Newark Mommies Hit It Big with their Big Bash

On March 5th, families lined up at Newark Public Library to attend the Building on Books Big Book Bash. The event was the conclusion to a monthly series of story times and arts and crafts. Created by Newark Mommies in partnership with the Newark Public Library, and funded with the help of an Art Start grant from the Newark Arts Council, the Big Book Bash featured stories being read by Newark moms, dads and grandparents. Grandmother to two Newark children, Patricia Robinson read "Where the Wild Things Are "and was accompanied on the stage by a Wild Thing. The room was silent as Newark dad, Hector Herrera, read the story of Mr. Bojangles, "Rap A Tap Tap" and children and parents giggled listening to BJ Novak's "Book With No Pictures." 

Guests in attendance also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of craft tables manned by some dedicated volunteers that included school teachers, HS and college students and, of course, Newark family members. Lovers of "Chicka Chicka Boom" created letter trees at a table staffed by Newark mom Kati and son Gabriel, while another table allowed fans of "Where the Wild Things Are" to recreate Max's crown and roar their terrible roars! 



One of the most amazing ongoing features of the Big Book Bash was the presence of local artist, Khari Ricks, whose live watercolor painting of the event will become an artwork to be donated to the Newark Public Library's children's room. Participants were encouraged to help the artist by painting popsicle sticks that will be incorporated into the framing of the artist's final piece. At the same time, Khari took a few moments to also guide the many little hands volunteering to help him with his watercolor masterpiece. 

While the books and crafts were undoubtedly the event highlight, many parents also walked away with prizes that included Turtle Back Zoo membership, family trips to Liberty Science Center, reading baskets from the Newark Public Library and memberships to online learning sites like Speakaboos and ABC Mouse. A parent joked that the prizes alone were incentive to show up but they stayed because their children were thoroughly enjoying themselves.  For families that didn't win, there were also gift bags that included art starter kits and new books provided by the City of Newark, Office of Comprehensive Community Education.

When asked why they created the event, Newark Mommies commented that they "wanted to create quality toddler programming that incorporates learning and fun" and managed to entertain their personal loves of books and arts and crafts. That sentiment was reflected by the hundreds of families in attendance who stayed for the three hour event, even delaying naptimes. And all parents know NAPS are a big deal. After having a pizza lunch, the families began to leave and Newark Mommies quickly set about planning their next event. Stay tuned!

To learn more about Newark Mommies and future programs, visit: NewarkMommies.com