I truly wish there was a greater focus on the integrating the arts into the classroom, and that there were more opportunities for after-school enrichment for kids. I believe the arts give children a method and inspiration to learn about the world around them.

 

To help further this, I offer craft classes through Victor Parks & Recreation. These classes are a great way for kids to explore unique materials and processes in a fun after-school environment. I've taught classes in basic sewing, needle felting, quilling and many other media. Classes are method or theme based, I dislike "kit" classes where all of the resulting projects look the same- I much prefer seeing what the kids come up with when they're shown the basics, and allowed to create freely. I've had several parents tell me (weeks later) about how their son or daughter taught a sibling, or was inspired to create more outside of class.

 

I also offer several science-based craft classes including how to build bristle bots (tiny toothbrush robots that scoot around), how to build a basic electric motors, and my summer Space Camp always fills up fast.