Special to The Dallas Examiner
SMART Summer, the Dallas Public Library’s popular summer children’s program, is back starting June 3. The SMART is an acronym for science, math, art, reading and technology – all activities that will be included in the program at all 30 library locations.
The library’s summer programs provide free educational experiences that may otherwise be out of reach for many families, according to Mayor Eric L. Johnson, an honorary chair for SMART Summer.
“The city of Dallas is a national leader in youth engagement,” Johnson said. “SMART Summer is one example of the incredible array of free and low-cost activities offered by the city of Dallas that will allow our kids and teens to keep cool, get active, expand their knowledge, and – most importantly – stay safe this summer.”
The program will kick off with 10 family-friendly parties to be held across the city June 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Festivities will include games, crafts giveaways and free books from Dallas ISD.
Students 18 and younger who sign up for the SMART Summer reading challenge earn a free book for every 10 days they read at least 20 minutes. Youth may enter up to five times through Aug. 12. When students have read 50 days, they will be entered in the grand prize drawings. Plus, there are online activities they can complete on their own for more chances to win.
Online registration is available at https://www.dallaslibrary.org/smartsummer.
Children can also flex their SMART skills at the weekly programs. Events include performers, such as magicians, music, live animals, hands-on projects that include cardboard engineering, games, hand-made instruments and more.
“SMART Summer has reading at its core, but the library’s programs help students practice their science and math skills as well,” Director of Libraries Jo Giudice said. “SMART Summer keeps those skills sharp.”
Adults can participate, as well. Parents and caregivers who read set a good example for their children and make reading a family value.
For more information, visit www.dallaslibrary.org/smartsummer.