Programming for 8-11 year olds!

Last semester we kicked off a class called Spark! It was designed for 8-11 year olds and was so much fun! 

We focus on building in 21st century skills for kids such as innovation, collaboration, communication and solution driven thinking! 

This age group has quite a few options for the upcoming year!

Monday Clubs:

Chemistry In The Kitchen: "Chemistry in the Kitchen" by Guest Hollow is an innovative educational course that combines the principles of chemistry with everyday cooking activities. This unique approach allows students to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiments and culinary projects. By mixing ingredients, observing chemical reactions, and understanding the science behind cooking techniques, learners gain a practical and engaging understanding of chemistry. This course makes complex scientific ideas accessible and fun, transforming the kitchen into a dynamic learning environment where education and everyday life intersect.

Books & Art: In this engaging art class for kids, students will dive into the world of children's book illustrations, exploring the unique styles and techniques of beloved illustrators such as Eric Carle, Dr. Seuss, and Beatrix Potter. Each week, the class will focus on a different illustrator, examining their artistic methods and signature elements. Through hands-on activities, children will learn to replicate these techniques, using a variety of materials like watercolor, collage, and pen-and-ink. By the end of the course, students will not only gain a deeper appreciation for children's literature but also develop their own illustrative skills, culminating in the creation of their very own illustrated storybook.

Gym Club: In this fun and energetic gym class designed for kids aged 8-11, students will engage in a variety of physical activities aimed at promoting fitness, teamwork, and healthy habits. Each session features a mix of games, sports, and exercises tailored to develop coordination, strength, and endurance. Activities range from classic team sports like soccer and basketball to exciting obstacle courses and cooperative games that encourage collaboration and fair play. With a focus on building confidence and fostering a love for physical activity, this gym class ensures that every child has the opportunity to stay active and enjoy themselves in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Would You Rather: "Would You Rather" is a dynamic research tools class for kids ages 8-11 that blends fun with learning to develop critical thinking and research skills. In each session, students are presented with intriguing "Would You Rather" questions that require them to investigate, compare, and analyze various topics. Through guided research activities, children learn how to gather information from different sources, evaluate the reliability of data, and present their findings. This interactive approach not only makes research engaging but also helps students enhance their decision-making skills, all while having a great time exploring diverse and thought-provoking scenarios.

Spark! Wednesday: This exciting class for kids aged 8-11 combines coding, Canva skills, engineering, and robotics to foster creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise. Students will start by learning basic coding concepts, using fun and interactive platforms to create simple programs and games. They'll also explore graphic design with Canva, crafting visually appealing projects that enhance their digital literacy. In the engineering and robotics segments, kids will engage in hands-on activities, building and programming robots to complete various challenges. This multidisciplinary approach not only introduces students to essential 21st-century skills but also encourages innovation and teamwork, preparing them for a future where technology and creativity intersect.

Spark! Thursday: This innovative class for kids aged 8-11 combines geometry, nature exploration, survival skills, and community service into an engaging, interdisciplinary curriculum. Students will embark on outdoor adventures where they learn geometric concepts by studying shapes and patterns found in nature, such as the symmetry of leaves and the angles of spider webs. They'll acquire essential survival skills, like building shelters and navigating with a compass, applying their geometric knowledge in real-world contexts. Additionally, the class emphasizes community service, with projects like creating nature trails or organizing clean-up events, teaching students the importance of giving back to their community while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world. This holistic approach ensures that learning is both practical and meaningful, cultivating well-rounded, environmentally-conscious citizens.