Kid’s Events for International Mother Language Day

 

A corner of Florence’s Children’s Lending Library, which features books in English

To celebrate International Mother Language Day, the Children’s Lending Library, together with  Bee – Bilingual, is hosting a free event at the Giardino dell’Orticoltura (located on Via Vittorio Emanuele II n.4), on Sunday, February 20, starting at 10:30 am until 12:30 pm. In case of rain, the event will be postponed.

The event is set up to promote linguistic/cultural diversity and multilingualism around the world. Mothers, who come from different countries and cultures, will share stories with kids about traditions, food and games from their native countries. The moms present will also try to teach the children a few words in their language.

Florence is home to many couples composed of an Italian and non-Italian partner. It has become increasingly popular for foreign couples to move to Italy and contribute to the multi-cultural diversity of the country.

The Giardino dell’Orticoltura is a large garden park located just outside of the old city center of Florence. The greenhouse, located mid-north of the park, is considered one of the most beautiful Victorian-era greenhouses in Italy and is used for celebrating and hosting events, parties, food and other cultural activities.

One of the organizers is the Children’s Lending Library. Hosted on the premises of St. James Church, the reading room contains books in English for kids of all ages who are part of the Florence community. The non-profit organization is set up in the 1970s, as a way to connect English speakers in Florence. Nowadays, the library is utilized by the whole Florence community.

The other organizer is Bee – Bilingual. The organization provides engaging, affordable online language instruction to ensure that all kids get the opportunity to learn a new language.

For more information about the Children’s Lending Library go to: https://childrenslendinglibrary.wordpress.com/

Opening hours of the Children’s Lending Library:

Wednesday:     10 am – 12 noon

Thursday:         4 pm – 6 pm

Sunday:             12 noon – 1 pm

Closed: Monday, Tuesday, Friday & Saturday

Open to the public from mid-September to June

The website of Giardino dell’Orticoltura offers more information on their events and activities: http://www.giardinoartecultura.it/

https://www.bee-bilingual.com/ offers more information on the program they offer and what they do as a company