Break in December for the Holidays?

So, the ESLCC at MPOW was very slow in December. Particularly when we took a break from story time during the last two weeks, the parents stopped coming entirely. I think next year, we might take a break for the holidays. Otherwise, I think I should plan a large event like a party so that students stay engaged. What did you do for the holidays?

What about childcare?

Our ESLCC is limited to adults 18 years and older. Just like any other library program, this most definitely limits participation. In my experience, children, especially those that speak English fluently, are often a distraction for the rest of the attendees. Here are some tactics I've used....

• Consider offering your ESLCC during a story time so that children can wait for their parents outside of your meeting.
• You can have children wait in the same room but ask them to grab a book to read while they wait quietly; provide some educational games that may keep children occupied.
• Have children help you out as volunteers and help run games or other activities.
• If you have enough interest, consider starting a separate ESLCC for teens or for children.
  

Check out these ESLCC tips from other librarians.

Two great ESLCC resources from WebJunction...

• An excellent list of best practices for running ESL Conversation Clubs, from Jean Kaleda, (note: link is to a Word document) posted to WebJunction Illinois.
• A great webinar entitled Conversation Clubs/Talk Time - Beyond the ESL Class! (note: link is to a .wmv) by Jackie Alectoridis and Carolina Fernandez-McManus.