Children’s Chess Club

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Children of all skill levels are invited to play chess with the JPL Children’s Department and the Joplin Area Chess Club! We meet once a month for approximately 30 minutes to learn, play, and have fun.

Ages 6-12

Dog Day Afternoon

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Dog Day Afternoon is designed to help newly independent readers become more comfortable reading! Children will have the opportunity to read to one of our sweet therapy dogs and their owner in a quiet, non-threatening environment (each child will read for approximately 8 minutes, though the exact time depends on the number of therapy dogs and children in attendance).

(During this program, children have the opportunity to read to the dogs on their own. We ask that parents/caregivers watch through our large window. For this reason, we ask that children are independent readers and are comfortable with this set up.)

Suggested age: K-5th grade

Registration is suggested and will begin the morning of by phone or in person (417-623-7953). Spaces are limited.

LEGO Build-a-thon

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Collaborate, build, and explore your creative side!

Suggested age range: Ages 5-12. Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult.

Young Artists Club

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Learn about great artists and create your own art in their styles!

This program is designed for children ages 8-12 and registration is required. Register via phone (417-623-7953) or email (childrens@joplinpubliclibrary.org) beginning the first of each month.

1-2-3, Play with Me!

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A 5 week program for parents/caregivers and children ages 1-3 that offers one hour of playtime in a group atmosphere.

Participants will have opportunities to speak with local experts in the areas of child development, speech and language, nutrition, early literacy, and physical development.

Registration is required due to limited capacity, and we ask parents and caregivers to commit to all 5 weeks of the program.

Register via phone (417-623-7953) or email (childrens@joplinpubliclibrary.org)

Read and Play Toddler Hour 2

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Join the Children’s Department in summer 2023 for toddler storytimes! This fun storytime geared towards 0-2 year olds and their families includes reading, singing, rhyming, and connection.

No registration or library card required to attend.

Read and Play Toddler Hour 1

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Join the Children’s Department in summer 2023 for toddler storytimes! This fun storytime geared towards 0-2 year olds and their families includes reading, singing, rhyming, and connection.

No registration or library card required to attend.

Saturday STEAM

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Explore high and low tech STEAM activities in this hands-on, child-led program!

Suggested age range: 6-12

(Children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult)

Read and Play Preschool Hour 2

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Join the Children’s Department in 2023 for preschool storytimes! This fun storytime geared towards 3-5 year olds and their families includes reading, singing, moving, dancing, and playing!

No registration or library card required to attend.

Read and Play Preschool Hour 1

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Join the Children’s Department in 2023 for preschool storytimes! This fun storytime geared towards 3-5 year olds and their families includes reading, singing, moving, dancing, and playing!

No registration or library card required to attend.