Family events in Berks County, PA

Families with young children can enjoy a calm, sensory friendly visit to the library before regular hours. Step-By-Step special instructor Miss Liz and Children’s Librarian Miss Daniella, together with supportive library staff, will lead hands-on, sensory rich activities in a warm, welcoming space. Little ones can explore tactile play with soft plush friends and other interactive stations that encourage learning and growth. This program is free for families and especially suited to toddlers and preschoolers. For preparation ideas, parents can consult the Sensory Friendly Tips for Parents guide.

A cheerful toddler storytime at the library features reading, simple crafts, and dancing. This playful mix of stories, creativity, and movement is suited for little ones.

Children ages 3 and older can enjoy stories, songs, playful rhymes, and movement that nurture social, language, and early literacy skills. Each session wraps up with a themed craft that reinforces the stories while boosting fine motor skills. No registration is needed.

Tweens and teens ages 9 and up can take part in a TNT hangout focused on board games. Each session features a different activity and snacks, with possibilities that include games, crafts, cooking, book-related fun, and more. Registration is required for snacks, and please include any allergies when registering. To sign up, email youthlibrarian@westlawnlibrary.org. This program takes place on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.

Scouts can focus on the treetops in a hands-on birding program created for Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. The session begins with how to spot key field marks and understand basic bird behaviors, then continues with a short trail hike to look for fall migrants alongside resident birds. Participants practice quiet observation, safe movement on the trail, and techniques used by birders. Bring binoculars if possible, as Berks Nature will have a small number available to borrow. The curriculum supports badge skills in species identification, observation protocols, and using optics, including Paws on the Path and Finding Your Way for Cub Scouts, and Animal Observer and Trail Adventure for Girl Scouts. Recommended for children aged 6 and up, with younger children possibly needing parental assistance. End times are approximate. If the program is sold out, a waitlist option is available.

Meet local helpers, pick up practical safety tips, and get an up-close look at a real emergency vehicle at this library event. The program is open to all ages, and no registration is required.

Experience a no-cost community evening centered on trunk or treat and autumn fun. Children of every age are welcome. Drop by rain or shine, in costume or not, for games, food, candy, trunk or treat stations, door prize giveaways, and more. Many local businesses are teaming up to provide prizes and refreshments.

An evening market mingle at AVRCC in Carsonia Park brings together market vendors and community tables. Explore the offerings, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere in Reading. Information about participating vendors and community groups will be shared as updates become available.

At The Nature Place, Berks Nature’s homeschool program invites students to explore science through creative, hands-on learning. Guided by experienced environmental educators, participants will investigate the natural world through observation and inquiry. In this poetry-focused session, art and science come together as students head outdoors to study trees, noticing their shapes, textures, and seasonal changes. Those observations will inspire short nature poems, sketches, and leaf rubbings, with time for students to share what they create. The lesson draws from Project Learning Tree and nurtures creativity, awareness, and a calm appreciation for nature. Best for ages 6 to 13. If the class fills, a waitlist is available.

Teens can gather at the library for a casual book chat paired with pizza. Discuss a fun read, hang out with friends, and enjoy a couple of slices while you talk. Open to all teens. Advance registration is requested online or by calling or texting 717-933-4060. Bring your appetite.

Settle into a comfortable spot in the library and read alongside therapy dogs, or simply stop to give them some gentle pats. Choose a book, relax at your own pace, and enjoy time with these friendly furry companions. Open to all ages, and no registration is needed.