Vancouver Issue 205

A Love of Literature

Christianne’s Lyceum of Literature and Art

Remember when lazy summer afternoons used to mean lounging poolside with your favourite novel? Now our focus has shifted into what our kids are reading (poolside or not). According to Dr. Christianne Hayward, it’s never too early to engender a love of books—through fine art.

Located in the heart of Kitsilano, Christianne’s Lyceum of Literature and Art is a mecca of community-minded creativity. Boasting the largest picture-book and youth-lit library in western Canada, the Lyceum is bursting with excited kids, committed volunteers, and free-flowing artistry. 

With a goal of contributing to the cultural fabric of Vancouver, Dr. Christianne has been providing programs of excellence for over 14 years. Beginning with Stories, Stretches and Squiggles for one to two year-olds, and Booklets (a book club for moms and preschoolers), the Lyceum offers an impressive array of classes for every age and stage, guaranteed to fire up your kids’ imagination and create impassioned readers. 

While there may still be some spots in summer courses, the Lyceum is now taking fall registrations. These popular classes are small, so don’t delay. 

In the meantime, want to bring the Lyceum home? Christianne suggested these two creative activities:

Story Boxes: Pick a favourite book and help your little readers make props that relate to the narrative. Drop them all into a decorated shoebox and use the props to practice ‘telling the story’.
 
Summer Dreams: Help your kids brainstorm what summer means to them. Paint the ‘dreams’ onto shrink-art plastic, pop them into the oven and voilà: ‘dreams’ to create a personalized charm bracelet.

So whether it’s yarn bombing or book launches, growing butterflies or toddler storytelling, the Lyceum is sure to help your kids catch a love of literature.

How to Find

Christianne’s Lyceum of Literature and Art
www.christiannehayward.com

Find More on Sharesavvy

Once Upon a Huckleberry Bush
Colourstrings Music & Movement

Tested by Oscar M. (4), Vancouver
Tagged under kids, activities, educational, art
First published 2010.07.22