Tradition dates back 18 years
CARIBOU, Maine — Childrens’ tea parties have been a tradition at the Caribou Public Library for nearly 18 years, and each year presents a new opportunity to unveil a unique theme. This year, the theme will be butterflies and the party will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 16 in the library’s Caribou room.
Youth Services Director Katie Wilcox-Bosse is planning this year’s tea party, and emphasizes that while it is a fun event where kids can meet new people, there is an educational component as well.
“We have to get tea cups, food, and decorations in preparation for the tea party, which is usually about an hour-long program,” said Wilcox-Bosse. “We try to make it educational so they’re not just coming for tea. Along with getting supplies, I also create lesson plans and help send out invitations to nearby schools.”
The tea party is a big event for the Caribou library, and children from a number of schools in the area usually attend in full tea party attire, much like one would for an old-fashioned tea party.
“Not all children have had the experience of drinking tea or being able to meet new friends,” said Wilcox-Bosse, “and this event gives them a chance to meet new people since it’s open to other towns.”
The Caribou room will be decorated with butterflies on the tables and walls for this year’s tea party, and also offer cookies and cupcakes to accompany the beverage. In addition, the Youth Services Director is preparing a hands-on craft event for all children who attend.
Running for nearly two decades, the tea party has gone through a number of changes. Since Wilcox-Bosse took over the event, it has been open to both boys and girls of all ages in an effort to not exclude anyone with different abilities or special needs.
Last year, the library celebrated Chinese New Year during their tea party and children had fortune cookies and learned to use chopsticks.
“It’s more than just a tea party,” said Wilcox-Bosse. “It’s an education-based experience where literacy is encouraged. We are going to be talking about butterflies and learning about that insect. It’s going to be a good chance for kids to socialize and meet new people, especially for kids who are visiting the library for the first time.”
