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Boston's Best Library Programs For Kids

Boston Public Library
(Photo Credit: Boston Public Library)

The Boston Public Library system has hours of programming for children everyday. Those programs are always changing, and special events are making their way to the various branches. Children of all ages and all needs will find something interesting to do at the BPL. Even outdoor and calm athletic pursuits like yoga are on the agenda, so be sure to keep checking the website's schedule for updates on existing and upcoming programs.

Chess
Codman Square Branch
690 Washington St.
Dorchester, MA 02124
(617) 436-8214
www.bpl.org

Many of the Boston Public Library's branches offer chess and chess checkers for children of all ages. The Codman Square Branch offers regular chess for kids to play and learn. Be sure to check the main schedule to see which branches are offering what if Codman is out of the way. Chess is a classic game that promotes strategizing and patience, and children can really benefit from regular games and practice.

Related: Boston History Lover's Guide To The Boston Public Library

LEGO/LEGO Builders Clubs
Central Library
700 Boylston St.
Boston MA 02116
(617) 859-2476
www.bpl.org

LEGO is not just a popular toy. It is also a great way to learn the basics of building, increase motor skills and make friends. Kids who love these little toys will love the LEGO groups offered at the BPL's central library. Several branches have clubs for little builders. LEGOs are often provided, enough for a set number of children, but kids who have their own sets they want to construct can bring their own blocks. Registration is currently unnecessary.

Reading Readiness
Egleston Square Branch
2044 Columbus Ave.
Roxbury, MA 02119
(617) 445-4340
www.bpl.org

One of the main focuses of any good library system is literacy. Boston's public libraries are no different. Story time and literacy programs for children are abundant throughout the system. The Egleston Square Branch has a special seasonal program that promotes literacy in children. It can help children who are having difficulty reading, are new to school or who just like books. Reading comprehension skills learned will give children a leg up in class.

Garden Club
Mattapan Branch
1350 Blue Hill Ave.
Mattapan, MA 02126
(617 298-9218
www.bpl.org

Gardening is more than a hobby. It can help children learn to grow their own food and care for their own outdoor space. The Boston Public Library's Mattapan branch has a gardening club for children. Those who participate should prepare to get dirty because the Garden Club digs around in the library's garden. Kids will learn how to plant and care for fruits and vegetables in the library's garden when the seasons are right.

Related: Boston's Best Spring Break Activities For Kids

First Art
South Boston Branch
646 East Broadway St.
South Boston, MA 02127
(617) 268-0180
www.bpl.org

Another skill often explored throughout Boston's public library system is art. First Art at the South Boston Branch is all about learning to work with new media and having fun. Kids will be using paints, so be sure to dress them in play clothes that can get dirty. The idea is to let kids play with mixing mediums and creating for the sake of it without a particular end result in mind. Therefore, kids of all skills can participate and have fun.

Shelly Barclay is a professional freelance writer and amateur author. She writes on a variety of topics from food to mysteries. She loves to share the culture and rich history of her birthplace and home, Boston, with the rest of the world. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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