Community In Action
Discover Learning Through Play at the Little Discovery Center
At Parenting Matters, we believe that strong community partnerships help us better serve families and children in Manatee and Sarasota counties. This month, we’re excited to spotlight our friends at the Little Discovery Center, a unique part of the Manatee County Library System that goes beyond traditional library offerings.
In a recent conversation, Katie Becker, Executive Director of Parenting Matters, sat down with Rosemary Jarrett and Chris O’Hara from the Little Discovery Center to explore what makes this space so special. Unlike a typical library, the Little Discovery Center is designed for hands-on learning, featuring six themed stations filled with books, toys, and interactive activities that encourage early childhood and literacy development. From the ‘Animal World’ and ‘Transportation’ stations to ‘Magical and Mighty’ play areas, each space fosters curiosity and storytelling, key components of early literacy.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Little Discovery Center is its emphasis on parent-child interaction. As Chris O’Hara explains, children naturally develop narrative skills through play, and by engaging with their parents, they enhance their early literacy in a fun and meaningful way. Plus, families don’t just enjoy the space—they leave with books in hand to continue learning at home!
Looking ahead, the Little Discovery Center is gearing up for its Summer Learning Program, where children of all ages, even babies, can participate in reading activities and earn prizes. It’s an incredible way to keep young minds engaged throughout the summer months.
We are proud to collaborate with the Manatee County Library System to create enriching experiences for families in our community. If you’re a business or organization looking to make a lasting impact, we invite you to join us in supporting early learning initiatives. Together, we can build a stronger foundation for the next generation!