops. Read a book on art, and then swing by to take part in the Cameron Art Museum’s immersive programs. This interplay between children’s hands-on experiences and the experiences they have through books is important.
“Experiences where they’re in a new environment and learning something new helps build context while children read and gives them background knowledge about the world,” says DeMarco, “by reading, they’re able to better absorb the information and activities in the programs, while participating in the programs boosts their reading abilities and the joy they find in books and stories.”
BOOK BENEFITS: The Lasting Impact of Reading Out Loud
Why Read to My Child?
Research from Ohio State University has found that young children whose parents read one book to them daily have been exposed to at least 290,000 more words by the time they enter kindergarten than kids who aren’t read to regularly. In fact, children whose parents read them five books each day enter kindergarten having heard about 1.4 million more words than kids who were never read to.
“This isn’t about everyday communication,” said the study’s author, Jessica Logan, “The words kids hear in books are going to be much more complex, difficult words than they hear just talking to their parents and others at home.”
Brain scans show that hearing stories strengthens the part of a child’s brain associated with visual imagery, story comprehension, and word meaning. And, the benefits go even further. According to the author of the study, Reading Aloud, Play and Social-Emotional Development, “When parents read with their children more… they learn to use words to describe their feelings that are otherwise difficult and this enables them to better control their behavior when they have challenging feelings like anger or sadness.”
In addition to the academic and emotional wellbeing linked to reading, reading aloud to children has also been found to strengthen the parent-child bond, and has a positive relationship impact that can enhance all the other time spent together.
3 Tips for Reading Aloud:
1. Read Often: Studies show that daily reading has effects that influence youngsters for the rest of their lives. Make a habit out of reading before bedtime, and don’t limit yourself to reading at the end of the day. Keep a few books in your backpack to pull out when waiting for dance class to start, or get in the habit of a stop at the local library for an afternoon story break.
2. Notice the Pictures: Very young children will be able to comprehend the illustrations in picture books before they are able to master all the words. Take time to look at what’s happening in the illustrations and discover all the details. So many storybooks have world-class imagery, and the visual cues youngsters pick up from these pictures are critical.
3. Talk About It: The conversations generated by reading together can have as much of an impact on children as the books themselves. Suddenly, you’re talking about things you might not have discussed previously; Penguins! Trains! Emotions! This will reinforce new vocabulary words that kids are hearing and may even introduce even more words. This positive, cyclical effect can be a game changer for youngsters who are quickly developing and learning about the world.
Making Books With Children
When my son was three, we began making little books together. He loved to draw and tell imaginative stories, and I was learning to make handmade books. It was a spontaneous moment that brought our interests together, but it grew into something meaningful. Over time, it became a cherished way for us to connect, create, and share our ideas. Now, years later, all of those little books we made together are among my most treasured possessions.
Our first book was The Adventures of Prince So-low-la-low-la. I sewed three pages together using a simple figure-eight stitch. He dictated the story to me, and he illustrated it with pencil and crayon:
Once upon a time, there was a prince named So-low-la-low-la who had a pony named Dapple Grey, and a duck called Kawe Beauty. One day, he couldn’t find Dapple Grey, so he set out across the river riding on the back of Kawe. When he reached
the other side, he found a beautiful apple tree filled with delicious fruit. He picked all the apples he could find and then wandered into a meadow.
Suddenly, he heard a rustling behind him, and there was Dapple Grey! He rode Dapple Grey to the river, found a ferry, and took Dapple Grey, Kawe, and the apples across. He brought the apples to his mother, and she made many pies and other delicious sauces.
That first book was the start of a creative journey that lasted throughout his childhood.
Why Make Books With Children?
Handmade books are more than just a creative project.
• They Encourage Self-Expression: Kids can tell their own stories, share their thoughts, or explore their favorite topics.
• Build Fine Motor Skills: Folding, sewing, and drawing help develop hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
• Foster Connection: Bookmaking is a collaborative activity that strengthens bonds between parent and child.
• Create Lasting Memories: The books you make together become cherished keepsakes, capturing a moment in time.
The Ages and Stages of Bookmaking With Children and Youth
Ages 3 to 6
This is the perfect age to start bookmaking. Young children’s drawings and stories are vibrant, full of life, and uninhibited. Simple blank books are ideal at this stage. Let them dictate their stories to you or experiment with writing on their own without worrying about spelling. Provide a variety of tools—crayons, markers, colored pencils, and watercolors—to keep their creativity flowing.
Ages 7 to 10
By now, children are independent enough to create books on their own. Their interests and favorite topics will often guide their projects—whether it’s sports, fantasy, or fan fiction inspired by their favorite stories. Repetition of themes is common and should be encouraged as part of their creative exploration. Introduce new book forms like origami books, pop-ups, explosion boxes, or junk journals to keep their enthusiasm alive.
Ages 11 and Up
At this stage, bookmaking becomes a more sophisticated
outlet for self-expression. Encourage them to explore a wider range of art forms and techniques, from poetry and calligraphy to graphic arts and songwriting. Share your own creative projects and inspirations to spark conversations and ideas. Respect their need for privacy if bookmaking becomes a personal creative space, and continue introducing new materials and methods.
As They Grow
For kids ages 7 and up, bookmaking becomes a way to explore storytelling, themes, and even concepts. Here are some ideas to spur them along:
• Storyboarding and Comics: Encourage kids to think visually by creating storyboards for comics. They can sketch out scenes, add dialogue, and experiment with pacing.
• World-Building: For kids who love fantasy or adventure, worldbuilding books are a wonderful project. They can map out imaginary lands, create character profiles, and write backstories for their worlds.
• Thematic Books: Explore themes that interest your child, such as nature or animals.
• Lap Books: Create interactive, fold-out books with flaps, pockets, and mini-books focused on a single topic.
• Journals and Diaries: Older kids may enjoy creating journals or diaries to record their thoughts, dreams, or daily experiences.
Creating a Bookmaking Station
A well-organized station doesn’t have to be elaborate— just functional and inviting.
What You’ll Need:
• A sturdy table with good lighting
• A storage box for supplies
• A separate box for books in progress
• Assorted papers in various weights and decorative patterns
Start small with 30-minute sessions to explore materials and techniques. Keep the atmosphere low-pressure—let them come to the table at their own pace. Often, I’ll start working on a book myself, and before long, curious hands want to join in.
Avoid over-scheduling or turning it into a chore. Keep it special by putting everything away after each session, so the activity retains its novelty. For younger children, once-a-week sessions work well, while older kids may enjoy more frequent opportunities to create. The key is to let it grow naturally, following their interest and energy levels.
Book and Binding Types
There are so many ways to make books, from simple to intricate. Here are a few beginner-friendly options to get you started:
• Figure Eight Binding: A basic sewing technique perfect for little hands.
• Stab Binding: A traditional Japanese method that’s simple yet visually striking.
• Accordion Books: Fun and versatile, with pages that unfold like an accordion.
• Explosion Boxes: A surprising format that “explodes” with content when opened.
• Origami Books: Folded books made from a single sheet of paper—great for quick projects.
Each type offers unique possibilities for storytelling and design, so experiment to find what excites your child the most. Try a few online tutorials to get the hang of making different styles of books.
Special Effects: Adding Magic to Books
Take your books to the next level with interactive elements and special effects. These additions can make books even more engaging and fun to create:
• Secret doors or flaps
• Envelopes and pockets for hidden treasures
• Pop-up stages or characters
• Fold-out maps or diagrams
These features encourage kids to think outside the box and add layers of creativity to their projects.
Parents and Creativity: Growing Alongside Your Child
Bookmaking isn’t just for kids—it’s also a wonderful opportunity for parents to explore their own creativity and build confidence.
• Embrace the Process, Not Perfection: Focus on enjoying the process rather than worrying about the outcome.
• Work Through Art Traumas: If you’ve ever felt “I’m not an artist,” bookmaking is a great way to change that narrative.
• Share Your Own Stories: Use bookmaking as a way to share your own memories, thoughts, or creative ideas.
• Model Curiosity and Growth: Show your child that learning is a lifelong process by trying new techniques and experimenting with materials.
Exploring Other Art Forms Through Book Arts
Book arts offer the perfect opportunity to explore a variety of art forms in a single project. Kids can experiment with:
• Collage: Use old magazines, newspapers, or scraps of decorative paper to create vibrant, layered pages.
• Painting: Incorporate watercolor washes or acrylic details for colorful, textured effects.
• Mixed Media: Combine materials like fabric, thread, or natural objects (leaves, pressed flowers) to make tactile, sensory-rich books. By combining art forms, children not only expand their creative skills but also discover new ways to express themselves.
Talking
About Art: Encouraging Reflection
When your child shares their artwork with you, try engaging them in meaningful conversations rather than offering praise.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: “Can you tell me about this part of your drawing?”
• Notice Effort and Process: Acknowledge their effort: “I noticed you worked really hard on this pattern.”
How Book Arts Lead to Connection Through Creativity
Bookmaking is more than an artistic activity; it’s a way to build relationships and foster meaningful connections. When you sit down with your child to create a book, you’re sharing time, attention, and ideas. Collaborative projects encourage teamwork, communication, and mutual understanding.
As children grow, these shared creative experiences can deepen your bond. A handmade book becomes a reminder of the time you spent together, the stories you told, and the memories you made..
How to Make a Simple Figure Eight Book
The figure-eight stitch is an easy and satisfying way to bind a book. It’s perfect for beginners and creates a sturdy little booklet.
Materials:
• 3–5 sheets of paper for pages
• 1 sheet of heavier paper for the cover
• Embroidery floss or thin yarn
• Sharp tapestry needle
• Bookbinding awl (optional for easier hole-making)
• Scissors
Steps:
1. Stack 3-6 papers (more or less depending on thickness).
2. Place the stack on top of the cover and fold all in half, making a crease.
3. Unfold papers, punch three holes (A,B,C) equal distance apart through the spine.
4. Begin sewing by entering Hole B from the outside cover and ending up inside the book.
5. Sew out through Hole C, back in through Hole A, then back out through Hole B.
6. Both string ends should be on the outside, one on either side of the long stitch running down the spine. Use the string ends to tie a square knot over the long stitch.
Books about Bookmaking
• Making Books That Fly, Fold, Wrap, Hide, Pop Up, Twist, and Turn: Books for Kids to Make by Gwen Diehn
• A Book of One’s Own: Developing Literacy Through Making Books by Paul Johnson
• The Art of the Fold: How to Make Innovative Books and Paper Structures by Hedi Kyle and Ulla Warchol
Sarah McElroy is a mom of two grown sons, a proud grandmother, and happily married. With years of experience as a teacher, parenting educator, and recipe developer, Sarah is devoted to sharing practical wisdom that helps families create happy, healthy lives. Passionate about all things cozy, she finds joy in reading, coloring, gardening, and baking, and loves inspiring others to weave simple pleasures into their daily routines.
Peanut Butter Protein Balls
By Natalie Archer
Ready to Make the Best Snack Ever?
(Makes Approximately 20 Balls)
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup cacao nibs or chocolate chips
3 Tbs + 1 tsp pure maple syrup
2 Tbs ground flaxseed
1 Tbs + 1 tsp chia seeds
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
Place all ingredients together in a bowl and mix until all are combined. Depending on the consistency of your peanut butter, you might need to throw the mix into the fridge for about 15 minutes to harden before forming them.
Using a spoon, scoop the mixture and form into 1 inch balls, or whatever size you like. I would recommend “forming” them and not rolling them into balls, it’s easier considering the consistency of the mixture.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer (freezer recommended)!
In Pursuit
Our Recipeof-the-Month
As parents, we’re always on the lookout for those magical, hard-to-spot recipes that our youngsters will not only eat, but ask for again and again. Our recipe-of-the-month is always quick and easy to prepare, knockyour-socks-off yummy, and packs a nutritious punch that keeps your hungry kiddos healthy, strong, and yes, coming back for seconds.
Aquick, no-bake snack packed with energy and flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, natural peanut butter, chia and flax seeds, they’re perfect for fueling workouts or curbing cravings between meals. They are super easy to make and are a convenient on-the-go option for a healthy lifestyle!
I recommend using peanut butter that is extra creamy so the balls don’t end up too dry and is easier to combine with the other ingredients. These delicious treats should be stored in the freezer for maximum freshness and longevity.
