By: Amy Filippone, Parks & Recreation Dept.
This year’s summer art camp was a huge success with a full roster of 51 students, aged kindergarten through fifth grade. Students painted, drew and sculpted mythical creatures like dragons, yetis, mermaids and unicorns. Sophia Geiger, the art instructor, provides depth as well as inspiration to her pupils.
“Why are so many ancient cultures talking about similar creatures? It’s interesting subject matter and I like to make it all encompassing, one thing builds on another,” Geiger said.
The favorite project was the “Book of Dragons” where Geiger says they had different stencils to trace different parts of dragons so you could mix and match and create very individualized creatures. Then, they had to think about where they’re from and what powers they have.
This fall, the Parks and Recreation Department has some great classes where kids can explore their creativity and learn to express themselves through art, song and dance. All classes are kept small for optimal learning, so register soon.
Art classes for kindergartners and first graders will be on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to noon beginning Sept. 7 through Oct. 12. For second and third graders, the class will be the same dates from noon to 1 p.m. Children will explore the beautiful world and culture of Morocco and will weave miniature rugs, design lanterns and discuss the many styles of tile patterns.
Mommy and me dance classes for parents and children aged 18 months to three years will be on Fridays, from noon to 12:45 p.m. starting Sept. 20 through Nov. 8. Children and parents have an opportunity to bond through dance, song and creative movement. Children will be introduced to dance through stretching, creative play aided by the use of sensory props to develop gross motor skills while stimulating the imagination. This is a first look at a classroom setting and social interaction for youngsters.
Creative dance for children aged four will be held every Friday from 1:30 to 2:20 p.m. from Sept. 20 through Nov. 8. Children will be introduced to pre-ballet, jazz and tap. Through the use of song and activities and the use of props such as crowns, wands, parachutes, bean bags and ribbons, children will refine their gross motor skills. The focus is on listening, following directions, rhythm, musicality, movement and fun.
Vocal classes for grades three through eight will be on Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sept. 11, Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 9. The course is designed to prepare students for performing live, on-stage with an emphasis on the fundamentals of vocal technique. This first hour of class begins with vocal warm-ups and techniques where they will learn breath control, posture and vocal health. The second hour will focus the intricacies of performance. Students will learn how to interact with an audience, through eye contact, physical expression as well as how to handle stage fright.
All classes will be held on the third floor of the Church Street Recreation Center. To register and for full details visit www.moorestownrec.com
