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East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings – March

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Library is a hub of activity and resources for kids, teens, and adults alike. Find a full list of East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings and programs offered in March; there is always something new to discover and learn. From storytime and arts and crafts for young children to coding classes and book clubs for teens, to technology workshops and author talks for adults; the library provides a welcoming and engaging environment for all ages. In addition to these events, the library also offers an extensive collection of books, DVDs, and online resources, making it a valuable resource for the entire community.

East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings

Ready, Set, Read! Press Start Program

East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings

This program provides a new monthly booklet for 3 years, packed full of family fun! The tips and activities in these booklets are designed for use with things already found around the house without the need to buy anything. Each booklet includes Community Connections, an insert with a selected list of community events, and the EBRP Library Children’s Storytime schedule for you to post on your refrigerator.

Completing all 12 booklets each year earns your child a FREE book of their choice and an entry into the annual gift card drawing, courtesy of the Patrons of the Public Library.

Pick up your booklet in the children’s room at any of our 14 locations!

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Read Across America and celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday by joining in on these fun programs! *Indicates registration required. Call Library location directly.

• Wednesday, March 1 – Sunday, March 5, all day Jones Creek Regional Branch
Pick up a Dr. Seuss activity packet, ages 6-11

• Wednesday, March 1 at 10:30 a.m. – Zachary Branch
I Am the Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss Cat in the Hat craft, ages 2-5

• *Wednesday, March 1 at 4 p.m.
Pride-Chaneyville Branch
Imagine That! How Dr. Seuss Wrote The Cat in the
Hat by Judy Sierra ® “I Love to Read” necklace, ages 5-10

• Thursday, March 2, all day – Delmont Gardens Branch
Live readings of Dr. Seuss books Striped hat craft, ages 3-7

• *Thursday, March 2 at 4 p.m. – River Center Branch
Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss Oobleck craft, ages 6-11

• *Thursday, March 2 at 4:30 p.m. – Baker Branch
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss Fish bowl craft, ages 3-7

• *Thursday, March 2 at 4:30 p.m. – Fairwood Branch
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss Decorative fish bowl, ages 4-11

• *Thursday, March 2 at 5 p.m. – Greenwell Springs Road Regional Branch
Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Horton Kindness Bracelet, ages 5-11

Artsy Smartsy Saturday
Saturday, March 11 at 10 AM | Pride-Chaneyville Branch 

Kids ages 6-11 are invited to Artsy Smartsy Saturday at the Pride-Chaneyville Branch on Saturday, March 11 at 10 a.m.! We will read selected chapters from the book Green Gravy by Beverly Lewis and make a St. Patrick’s Day shamrock hanger using tempera paint markers and a craft tube stamp. Registration is required. To register, please call 658-1560.

Hands On Baby Time
Saturday, March 11 at 2:30 PM | Main Library at Goodwood

Join the Main Library at Goodwood on Saturday, March 11 at 2:30 p.m. as we read Hello, Farm! by Maddie Frost and learn about farm animals and the sounds they make. Then,  have some fun with some hands-on sensory items and baby-safe percussion instruments. This program is for babies, birth-12 months. Registration is required. To register, please call 231-3760. Sorry, no groups.

STEM Playtime
Wednesday, March 29 10:30 AM & 4 PM | Zachary Branch

The Zachary Branch will host STEM playtime on Wednesday, March 29 at two different times. Younger children are invited to join them at 10:30 a.m. to play with Mega Bloks and Bee-Bots. Older children can stop by after school at 4 p.m. to create with Snap Circuit kits.

One Book One Community
Sunday, March 19th, 4-6 PM | Main Library at Goodwood
East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings

East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s 17th annual One Book One Community initiative will highlight Chris Thomas King’s book, The Blues: The Authentic Narrative of My Music and Culture. as well as many other blues-inspired programs for all ages throughout the Library system. We will explore such topics as blues music; Baton Rouge and Louisiana’s music culture/history; songwriting and poetry; black history; and the lives of music legends.

To kick off six weeks of programs, book discussions, and other opportunities for community connection, EBRPL will have a FREE Kickoff Party at the Main Library at Goodwood on Sunday, March 19, 4-6 p.m.! Attendees will enjoy live music from The Michael Foster Project, a special appearance by author Chris Thomas King, delicious local food, crafts, games, and engagement with community organizations. It will be an outdoor celebration for all ages on the Plaza! In the case of inclement weather, it will be held inside the Library. For more information about One Book One Community, please visit ReadOneBook.org.

Sounds of Science Series – Family Event
Saturday, March 25 at 1 PM | Main Library at Goodwood

Join the East Baton Rouge Parish Library in collaboration with the LSU School of Music, the LSU Department of Astronomy and Physics, and the LSU Manship School of Mass Communication for the Sounds of Science series on Saturday, March 25 at the Main Library at Goodwood. Starting at 1 p.m., there will be activities for children and adults, including the LaSPACE/MARS Truck, Storytimes, and Interactive Music Making. At 7 p.m., a Sounds of Science panel discussion and musical performance will be held in the large meeting room. For more information, visit ebrpl.co/soundsofscience.

Write Time! with Boo Milton
March 7 & April 4th at 6 PM | River Center Branch

Join us on Tuesday, March 7 at 6 p.m. at the River Center Branch for Write Time!, a FREE poetry and general creative writing session for adults ages 18-33. Beginners and seasoned writers will enjoy creating poems and spoken word pieces while connecting with other creatives. This event is hosted by media personality Boo Milton with a live DJ and refreshments. And mark your calendar for next month’s Write Time! session on Tuesday, April 4 at 6 p.m.! Register for any or all of these monthly sessions at ebrpl.com/calendar or by emailing programs@ebrpl.com.

Saturday Science – Teens & Adults
Saturday, March 25 at 3 p.m | Main Library at Goodwood

Teens and adults are invited to the Main Library at Goodwood on Saturday, March 25 at 3 p.m. for Saturday Science, LSU’s free public talk series connecting the community to science and technology. This month, learn about the first exciting discoveries of the James Webb Space Telescope!

Children’s Books and Music Series featuring The Kids’ Orchestra
Saturday, March 11 at 11 AM | Main Library at Goodwood
Saturday, March 25 at 2 PM | Jones Creek Regional Branch

East Baton Rouge Parish Library Happenings

Collect new musical skills! Discover new library books! Experiment with new dance steps!
Kids’ Orchestra invites children, ages 5-11, to an experiential program that combines library books with music education. Each month, children will explore a theme as they learn about an instrument, sing a song, explore a dance, and play a game – all inspired by a book in the East Baton Rouge Parish Library collection.

In March, learn about Trombone Shorty, a musician who grew up in Louisiana, and the instrument he played (a trombone, of course!). Hear the trombone and find out how it works. Learn some “second line” dance moves. Play an instrument naming and imitation game. Sing “When the Saints go Marching in” as we celebrate Louisiana music and culture. There are two opportunities to attend this fun program! See dates and times below. All children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

  • Saturday, March 11 at 11 a.m. – Main Library at Goodwood To register, please call 231-3760.
  • Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m. – Jones Creek Regional Branch To register, please call 756-1160.

 

Practice ACT Test
Saturday, March 4 at Noon | Main Library at Goodwood
Saturday, March 11 at 9 a.m. | Bluebonnet Regional Branch

Teens, brush up on your ACT test taking skills! These practice tests are organized to run like the real ACT test to give teens experience in the type of questions to expect as well as the testing environment. Please bring sharpened number 2 pencils, a permitted calculator, and a snack for the break. Space is limited. Registration is required. See date, time, locations, and registration details below.

  • Saturday, March 4 at Noon – Main Library at Goodwood To register, call 231-3770.
  • Saturday, March 11 at 9 a.m. – Bluebonnet Regional Branch To register, call 763-2270.-more-

Baton Rouge Concert Band Spring Concert
Sunday, March 26 at 5 PM | Main Library at Goodwood

Grab your passport and join the Baton Rouge Concert Band on Sunday, March 26 at 5 p.m. at the Main Library at Goodwood for their spring concert, “A Musical Passport through Europe and the British Isles.” There will be marches, jigs, folk songs, and more. From Norway and Belgium through the Balkans and Germany into France and on to the British Isles, your feet will be tapping and your heart will be singing!

2nd Annual Edible Book Festival
Saturday, April 1 at 2 PM | Main Library at Goodwood

The Edible Book Festival is an international celebration of books, food, and bad puns, held on or around April Fools’ Day each year. Participants are invited to choose a book and create an edible representation of its title or a wordplay on its title. Join us as we gather at the Main Library at Goodwood on Saturday, April 1 at 2 p.m. to view the bookish fare concocted to amuse, amaze, or, yes, even disgust onlookers and fellow participants. Vote for your favorites in categories such as Best in Show, Wittiest Wordplay, Least Appetizing and more! Winners will be announced at 4 p.m. and prizes will be awarded! To submit an entry, just bring your punny, edible creation to the Library at 1 p.m. to be displayed! Here are a few of last year’s winners. Can you top them?

Virtual Author Talk Series

The Library continues its Author Talk Series with three new authors in March! Each live, virtual event features a different bestselling author, along with an interactive Q&A session where participants can ask questions directly to the author. See March selections and dates/times below. Visit libraryc.org/ebrpl to register for these virtual events, learn about other upcoming conversations with bestselling authors, and view previous author talk recordings. For more information about these and other virtual events, visit ebrpl.com/virtual.

Free Saturday Tutoring

The Baton Rouge Magnet High School Beta Club will offer FREE tutoring services each Saturday in March, 9:30-10:30 a.m., at the Main Library at Goodwood! Beta members will tutor elementary, middle, and high school students. See subjects offered below. Only 60 spots are available each Saturday. Registration is required. Register online at ebrpl.co/tutor or call 231-3770.

  • Elementary students: English, Math, Science, and Reading
  • Middle schoolers
    (6th grade – 8th grade): English, Math, and Science
  • High schoolers: English, Math (9th – Calculus), and Science
  • Upon advanced request, they will provide tutoring in French, Spanish, and Latin.

The Cookbook Club

Do you love to cook and try new recipes? Join us for a new club centered around cookbooks and cuisine! Adults are invited to the Bluebonnet Regional Branch at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8 for our first meeting. We will discuss the club’s cookbook of choice and what recipes we will try and share with the group.

Spanish Reading Club

Do you speak or read Spanish? Perhaps you’re looking for a fun way to speak Spanish with others? If you also love reading and discussing books with others, then we have just the group for you! Join us for a new club centered around reading books in Spanish! Adults can come to the Bluebonnet Regional Branch at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15 for an organizational meeting where you can meet other Spanish speakers and decide on future books to discuss.

St. Patrick’s Day Tote Bags

20-Somethings are invited to learn how to use the Cricut and Heat Press equipment in the River Center Branch makerspace! Join us on Tuesday, March 14 at 3:30 p.m. to make your own St Patrick’s Day leprechaun tote bags! Registration is required. To register, visit ebrpl.com/calendar or call 389-4960.

March 2023 Library Event Calendars

 

Press Start! Ready, Set, Read! Program! – EBRPL

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If you are or a parent or caregiver of a toddlers ages 2-4, you won’t want to miss out on East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s Press Start! Ready, Set, Read! Program! The program  seeks to equip children with early literacy skills that will enable them to enter school with confidence.

East Baton Rouge Parish Library’s Press Start! Ready, Set, Read! Program

Press Start! Ready, Set, Read! Program!

Parents and caregivers may stop by the children’s room of any Library location to pick up a booklet that focuses on beginning literacy concepts that can be incorporated into their daily routines.

The booklets are full of fun activities that the children will enjoy while learning basic concepts that build a firm foundation for math and reading. Each monthly booklet will feature a new letter, number, color or concept, while also building on the previous month’s concepts. Children begin with booklet one, work their way through the program at their own pace, and earn rewards along the way.

Studies show that early literacy development strongly correlates to later school achievement. For this reason, EBRPL Children’s Services has developed the Press Start! program to ensure its youngest patrons get off to a good start and continue to reap the benefits once they reach school-age and beyond.

EBRPL’s Children’s Services Coordinator, Tara Dearing, commented, “Our Children’s departments at each library branch will also highlight these concepts through decorative displays, book displays, and programs each month. In fact, each month will be ‘brought to you’ by a new letter, color, or concept.”

When young patrons visit the Main Library at Goodwood, they may be excited to see a stuffed Mike the Tiger wearing a circular medallion with a number upon it and a rabbit proudly arrayed with the letter of the month.

Along with the easy activities you can do at home with your little one, reading aloud in itself has great benefits – be sure to pick up some books!

Benefits of using read-aloud:

One of the most important things adults can do in preparing children for success in reading is to read aloud with them.

  • Listeners build listening and comprehension skills through discussion during and after reading.
  • Listeners increase their vocabulary foundation by hearing words in context.
  • Listeners improve their memory and language skills as they hear a variety of writing styles and paraphrase their understanding.
  • Listeners develop individual interests in a broad variety of subjects and they develop imagination and creativity: what better way to build skills which foster inquiry?

Read to your child

Reading aloud to your children will not only give them a solid reading foundation, but it will also help them discover the joy of reading.

It’s never too early (or too late) to start reading aloud to your child. One thing we can do to kick-start the road to reading is simply to read to our children and read to them often. Discuss what you have read with your child and ask questions before, during and after your reading sessions. Create a reading nook in your home and commit to reading aloud at least once daily. Keep books readily available and take them with you when you go. Reading aloud can take place anytime, anywhere.

Make reading fun

There are many different activities that will help a child build a strong reading foundation. Mastering letters and matching lowercase letters with their sound is very helpful when a child is learning to read phonetically. Let your reader make letters out of Play-Doh, whipped topping, shaving cream, sprinkles or sand. If they are learning sight words, they can create beginning sight words with noodles or pipe cleaners.

Be the example

Monkey see, monkey do. The best example we can give to our child is to show them our love of reading. It’s one thing for us to tell a child they must read each day, it’s another for them to see us reading each day.

Enjoy the journey

There might be days when you feel as though your child will never learn to read — it can be a daunting task at times. Remind yourself that you are giving your child a gift that will truly last them a lifetime. Embrace the struggles with the lightbulb moments and enjoy making sweet memories along the way.

Press Start!

Stop by the Children’s Room of any library location to pick up your Press Start! booklet! The month of February is brought to you by the letters H, I, J & K; the numbers 7, 8, 9 & 10; and the weather concept, “rainy/wet.” Each month’s booklet introduces basic concepts with fun activities for ages 2-4 that you can fit into your daily routine and that help prepare your child for kindergarten.

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours – Baton Rouge & Beyond

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Kids of all ages can’t wait to go trick-or-treating on Halloween, dates are finally coming in… slowly! We will be updating the 2022 TRICK-OR-TREAT Times in Baton Rouge and beyond as they are announced.

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours

While every effort has been made to ensure this information is accurate, we encourage you to verify that all details are correct and have not changed. If you have information that we have missed, please let us know!

Baton Rouge Trick or Treat Hours – And beyond!

Trick-or-treat hours in the city limits of Baton Rouge and unincorporated areas of East Baton Rouge are set for 6 – 8 p.m. on Monday, October 31.

{2022 Trick-or-Treat hours subject to change}

East Baton Rouge Parish  — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  – Oct. 31
West Baton Rouge Parish — 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  – Oct. 31
Ascension Parish (Prairieville, Gonzales, Sorrento)  — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31
Assumption Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31
Livingston Parish — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  – Oct. 31st
This includes French Settlement and areas outside of municipal limits within Livingston Parish.
(Town of Livingston will Trick or Treat on the 29th)
Denham Springs and the City of Walker — 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Oct. 31
Zachary  — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Oct. 31.

Halloween Safety Tips from Baton Rouge Police Department:

  • Never allow children to trick-or-treat without adult supervision.
  • Always stay in groups.
  • Use sidewalks and stay out of the street whenever possible.
  • Wear reflective clothing or bright costumes.
  • Trick-or-treat only in familiar neighborhoods.
  • Do not allow children to eat any candy or treats until thoroughly checked by an adult.
  • Drivers are asked to slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods.
  • Call the police if any suspicious activity occurs, or if candy is suspected to be tainted.
  • Residents are urged to hand out only manufactured, sealed candy.

Find more safety tips here: batonrougefamilyfun.com/safe-trick-or-treating

Here are a few more posts you might find helpful:

Halloween in Baton Rouge – Things to Do
Baton Rouge Family Fun Fall Events Guide

National Hunting and Fishing Day

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National Hunting and Fishing Day is back!

 

Join the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries for a FREE event that will include fun and informative exhibits on LDWF’s research and conservation efforts, as well as shooting and fishing demonstrations, and many other exhibits related to outdoor adventures!

 

This event is held nationwide on the fourth Saturday of every September to recognize generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to conservation. LDWF is hosting four events in Louisiana on Sept. 24, 2022.
This FREE event will feature:
🎣Youth fishing tournament
🦆Live animals
🛶Canoeing
🎯Air-rifles
🎯Skeet shooting
🏹Archery
🍕Free food and drinks
🎁Door prizes
🤡Face painting and more!



WHERE:
Waddill Wildlife Refuge
4142 N Flannery Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70814

WHEN:
Saturday, September 24th 8 AM – 1 PM

Visit the official event page for more info: https://fb.me/e/1SrezXdhT
More Louisiana Fishing Fun:

Back to School: Ensuring an A+ start to the school year

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Back to school…three words that represent great joy to parents who are ready to get back to routine and bring great anguish and “pain” to kids who aren’t quite ready to give up their summer freedom. In order to ensure a smooth transition from the fun and less structured summer into a new school year, I think it is important as parents to take the time to talk to our children about their worries and concerns going into the fall semester.

Back to School

Back to School: Ensuring an A+ start to the school year

Back to School – Ask Questions

The question could be as simple as, “Is there anything you are worried about for this school year?” I know in my office when I ask this question, I have had many a parent be surprised by the answer their child might give. When we know what our children are worried or afraid of, it makes us, as parents, better equipped to give them the guidance they need to maneuver through the unchartered waters of a new school experience happily and successfully.

Back to School – Set Expectations

I encourage parents to teach children to view school as their job—what better time to start teaching children about work ethic than from the very beginning of school. As parents, we should set expectations for our children in regards to their “job” performance, and if these expectations are not met, then they should be held accountable.

Now, the expectations, as well as the consequences, will, of course, vary by age, but even the youngest child should understand that they should strive to be the best they can be at their job. Even my son, who is starting Pre-K 3, knows that mommy and daddy expect him to listen to his teacher, follow directions, and be a good friend to his classmates. If he doesn’t achieve these things, he doesn’t get to read books at night (his favorite pre-bedtime activity).

These expectations are established from the get-go so that there is no confusion about the “job description.”

Back to School – Establish a good rapport with your child’s teacher

I also encourage all parents, but especially the parents of elementary-aged children, to establish a good rapport with their child’s teacher. After all, the reality is that in many cases, their teacher will spend more time with them during the weekday than we will.

It is crucial to make sure there are channels of communication that exist between parents and teachers, and these should not be one-way avenues. Parents should feel comfortable bringing up concerns to teachers, just as teachers should be respected when they bring concerns back to parents.

A partnership between teacher and parent is vital to helping children achieve success in the classroom which often translates to increased self-confidence in kids.

Stay positive

So as everyone heads back to school, establish those expectations, let them know their “job description,” and then make sure your voice as a parent is a positive one with excitement, support, and encouragement for the upcoming school year.

As kids make the trek up the ladder to reach those expectations you have set, make sure they know you are their biggest cheerleader and will always be behind them to catch them when they stumble, to give extra little pushes along the way, and to celebrate all of their achievements all from a place of unconditional love.

“Ask the Experts” is a series on Baton Rouge Family Fun where local experts share their thoughts, opinions and answer questions relating to health, wellness, parenting, and living in Baton Rouge.Ask the experts Baton Rouge Moms

Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to share family resources and Baton Rouge Family Fun’s experiences with food, fitness, and health as well as opinions from some of our local experts. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.  When it comes to your health or the health of your child, please be sure to contact your physician.

A well-planned morning routine – Baton Rouge Family Fun

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A smooth-sailing morning and you’re all ready to tackle whatever the day brings. A mad rush out the door clutching a breakfast bar, papers flying and shoes untied, and you’ll all need a nap by noon. A well-planned morning routine helps children handle problems, perform in school, and get along with others far better than if they start the day rushed and unorganized.

Parents can plan out a morning routine, writing down a detailed schedule of what needs to be done in the morning and how it can be done with a minimum of stress.

Morning Routine

A well-planned morning routine…

If your family’s morning routine is rushed, chaotic, and full of frustration, you should first be evaluating exactly what is happening in the mornings. What are the key things that get your attention and get you angry? A child who won’t get out of bed until the third call? A child who takes 10 minutes to put on his socks? Identify these situations and start responding to them in ways that will get your children to change their behaviors.

Here are some tips for streamlining your morning routine into a smooth ride for the entire family.

Get enough sleep.

No matter how well organized your morning routine is, you need to be well-rested to handle it. The first key to a great morning is to have had enough sleep. If you don’t already have a good bedtime routine for your kids, get one. Get up before your children. In order to lead the children in an efficient morning, parents need to be awake and ready to start the day ahead of time.

Set things out the night before.

Have your kids pick out what they’re going to wear and set out their clothes. Get completed homework back in the backpacks before they go to bed. Set out gym backs, forms, musical instruments, and anything they need to take to school.

Do as much as you can the night before.

Encourage your kids to shower the night before instead of in the morning, especially the slow-pokes. Pack lunches the night before and keep them in the frig, ready to grab and go.
Schedule an extra 10 minutes of wake-up time. If you’ve scheduled your kids’ morning down to the minute, build in at least a few extra minutes of cushion time, for them to get out of bed and get moving.

Give them a reward for “smooth mornings.”

Tell your kids if they can get through a morning without yelling, threats, and excessive rushing, they’ll get a sticker on a chart, a candy in their lunch, or another reward.

Don’t lump your kids together.

Kids are different and need different types of encouragement in the mornings to get things done. Let each of your children have input on their own personal morning routine. If one child needs more time, get him up earlier. If another child needs more time to eat breakfast, allow that for him. Allow each of your children to have a schedule that works for him, instead of running a boot camp group operation.

Keep things close to the door.

Organize your mudroom or entryway so that coats, hats, gloves, shoes, and anything else your child needs for the day are all near the doorway. Invest in a closet organizer that you can label with days of the week and hang in a closet near the door. Use it to stash signed permission slips, money the kids may need, sneakers on gym day, an instrument on music day, and whatever else your kids need.

Use written reminders.

Keep a whiteboard or a chalkboard near the back door and have your children write down reminders to themselves. Put it in a spot where it can be seen as you’re leaving the house.

Be flexible.

While there’s no arguing the significance of a healthy breakfast, sometimes your child just won’t be in the mood. Don’t fight it. While routines are important, when things come up, or the routine is not working, be flexible! There will be times when the routine can cause more stress and anxiety.

A well-planned morning routine need not be elaborate, just functional!

You may also like: Back to School: Ensuring an A+ start to the school year

Back to School Supply Drives, Events, & Programs

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The first day of school is quickly approaching families in the Baton Rouge area. The start of the school year can be a stressful time for families. For one in five children living in poverty, parents often have to choose between buying school supplies or putting food on the table. Yet, whether they’re attending class online or in the classroom, school supplies remain critical to helping students feel prepared to succeed. Here’s a running list of back-to-school events to help parents prepare their children for the upcoming school year.

Back to School Baton Rouge Supply Drives, Events, & Programs

Back to School Bash and School Supply Giveaway

EBR Schools is hosting their annual city-wide Back to School Bash and School Supply Giveaway! Join EBR Schools at the Raising Cane’s River Center Saturday, August 6th, from 11 am – 2 pm for a fun-filled day. Get ready for school all in one place! Get information about all of the wonderful opportunities available for students and families in East Baton Rouge Parish, along with enjoying free fitness sessions, health screenings, haircuts, entertainment, and more!

WBRZ Stuff the Bus

WBRZ’s Stuff the Bus Campaign is a school supply drive that assists parents and teachers in East Baton Rouge Parish and West Baton Rouge Parish to receive the school supplies their children need in order to succeed.

Help them fill up East Baton Rouge Parish school buses and West Baton Rouge Parish school buses with school supplies for the children of our community! Drop off supplies on Wednesday, July 28th, at the Walmart on College Drive in East Baton Rouge and the Walmart in Port Allen in West Baton Rouge.

Annual Backpack Give-Away Back to School Community Fair

The Salvation Army is hosting its Annual Backpack Give-Away Back to School Community Fair on Saturday, 6th.

-Event is from 9 am to 12 pm.
-Child needs to be present in order to receive a backpack
-The adult accompanying the child must have a V A L I D I.D.
-School supplies and backpacks will only be handed out to children ages 5 yrs. – 12 yrs.

Baker Schools Back to School Giveaway

 

Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS)

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There’s a new school in town – Capital Renaissance International School! You may remember that the Baton Rouge International School (BRIS) recently announced that it would permanently close at the end of this school year after operating as a private International Baccalaureate (IB) World School in Baton Rouge for more than 20 years.

Baton Rouge Parents to the rescue!

However, Baton Rouge parents have joined forces with a plan to continue the International School legacy, the only multi-lingual school in the region. The school will be relocating with a new name and new administration. The new Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) located at 10420 Baringer Foreman Road in Baton Rouge is currently enrolling students (6 weeks – 5th grade) for the 2022-2023 school year.

Capital Renaissance International School

The inaugural Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) Renaissance Family Night benefits the NEW language immersion education program in Baton Rouge.  This exciting event features live entertainment by living legend blues artist Kenny Neal and a variety of fun activities for the kids including miniature pony rides, face painting, and balloon art.

Capital Renaissance International School

CRIS Renaissance Family Night is part of an inspirational effort led by a group of passionate parents determined to preserve and continue Baton Rouge’s only multilingual immersion education program following the sudden and unexpected closure of Baton Rouge International School (BRIS) in May 2022. This group has dedicated the last few weeks to school relocation and renovation, recruitment of educators and administrators, student enrollment, and has spent many nights and weekends preparing classrooms and for the start of the 2022-2023 school year beginning this August. School administrators and educators will be on hand at the June 25th event to provide more information about enrollment and our unique curriculum.

What: Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) Renaissance Family Night Fundraiser
When: Saturday, June 25th | 4-8pm
Where: Red Stick Social – 1503 Government Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802
Cost: Admission $10/Adults $5 kids (10 & under FREE)
Entertainment: Live music ft. legendary Louisiana blues artist KENNY NEAL, miniature pony rides, face painting, balloon art, jump house, food & drink, and MORE! 

CRIS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 88-2401255).  All proceeds from CRIS Renaissance Family Night will go towards school reopening efforts:

• Completing Purchase of School Property
• Paying for Operational Costs and Teacher Salaries
• Renovating Classrooms
• Purchasing School Supplies, Educational Materials, and Infant Cribs for Early Learning Program
• Jumpstarting CRIS Student Scholarship Fund

Follow Capital Renaissance International School (CRIS) online and learn more! 

Things to do in Baton Rouge

30 Things To Do with Kids in Baton Rouge & Beyond

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Summer fun is in full swing, time to relax and enjoy the lazy days of summer…  but tell that to kids who are bouncing off the walls or singing the boredom blues.

As parents, we want each summer to be more memorable than the last, and with that comes the need for a few new ideas, especially if your child is too young to go to a summer camp.

Here are 30 Things To Do with kids in Baton Rouge and beyond that are sure to keep you busy all summer long!

Good to Know Before You Go: Please be sure to call before heading out; times change, parks close, so many variables can affect your outing.

Things To Do in Baton Rouge

30 Things To Do with Kids in Baton Rouge

  1. LSU Lakes – Bike, Picnic, Splash Pad – Between feeding the ducks, the great little bike path, the kids’ playground, and a little splash pad behind the art gallery, this is such a fun little day to have with the kiddos.
  2. Baton Rouge Splash Pad Parks & Pools Guide – Visit our Baton Rouge Water Fun Guide to find one of many Baton Rouge Splash Pads, water parks, and or pools!
  3. Blueberry Picking – There is an abundance of places to do this around the area. The Sooner, the better before they are all picked over. We love to make Blueberry Scones with a Lemon Glaze.
  4. Pottery Painting – Brushfire Studios – This is a quaint little studio in downtown Denham Springs.
  5. Water Balloon Fight – This is a summer classic. Want to make it more fun? Add a little food coloring to the balloons and put the kids in white shirts. Just get ready to hose them down.
  6. Young Chefs Academy – This is one of my oldest’s favorite places. They have summer programs and fun little classes.
  7. Go Bowling – Kids Bowl FREE this summer – learn more! 
  8. Blackwater Conservation
  9. Tunica Hills and Tunica Falls/Clark Creek – Outdoor Adventures
  10. $1.50 Family Friendly Movies at Perkins Rowe  -Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is back with 8 weeks of kid-approved movies! Enjoy safe and exciting big-screen entertainment for just $1.50 per ticket for each movie.
  11. Louisiana Peach Festival – Okay, so maybe this isn’t a day trip, but it’s totally worth the drive. Happening on June 5th in Ruston, Louisiana. Peach ice cream and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.
  12. Delcambre Shrimp Festival – While we are on the festival beat, this is totally a day trip. You haven’t gone Cajun till you go Acadiana. A bit later in the summer, this happens in August each year. Bring your dancing shoes.
  13. Old State Capitol – While you’re downtown, hit up the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
  14. Global Wildlife – This is one of the most underrated experiences of my childhood. Letting a giraffe eat out of your hand might be the highlight of your kid’s summer, and who am I kidding, your’s as well.
  15. Myrtles Plantation Tour – My oldest is very into mystery and more. On your way home, do yourself a favor and stop at Chloe’s in Zachary for a snowball.
  16. WWII Museum – I don’t really know that this needs much introduction; it’s a must-do with the older kiddos!
  17. Louisiana Children’s Museum – This is one of my fondest childhood memories.
  18. Audubon Zoo / Cool Zoo – I will spare you the song, but they do all “ax for you.” So don’t let those animals down. When you’re there, it’s totally worth the “pop” bracelet that gets you admission into the Cool Zoo and unlimited rides on the train and carousel.
  19. Audubon Aquarium of America’s & Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium – What kid doesn’t want to touch an urchin and eat crickets.
  20. Write and Illustrate a Children’s Book – Because, after all these big adventures, you will need some time at home.
  21. EBR Library – The East Baton Rouge Parish Library has many little classes and fun projects for all ages. Check out their event calendar and enjoy!
  22. Dinosaur Park Henderson – I have heard amazing things, and this summer, we intend to find out for ourselves.
  23. Livingston Parish Library – Just a little hop next door, and there are so many fun programs for littles to enjoy.
  24. Dig a Garden – There is no greater joy than watching my kiddos play in the dirt. If you need some help, Glad Gardens can build one for you!
  25. Make a Nana recipe from scratch – No box mixes here, just some love, wooden spoons, and old family recipes.
  26. Lemonade Stand – The earliest form of entrepreneurship at its south Louisiana finest.
  27. Barnhill Preserve in Ethel – (sloths…Nuff said) hands-on animal encounters and programs!
  28. Baton Rouge Zoo – One of our favorites to spend a day with the animals and play in the park – you can even feed the pelicans now too!
  29. Cajun Pride Swamp Tour – take a unique and educational journey back to the early days of Louisiana bayou and swamp explorations on this authentic Louisiana swamp eco-tour.
  30. Knock Knock Children’s Museum – this is a full day of fun and good eats at Acorn Cafe!

Be sure to check out our Summer Fun in Baton Rouge Guide for more!

Summer Fun in Baton Rouge

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Important Women In Louisiana History – Women’s History Month

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In a state with the tallest state capitol building in the U.S., the world’s largest steel-constructed room unobstructed by posts (The Superdome), and the longest bridge over water in the world (Lake Pontchartrain causeway), you can only expect big things from the women who call Louisiana home.

Important Women In Louisiana History

Margaret Haughery (1813-1882)

Today, statues can be found in most large cities to celebrate the lives of residents who have made the city proud. Haughery was the first woman to be commemorated with a statue for her tireless social reform efforts.

Haughery lost her husband and only child to a yellow fever epidemic soon after arriving in New Orleans in 1835. What might have been disabling for many women of her day, Haughery went on to become founder of four orphanages and several homes for the elderly. She purchased cows to provide milk for the children and ended up selling milk from a cart throughout the city. In fact, LSU Libraries notes one of the orphanages was paid for, largely, through Haughery’s milk cart sales.

Kate Gordon (1861-1932)

Jean Gordon (1865-1932)

These sisters were two of the few suffragists in the South. In addition, they worked hard for social and political reform including, poor sewage and drainage, Child Labor Act of 1906, The Milne Home which was the first institution for mentally challenged children, day care, and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Lillian Hellman (1905-1984)

As with most fields, theater was still male-dominated in the mid 1900s, but she is known as one of the greatest playwrights of her time. Eventually, she was blacklisted in Hollywood for her political views, but went on to New York where she continued to write and teach.

Sr. Henriette Delille (1813 – 1862)

Born in 1862, Sister Henriette was a Louisiana Creole of Color and Catholic nun from New Orleans. She founded the Sisters of the Holy Family in 1836 and served as their first Mother Superior. The order is the second-oldest surviving congregation of African-American nuns in the United States.

Mahalia Jackson 1912 – 1972

Born in New Orleans, Jackson was a gospel singer and widely considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. During a time when racial segregation was the norm in American society, she had considerable success selling close to 22 million records and performing in front of integrated crowds not only in the US, but around the world.

Ruby Bridges Hall (b. 1954)

In 1960, Hall was the first African American child to attend William Frantz Public School in New Orleans. Hall explains on the Ruby Bridges Foundation website, she and other African American kindergarteners in New Orleans were given a test to see who would be going to one of the new integrated schools. Hall passed, along with five other children. She was the only one to attend William Frantz.

Changing the world as a 6-year-old is a daunting task. Hall was delivered to and picked up from school by federal marshals every day of first grade. Escorted to and from the building to the jeers and nasty comments by protestors, Hall prayed to God each day to help her ignore the crowds. Many parents pulled their kids out of William Frantz that year.

Once inside the school, Hall was greeted by her teacher, Barbara Henry. Hall was her only student that semester and the two formed a close bond. With the support of Henry and her family, Hall successfully made it through that first stressful year. When she went back to William Frantz the next fall for second grade, the protesting had largely subsided and there were a couple more African American children in attendance.

Hall speaks about racism and education around the country.

 

Read More: Who are the 10 Most Famous Women in Louisiana History?