Cindy Crushes Programming: Mistakes Happen, some observations about programming mistakes from the trenches, by Teen Librarian Cindy Shutts

I have written about mistakes before – but I have new ones to share. I am always learning how to be a better librarian, and that means taking the time to look at my mistakes. Mistakes happen, the important part is that we learn from them. What are the mistakes you have made? Share in the comments and we’ll all learn from each other.

Wrong Program Names/Titles

Sometimes I choose the wrong program title; It might be too vague or not have enough information. This weekend was one of those events. I have my Teen Paint and Sip: Famous Animals. I think the title confused everyone. I had them paint Moo Deng or Pesto the Penguin. I might change it to paint your favorite animal something where they would understand the program more. Picking the right program name is half the battle, really.

Confusing Program Blurbs

I write my blurbs six months in advance for my programs. A lot can change in six months. I have a game plan and sometimes there are reasons the game plan can change. For example, sometimes supplies become more costly. Or we picked the wrong glue. Being overly vague can make people not understand what the program is, but being too specific can work against you too. The craft of the blurb is essential to promoting a program but not writing yourself into too specific of a box.

Making Sure Your Crafts are Adaptable

I work with teens with various disabilities and crafting levels. I try to make my programs easy to adapt to a different skill level. While some teens can do really complicated crafts, not all can. You have to be able to adapt. The first time I did a paint and sip I did not include a stencil for them to trace. I thought the shapes were simple enough but they were not for everyone. I did run to print shapes out but I should have done that beforehand.  Not everyone can see an image and freehand it. Also have erasers for mistakes. The lesson: make sure you account for different abilities and comfort levels and that your crafts are adaptable.

If You Advertise It, You Must Have It (i.e., let’s talk about food)

You do not know if people are counting on this program to have food in their bellies. It is a hard time and you do not know if the kiddos need the food. I have forgotten I promised a snack. I remedied it so the kids have food but you want to make sure you follow through. If you say you are going to have food, you must have food. If you advertise it, it must be there. You want to be honest and trustworthy in your advertising.

As mentioned above, the important part about mistakes is that we can learn from them. As long as we are taking the time to learn and improving, mistakes are a natural part of life.

Filed under: Cindy Crushes Programming, Teen Program in a Box, Teen Programming, Teen Programming in a Box, Teen Programs in a Box