PBS character Alma visits Lexington library (2024)

The Lexington Public Library, in collaboration with Nebraska Public Media, hosted an engaging and educational PBS Kids Family Fun Night on Friday. The event featured workshops and activities designed to promote critical thinking and creativity among children, inspired by the PBS Kids show “Alma’s Way.”

“Alma’s Way” is an animated children’s television series that premiered in October 2021. The show was created by Sonia Manzano, known for her longtime role as Maria on “Sesame Street,” and it is produced by Fred Rogers Productions.

“Alma’s Way” follows the adventures of Alma Rivera, a confident and witty 6-year-old Puerto Rican girl living in the Bronx with her family.

The series focuses on Alma’s experiences and everyday challenges, allowing her to think through problems and come up with solutions. This thought process is a central theme of the show.

The primary message of “Alma’s Way” is to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills in young children. The show aims to promote cognitive and emotional development by modeling reflective thinking, celebrate cultural diversity and the importance of family and community, and empower children to voice their ideas and feelings and understand the value of their own and others’ perspectives.

Upon arrival at the Lexington Public Library, attendees were warmly greeted by Kim Rogers, senior communication specialist at Nebraska Public Media. Rogers provided an overview of the evening’s events, distributing free materials such as stickers and coloring sheets to children.

The event officially commenced with welcoming remarks delivered by Lexington Public Library staff members and by Jessica Mitchell-McCollough, director of education for Nebraska Public Media.

Addressing the crowd in both English and Spanish, Mitchell-McCollough expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the community members for their participation.

The event was recorded by a filming crew from Nebraska Public Media for later broadcast distribution on television and the internet. Community members were informed that their participation implied consent to be recorded, with the understanding that Nebraska Public Media would use their images responsibly and respectfully.

The filming crew of the event featured production graphic specialist Kayla Solorzano, videographer/editor Sam Brodersen and audio engineer Ryan Messman.

Following the opening remarks, families enjoyed a free dinner featuring hot dogs and chips. The casual meal provided an opportunity for socializing and set a relaxed atmosphere for the activities that followed.

A highlight of the evening was the arrival of “Alma” from “Alma’s Way.” Alma’s presence delighted the children, who eagerly lined up to take a picture with her

For privacy reasons, Mitchell-McCollough informed the Clipper-Herald that the true identity of “Alma” cannot be disclosed to the public. However, Mitchell-McCollough emphasized the significant effort and dedication “Alma” has invested in organizing events for Nebraska Public Media.

The event featured several workshops, each designed to stimulate critical thinking and creativity in different ways.

Amy Cassner, early childhood education specialist for Nebraska Public Media, led a session that involved constructing towers using various types of paper. The challenge required children to build the tallest possible structure without using tape, glue or any strong adhesive.

Cassner encouraged parents and guardians to engage their children in critical thinking by asking probing questions about the building process. This activity not only fostered creativity but also promoted problem-solving skills and teamwork.

In another session, Matt Heusman, K-12 education specialist for Nebraska Public Media, guided children in creating pop-up maps using geometric shapes. Heusman encouraged participants to depict familiar locations such as their home, the library and their favorite stores.

By thinking creatively about their surroundings, children can develop awareness and artistic skills. Conversation starters provided by Heusman facilitated meaningful dialogue between parents and their children.

Linda Mitchell, a volunteer for Nebraska Public Media, led a workshop focused on making musical instruments from everyday materials like tape, cups and straws. Children were challenged to create instruments that could produce three or more distinct sounds or notes.

This hands-on activity not only sparked creativity but also introduced basic principles of sound and music. Adults were encouraged to discuss with their children the different types of instruments they enjoy and explore various ways to produce sounds.

In addition to the structured workshops, children could engage in free-form artistic activities. They could draw and color in the library hallway or create sidewalk art with chalk outside, taking advantage of the 70-degree weather.

Photo sessions with “Alma” were offered near the front entrance of the Lexington Public Library.

The events of the PBS Kids Family Fun Night were bolstered by the support of other individuals from Nebraska Public Media such as Molly Delaney, chief strategy officer, and Melanie Eirich, executive producer.

As the event drew to a close, “Alma” waved goodbye to the Lexington community. Speaking on her behalf in both English and Spanish, Mitchell-McCollough thanked the crowd for attending the event.