Farmingdale Youth Services Department

The Mathematical Sciences Research Institute and the Children's Book Council have announced the 2016 Mathical list. Mathical: Books for Kids from Tots to Teens recognizes outstanding math-related fiction and nonfiction for young readers and inspires children of all ages to cultivate a love of mathematics in the world around them. The selection panel featured mathematicians, teachers, librarians, early childhood experts, and others. Together they evaluated books of all kinds, from picture books and novels to narrative nonfiction, that foster an enjoyment of math — with an emphasis on literary quality; substantial and/or inspirational math content; and a clear, accurate, and inviting approach to mathematics. The Mathical list is divided into four school-grade categories. Below are the 2016 winners and honorees. Pre-K: 8: An Animal Alphabet , written and illustrated by Elisha Cooper Grades K-2: Max’s Math , by Kate Banks (author) and Boris Kulikov (illustrator) Grades

The annual AAA Traffic Safety & Poster Contest brings out creativity in young people, while teaching them about important traffic safety issues. Directions: Students should illustrate a designated safety theme demonstrating correct behavior, and create a catchy slogan while striving to design a visually memorable entry.  A local panel of experts will judge entries. Grades K-8 themes: Primary Grades K-2 Pedestrian and Child Passenger Safety (e.g., Play Away From Cars, Booster Seat Use, School Bus Safety) Elementary Grades 3-5 (e.g., Bike Safety, Walking to School, Be Aware of Traffic) Junior High  Grades 6-8 How to Be a Good Passenger (e.g., Buckle Up, Don't Distract the Driver) Submit your entries to: AAA Traffic Safety 1415 Kellum Place Garden City, NY 11530 Deadline is March 11, 2016 Good luck!! For more information visit AAA.com/Safety

John Newbery Medal for the most outstanding contribution to children’s literature: “Last Stop on Market Street ,” written by Matt de la Peña, is the 2016 Newbery Medal winner. Three Newbery Honor Books also were named:   “The War that Saved My Life ,” written by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley  “ Roller Girl,” written and illustrated by Victoria Jamieson Readers  “ Echo,” written by Pam Muñoz Ryan Randolph Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children: “Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear,” illustrated by Sophie Blackall, is the 2016 Caldecott Medal winner. Four Caldecott Honor Books also were named:  “ Trombone Shorty,” illustrated by Bryan Collier, written by Troy Andrews “ Waiting,” illustrated and written by Kevin Henkes  “ Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement ,” illustrated by Ekua Holmes, written by Carole Boston Weatherford  “ Last Stop on Market Street,” illustrated by Ch