written by Chantale, staff member, Keshen Goodman Public Library
Looking for safe and engaging events for your weeklong break? A lot of families are understandably feeling burnt out on ideas for fun, free activities to keep the kids entertained, but never fear—the Library’s got you covered! Check out eight of our top suggestions offered by Halifax Public Libraries for March Break 2021. Whether you're keen to stay home and sit back, or venture out for an event in nature, we think you'll find something to delight you. Explore more March Break features here, opens a new window.
1. Virtual Headliners
POP! bOoM! BAM! Fires, explosive sounds, and foamy overflows were always an exciting treat to experience in our normally quiet, relaxing Library branches during March Break madness. Although we can’t gather in a tight-knit crowd to see these time-honoured activities in branch this year, you CAN still see them from the safety and comfort of your own home. We’re offering the following marquee events with fabulous March Break performers in our Virtual Library. Click the links below to learn more and register ASAP!
Mad Science: Let's Get Chemical!
Join us via Zoom to test out all sorts of spectacular reactions. For some experiments, kids will follow along at home and for others, our Mad Scientist will do them on her own for kids to watch. From colour changes to fizzy foamy fun, and even some dancing raisins, get ready to be amazed while you learn! Event listing provides a full list of necessary supplies for families who wish to participate in the interactive portions.
Drum Beats
Join Dr. Henry Bishop to discover the many benefits of drumming. This all ages, fun-filled workshop will teach participants how to play percussion instruments together and virtually. Discover and learn exciting traditional rhythms as you play along with Dr. B on anything that will make a sound. You could use a small bucket, old pot, or the top of your desk…whatever you want, but mostly let's have fun! Drumming can build coordination and dexterity and most importantly, help lift your spirits during this socially-distant March Break.
Applefun Puppetry Presents: Forest Trek
Boldly go where few puppets have gone before. The forest is a peaceful place, until some silly space explorers arrive. Join Applefun Puppetry for 45 minutes of interactive fun. Afterwards, everyone learns how to make a paper puppet.
Saint Patrick's Day Storytime with Sophie the Dog
Do you love puppies? So do we! Join us for a Saint Patrick's Day Storytime with our Paws to Read friends, Judy and her dog Sophie. There will be songs and stories for your family to enjoy. And, you're in luck: sweet Sophie will be there. Woof!
Virtual Escape Rooms
Go on a virtual adventure, courtesy of creative Library staff member, Ali. Take on the challenge of a Pokémon, Harry Potter, or Mandalorian-themed Escape Room—all from the comfort of home.
2. Outdoor Games
Take a break from the big screen and join us outside with your mobile device.
Pokémon Go Meet-Ups
Start practicing your curveballs now, because we’re dropping lures at several branches on Saturday, March 13 in order to help that Pikachu choose YOU. Fresh air and safely distant fellow Pokémon fans. What could be better? Don’t forget to pop inside the branch to pick up a couple of take-home Poke-crafts while you’re on site. Not interested in coming inside? No problem - call ahead, and we’ll bring a craft kit out to the parking lot for you!
Jerome the Gnome's Outdoor Escape Room
After a long 2020 full of quarantine naps, our Keshen Goodman Gnome woke up to discover a magic spell was placed on the Library while he was staying the blazes home… Our books have been locked inside the branch! Jerome needs your help to let them escape.
For kids, teens, or family groups of 10 or less, this outdoor event requires a smartphone or tablet (yours or ours) and must be registered in advance for a one-hour timeslot. Follow Jerome on his quest by searching for clues in Keshen Goodman’s beautiful seasonal window murals to solve the secret code word that unlocks the virtual doors and sets the books free, back where they belong. Groups who successfully help our books escape within one hour from their adventure start time will be entered into a prize draw.
3. Video Game Meet-Ups
Don your most fashionable Able Sisters outfit and catch a seaplane to HPL Island during one of our several virtual video game meet-ups this week! These events require the home use of the associated video game and console. Facilitated by Library staff, registrants receive instructions for how to virtually meet up in game and socialize with other players. Kids ages 8-12 are invited to register and join us in Animal Crossing or Minecraft. Teens can sign up for meet ups in Fortnite Creative, Injustice 2, and NBA 2K21.
4. STEAM Series
Skyscrapers, spectroscopes, and pantographs… Oh my! Join us for a special March Break edition of Full STEAM Ahead. This accessible, virtual series explores the wonderful world of Science, Technology, Art, Engineering, and Mathematics. Projects include commonly found household items, and are listed in advance of the program so that families can make sure to have supplies on hand during the registered Zoom meeting.
5. Take Home Craft Kits / Activity Packs
Grab one of our take-home craft kits when you drop by for books and movies. Keshen Goodman starts the week with offerings of paper flower bouquets and a lovely blue rain cloud project, while Musquodoboit Harbour has prepared some lucky St. Patrick’s Day kits to celebrate all things green. Available both in branch and via Curbside Pick-up, selection and availability of kits varies by branch. Don’t forget to grab one of our monthly activity sheet packs with take home crayons, while you’re at it.
6. Borrow to Create
If you’re reading this, you’re likely already aware of the awesome variety of books and DVDs that we can lend you. But, did you know you can also borrow a robot? Or a musical instrument? Check out one of these unique items to help engage your creative skills this March Break. Be they artistic, musical, or coding related.
Sun Life Musical Instrument Collection
Ukuleles, keyboards, and guitars are all available for at home musical experimentation. Looking for an accessible item that’s most suitable for children or families with little musical experience? Try a percussion item like the bongos or a cajón. Bonus fun points if you put your newly found Dr. Bishop drumming skills to use here, too!
Take-Home Tech Kits
This free program allows you to bring home your very own robot friend, for engaging, educational fun. Although most kits require the combined use of a device or tablet, the Ozobot will also work without. Kids use markers to draw silly designs on paper so that the Ozobot will travel along the linework, reading colored patterns to enact different movements.
7. Books and Beyond
Our Kids and Teens staff-curated lists are a hit for all, no matter your interests. Explore by topic or activity, and let your mind soar!
8. At-Home Activities
Our staff have become pros at creating engaging online content over the past year. Explore some of our favourite at-home crafting, imagination-based, and creative activities for youth of all ages.
