A day just for the kids

Evangeline Skonning of Warrenville got decked out in Dora the Explorer gear Sunday.

She donned her Dora watch, bracelet and doll --and couldn't wait to meet the famous children's cartoon character.

"So far she seems to be really enjoying (the event)," said Melinda Skonning of her 4-year-old daughter as she created a blossoming flower.

Hundreds of children like Evangeline and their parents headed to the Warrenville Public Library Sunday for music from classical Spanish guitarist Dave Byron, chalk art, games and a special appearance by a life-sized Dora the Explorer during the second annual Children's Day, or El Dia De Los Ninos.

Diana Abraham, organizer of the event and youth services assistant, said the event's goal was to simply bring people into the library.

"There's an up-and-coming Spanish speaking population, and that was one of the reasons we wanted to do this," she said. "It's pretty much centered around children and literature, and just trying to enhance that."

Her favorite part is how involved the parents and children get while working on different craft projects.

"It's just so endearing to see the parents help the little kids," Abraham said. "I just love that."

Mike Fuller of Warrenville brought his 7-year-old son, Nathan, to the event again this year.

Nathan had temporary Dora and bird tattoos, he ate some cookies and made a maraca by filling two plates with beans and stapling them together.

"I think it's important to learn different aspects of other people's cultures," Mike Fuller said. "I think it's wonderful the library is doing this."

Volunteer Monica Medina of Chicago said the event was a great way to bring the community together.

"Every station has it's own pluses here," she said. "Kids take ownership of what they're doing, and it'll hopefully help them remember the special days."