BACK-TO-SCHOOL
“Their art choices
are always so
in-depth, much
more than just
painting and
drawing. These
kids are never just
killing time.”
of activities that might
include literacy, drama,
science experimentation or
manipulative building.
“We pride ourselves on
involving kids in different
activities throughout the
day. Once kids get bored,
you lose them,” Myers said.
From science projects
that are also art, like creating and playing with “slime,” to woodworking, Myers
says they strive for both a “play” and “learn” aspect. For example, a group might
repurpose electronic parts and turn them into a robot, allowing kids to exercise
both creativity and fine motor skills.
Kirsi Baird Barber, director of before-and-after-school programs for Campfire
Columbia, which reaches kids around the Portland area and in West Linn,
said the group’s “Choice and Voice” program ensures that that kids are directly
involved in choosing the activities.
Through surveys, suggestion boxes and brainstorming sessions, they seek
input from the kids and families on what activities they’d like. “We have found
that kids are most engaged when they are interested in the subject matter so we
want to tap into that,” she said.
continues on page 16
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