Back to School Bonanza | Saturday, August 10, 9–2
Back to School Bonanza | Saturday, August 10, 9–2
How long is each program? How many sessions?
Arts & Maker After School is an on-going program. Each class lasts for two hours (3 p.m. to 5 p.m.) and prompts participants to continue to explore the subject matter in new and unique ways. Participants sign up for a session (4 weeks of Tuesdays or Wednesdays) creating an in-depth opportunity for young artists, engineers, designers, and inventors to expand their creative problem-solving skill set.
Can you provide a sample schedule?
Do Children do the same activity every week?
No. Each week will have an overarching theme that explores different subject matter using different tools and techniques. Each week presents a different challenge/topic for us to explore.
How much parent involvement is required for this program?
Our after-school program is designed to be open and accessible to a wide variety of families. We want your child to experience the joy of making, “aha!” moments of discovery, and feel successful (even when their project doesn’t turn out as planned). In order to make all of that happen we will need their important adult’s support and participation.
Your level of involvement will depend on several factors including:
Is Arts & Maker After School a live video stream or is it pre-recorded?
The program will utilize a variety of resources including pre-recorded videos, online instructions, and activities guides that provide learning prompts. Each day will have an Opening Meeting, Open Studio Hour, and Closing Meeting.
What is the approximate amount of time a student will sit in front of a screen?
Our after school program relies on childrens’ ability to engage with materials and ideas. The materials sent home provide inspiration, the live video conferencing meetings and open studios provide context and support. There is approximately 1 hour of scheduled screen time per day, with the open studio session being voluntary/optional. The majority of the program happens interacting with materials, ideas, and playfully experimenting! Make sure your child has a dedicated workspace.
Who will facilitate Arts & Maker After School?
Dustin Thacker, Arts and Maker Specialist, will lead each Opening Meeting, and will co-facilitate the Open Studio session along with special guests. As the Arts and Maker Specialist, Dustin creates multi-disciplinary experiences that integrate art, math, and science while designing an environment that reinforces the importance of open-ended and hands-on exploration.
Will there be an opportunity to meet the program facilitator?
There will be a Caregiver Information Meeting scheduled for 6 pm on the Monday before the program begins via video conferencing. This will be your chance to ask questions, better understand the tools and materials in the Materials Box, and how to help your child be successful in this unique virtual program.
How will the facilitator communicate with parents throughout the camp?
In addition to the Caregiver Information Meeting, a mid-point email will update caregivers on progress and participation, give highlights, and offer extra support where needed.
What type of technology will families need to access the virtual platform? Will a smartphone, tablet, PC, Mac, or Chromebook work?
Any computer, tablet, or phone with an internet connection can be used to participate. Children will need audio and video capabilities to participate in the Opening/Closing Meetings and Open Studio.
Do participants need to use a keyboard and/or mouse OR can they watch the screen and follow along without ever having to use additional components?
Children are expected to have video and audio connected to our Meetings and Open Studio sessions and to be able to interact appropriately during those sessions – including using the chat and other interactive features to communicate.
How will children/families access the online resources?
Resources will be available through a secure online application called Bublup. Families will have access to all of the online resources, links to the video conferences and other supportive materials all in one place. After receiving the invite to Bublup, you will be prompted to create a username and password to have access to the program’s curriculum.
Will children participate in any activities that could potentially damage the technology they are using for the program?
Yes. At the first meeting we will go through safety protocols, to protect themselves, their family, and their stuff. Participants will also receive safety instructions to review with their adults.
Will children receive materials to use during the program?
Yes. Each child will receive a Materials Box for each session which includes essential items to complete projects and fun extras. Boxes can be picked up at the Museum the days prior to the program, or delivered for a $25 fee.
Will children need any household items or supplies in addition to the provided kits to participate?
You are encouraged to create a Reuse Center and start collecting “potentially useful” materials. This could include a wide variety of recyclables and art supplies: cardboard boxes and tubes (of all kinds), caps and lids, containers and canisters of all sizes. Your Reuse Center could also include a wide variety of random household items: paperclips, straws, string or yarn, coffee stirrers, clothespins, etc.