As the new year continues to roll on, February brings with it events such as Groundhog Day, Presidents Day, Valentine’s Day, and Super Bowl Sunday; all of which will be celebrated here at Explore & More. It is also, of course, the month-long celebration of Black History Month.

Our organization will continue its tradition of celebrating Black history and culture throughout the month of February. Throughout the year, the Education Team honors African American culture and history through activities and events that elevate Black voices. February still remains distinctive, however, as we are focused on bringing a variety of individuals and organizations who have created programming that center solely on Black History Month for our museum community.

Our goal every calendar year is to bring bigger, better, and more impactful programming to our guests, and we hope February 2022 is no different. Join us this month and you’ll be immersed in programming that fosters conversations at home and in your communities, while also providing talking points for caregivers to teach children about diversity, history, and inclusion. Explore & More is a place that’s welcoming for everyone, and that starts with creating a space that is knowledgeable about everyone who makes up our community. We view that celebrations such as Black History Month help to accomplish these goals and we hope to see you and your families throughout the month of February.

Play to Learn Facilitator

My Name is Linsey Daniels and I am a new facilitator at Explore & More. All through grade school I’ve always had great relationships with my educators. They helped me keep my passion for learning new and exciting things. It wasn’t until I got the opportunity to become an assistant teacher that I realized how essential early education is. I learned new skills pertaining to early childhood education and how effective developmentally appropriate education is. I also got opportunities to make relationships with my colleagues, the families, and the children I taught. During that time I also became a nanny/babysitter for some of those families. I wanted to become a teacher because I wanted to be able to have a career I could be passionate about. I am excited that I got an opportunity through AmeriCorp to work at Explore & More. I like that the museum is centered around Western New York. All the exhibits are pieced together like a puzzle. I love working in an environment with young children playing and learning in ways that are very constructive for them. Americorp is about making a difference, and being located in the heart of the city working at Explore & More, is a really neat way to do that!

It’s time to explore from home with a fun sensory activity that will encourage the development of creative thinking, fine motor skills, early literacy, early math, and vocabulary skills through play. I love watching the snow fall outside my window in the month of February. It’s a great time to stay warm indoors and cuddle close to family. You can bring the snowflakes inside your home by using shaving cream and a flat surface depending on your preference. This activity is ideal for children ages 2 and up.

What you’ll need:
Shaving cream
Flat surface (countertop, a plate, the bathtub, it’s your choice!)
Spatula (optional)

What you’ll do:
Start with a small amount of shaving cream on your surface and let your child begin exploring! You can smash it, squish it, draw, and write with shaving cream. You can discuss the noise the can makes, and what the shaving cream smells, looks, and feels like. Your child can express their creativity while using their fine motor skills by drawing in the shaving cream. You can join in the fun by writing letters or numbers in the shaving cream and encouraging your child to participate. School-aged children who are practicing addition, subtraction, and spelling words can also learn and study through play!

Have fun and stay warm!
Ms. Jackie
Lead Play to Learn Facilitator

Did you know that Explore & More has a dedicated free event each month to serve children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorders along with family and friends?

On the second Friday of each month from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm, children can play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families have access to the museum space and play zones. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects, and gross motor activities. Explore & More also has quiet kits packed with hands-on calming manipulatives, as well as sensory-friendly spaces in the museum. Space is limited so reservations are essential. To register, email [email protected]. Know a family that would benefit from joining these events? Please share and spread the word with us!

Explore & More collaborates with Dr. Kathy R. Doody, Associate Chair of Graduate Programs, SUNY Buffalo and Jana Mertz, The Children’s Guild Foundation Autism Spectrum Disorder Center, Oishei Children’s Hospital to provide parent programming and networking opportunities through in-person events as well as virtual connections. Call for more information, 716-655-5131, extension 3.

Dear Friends,

How many things do you read in one day? It goes without saying that smartphones have given us access to a wealth of information at our fingertips. You have most likely read a news article on social media within the last day or so. But when did you last read a book… for fun?

We may hear children say that they dislike reading and yet adults say they can’t find the time or motivation to read. Since February is “I Love to Read” month, we think it’s important to understand why reading needs to be a bigger part of your day, no matter what your age.

As parents, it can be challenging to find the time to fit in household responsibilities along with things we would like to do with our children. However, taking at least a short time out of your day to read to your children should be a priority. Reading to your child at an early age sets them up for success.

There may be days where there is simply too much going on to make the time to read with your child. If this happens do not get discouraged. If you don’t think you’ll be able to keep a reading routine, consider getting your child to help. For example, share with your child that you have a goal of how many books you want to read together in one month. After setting the goal, mention to your child that if this goal is reached there will be a reward for both of you to do something fun together, such as visiting Explore & More! By mentioning this goal to your child, you will feel more accountable to develop the habit or complete the goal.

By getting your child more involved, it makes them look forward to reading and they may take initiative, as well. For example, instead of you initiating storytime, your child may remind you that it’s time to read. Perhaps the best time to plan to read with your child is before bed to give them time to calm down so they can fall asleep easier. It also makes it simpler to get them away from the screens before bed.

Ultimately, we know that children follow the example of those whom they are around most. Therefore, if you want your child to read, you must be a role model and take the time to do so yourself. Explore & More is a great place to play AND read! Our seven educational play zones offer hands-on exhibits that tell the unique story of Buffalo and what makes us proud to be from Western New York. Each of these areas provides a variety of theme-related books for our visitors to read and enjoy.

It starts with intention, adding a little focus (like, “I Love to Read” month) and ends with each of us seeking reading to connect with ourselves and those around us. What are some of your family’s favorite books to read together? Feel free to share your pictures of reading time at home and/or at the museum on our Facebook or Instagram page or send us a tweet.

Best regards,

Lisa Chrapowicz
Senior Manager of Community & Strategic Initiatives