Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platforms provide immersive opportunities for children to interact with learning in new ways. How can libraries use VR and AR to enhance the learning experiences? Learn about various VR and AR programming such as virtual field trips, science experiments, coding, sports, and painting. An overview of interactive learning apps available on Oculus Go© and Merge Cubes©, and AR non-fiction options will be discussed.

Play with your families! When Sacramento Public Library made play the center of its early learning efforts, it immediately resounded with families, creating increased engagement, a shift in perceptions about the library, and more opportunities for staff to model and share early learning information. Learn strategies to infuse do-it-yourself play activities into outreach, programming, and library spaces and discover how to connect your community with critical early learning information through the universal appeal of play.

As the world becomes more complex and our economies become increasingly global, what happens to the children who don’t have access to cross cultural experiences? For youth who do not have the resources to travel, technology and storytelling can help bridge the experience gap while fostering social emotional learning. Learn how to use Google Maps, YouTube, and role-playing games to foster social connection, build empathy, and encourage global thinking.

Panelists will share their experiences designing early STEM projects and growing and sustaining these projects over three years following the original grant period. Participants will share their work with partners including childcare providers, Home Health Visitors, WIC clinics and more, and how they designed offerings to reach under-served populations. Grantees include county systems serving suburban and rural populations and will share their experiences reaching different demographics, including Spanish speakers, low-income families, and manufactured housing communities.