MONDAY CLUBS
KINDERGARTEN
Imagination Station Films Children will learn the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into making their own films, including special effects, lighting, and more. Theater games and improvisation, and inventive use of props/costumes will be used to encourage children's creative expression and self-confidence. Amey Goerlich has been teaching children's theatre/film for more than a decade.
Note: A $50 materials fee is charged to cover additional costs for production and DVDs.
Masters of Invention (Lego/Kapla Builders) A terrific club designed to encourage creative problem solving and critical thinking skills. Children will be involved in engaging projects that will include building Lego models and working with programmable Robot Roamers as well as materials such as Kapla architectural blocks. Taught by PS87's own Bob ("the Builder") D'Andrea.
YogaKids (Gr. K-2) Through simple, fun exercises combining breathing and movement, children will discover the many benefits of yoga -- from balanced energy and improved flexibility and strength, to increased focus and concentration. Yoga is relaxing and noncompetitive -- and with Claudia, it’s fun, too! Certified yoga instructor Claudia Zangrillo has taught children's yoga for more than a decade.
Mandarin Chinese (Gr. K-2), see below.
GRADES 1 TO 2
Imagination Station Films (Gr. K-1), see above.
YogaKids (Gr. K-2), see above.
All-Star Team Sports: Soccer/Baseball (Gr. 1-3), see below.
Mandarin Chinese (Gr. K-2) An introduction to Chinese culture and language, organized by The China School founder Gongzhan Wu, also known as George Wu by many China adoptive families. In a fun, enjoyable environment, teachers will utilize formal instruction as well as songs, games, stories, and crafts. Children will not need to have had previous exposure to Mandarin Chinese.
Magic for Muggles & Other Would-Be Wizards Second-grade teacher Lisa Shlansky and experienced theatre and performer Sarah ("The Sorcerer") Hankins have traveled to Harry Potter country and beyond to find imaginative books, creative projects, and performing magic tools and tricks our young wizards can try at home to amaze family and friends. Custom-designed materials will be provided to each child.
Young Minds Do Einstein A hands-on approach to the scientific process, taught by noted science educator and author Mary Carson, working with education specialists from the American Museum of Natural History, Riverside Park and others. Like last year's award winning program, this term promises a terrific mix of scientific facts and exciting hands-on activities. Kids love this class!
GRADES 2 TO 3
All-Star Team Sports: Soccer/Baseball (Gr. 1-3) Baseball and soccer instruction (two eight-week sessions) from seasoned pros from some of NYC's most popular programs, including Carlos
Oliveira Soccer Academy. Using specialized equipment, age appropriate drills, and fun games, coaches have developed customized programs that are designed to guarantee a successful, enjoyable experience for girls and boys. In order to build more small-group skill-building experiences, players will use other PS87 program spaces as well as the Gym. Under the direction of popular "Softball Sluggers" coach Mike Vega.
KidChef Bakery Children will discover fabulous culinary treats from around the world (baklava to die for!) as they experience the hands-on enjoyment that comes in the preparation. Children
will learn to read recipes, try new foods, and create old favorites to share. (If you thought pizza comes only from takeout, just wait until you learn to make your own from scratch!) Magda Kamel, experienced PS87 Afterschool cooking and pastry teacher, with 2nd grade teacher Ana Elosequi.
Chess Masters (Gr. 2+), see below.
GRADES 3 TO 6
Chess Masters (Gr. 2+) Children will learn the elements of chess from an experienced coach. All ability levels, including new players, are welcome. Children will be grouped by age and ability. Taught by National Chess Master Joe Lux, an experienced chess instructor and coach in NYC school and afterschool programs.
Hip-Hop Dance In addition to super-fun dance moves and routines, children learn about the history, richness and beauty behind African-American art forms known as hip-hop dance, b-boying, popping, and funk. Juilliard-trained actor, dancer, and choreographer Kambi Gathesha has performed in and helped stage works for Lincoln Center, Streak Dance Concept, MTV (specials featuring Beyonce and the Neptunes), and PMT Dance Company, among others. Taught with PS87 drama teacher Sandra Gumbs.
Weird Science Invention is the key word for our young scientists -- we'll make flubber, exploding volcanoes, invisible ink, and other kitchen chemistry concoctions, explore the physics of rockets, and much more! A highlight of this class will be miniworkshops on "Crazy Chemistry," "Gross Biology," and "Far-Out Physics" taught by specialists at the Children's Museum of Manhattan.
Rap, Rock & Roll (iTunes/Garage Band) In this fascinating tour of digital recorded music, we’ll be using Garage Band and iTunes software, among others, as we write our own music and burn our band's CDs. Stephen Jacobs has recorded hundreds of original compositions with children; his Dirty Sock Funtime Band, nominated Best New Artist by Children's Music Web Awards, has been featured on Nickelodeon and performed in clubs, concerts, and festivals across the United States.
Note: This club may be taken as a full-year experience; children who register for both semesters will be given a personalized iPod shuffle. There is a materials fee of $50.