The following article was written by MPL Youth Services Associate, Kirsten Smith.
Get ready to soar through the cosmos at Manitowoc Public Library from Monday, April 21, to Sunday, April 27 with Cosmic Cadets and Cosmic Clue Chase, two stellar scavenger hunts for junior explorers that will be available at Mission Control—or the Youth Services Department as it is more commonly known!
While Cosmic Cadets provides an entry point for younger adventurers ages 4 and up, Cosmic Clue Chase takes center stage as the ultimate cosmic challenge designed for kids in 3rd grade and up. This main event invites participants to dive into riddles and secret words, making it the perfect adventure for curious minds and aspiring space sleuths. Both scavenger hunts are drop-in activities for children and will be available for the duration of the week.
For the littlest explorers, Cosmic Cadets offers an exciting, simplified version of the scavenger hunt. Designed specifically for kids ages 4 and up, this activity lets young adventurers search for hidden clues and decode their own secret word. With support from grown-ups when needed, this version is tailored to spark curiosity and ensure that all participants can experience the joy of discovery. Both hunts allow children to journey through the mysteries of space at their own level, making the program fun and accessible for all.
The Cosmic Clue Chase isn’t just about fun—it’s also a great way to strengthen literacy skills! Participants will read riddles, interpret written clues, and write down answers as they gather hints to uncover a secret word. These activities develop reading comprehension, logical thinking, and creativity, showing how the power of words can unlock new worlds—both in their imaginations and throughout the scavenger hunt.
This drop-in event celebrates the awe-inspiring Lyrids meteor shower, one of the oldest recorded meteor showers with sightings dating back over 2,700 years. Every April, the Lyrids dazzle the night sky with bright streaks of light, caused by meteors burning up in Earth’s atmosphere as Earth passes through the trail of the comet Thatcher. This breathtaking celestial display has amazed stargazers for millennia, and the Lyrids’ peak night on April 21 provides the perfect inspiration for this cosmic celebration.
Whether your child is decoding riddles in Cosmic Clue Chase or uncovering clues as part of Cosmic Cadets, this adventure is sure to inspire curiosity, creativity, and teamwork. Perfect for budding astronomers, puzzle enthusiasts, and families looking for a cosmic activity, the scavenger hunts offer something for everyone.
So, strap on your space boots, grab your mission log, and prepare for liftoff. Join us at the Manitowoc Public Library and let the Lyrids meteor shower spark your imagination as you chase cosmic clues. The galaxy is calling—are you ready to answer?!