KINDERGARTEN
Imagination Station Films (Gr. K-1) Children will learn the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into making their own films, including special effects, creating story arcs, and more. Theater games and improvisation, and inventive use of props/costumes will be used to encourage children's creative expression. Amey Goerlich has taught children's filmmaking for more than a decade.
Note: A $50 supplemental fee is charged.
MacKids: Explore! (Computer/iPad; Gr. K-1) Students will enjoy our Computer Lab's wide selection of educational software, with a focus on graphics and basic literacy and math skills. Hands-on explorations of creative and educational apps on iPad tablets will be led by PS87 teachers including Bob D'Andrea and Lisa Shlansky.
Judo A (Gr. K-1) This class will build confidence and develop children's self-awareness and physical fitness. Falling, tumbling, throwing, pinning, and escape techniques are taught. Judo uniforms (available from the instructor) are required. Grouping is by age and ability. Sensei Robin Rosenthal, Black belt in Karate, Judo, Aikido, and Jujutsu, and 7-time US Olympic Training Camp champion, has taught martial arts and self-defense to thousands of children, including at PS87. She particularly enjoys teaching children Judo, the so-called "gentle" Japanese martial arts discipline.
Note: For more individual attention, children in Judo A and Judo B meet in small groups; each group receives 45 minutes of Judo instruction and spends the other 45 minutes with a PS87 coach in activities supporting instruction.
YogaKids (Gr. K-2), see below.
Mandarin Chinese (Gr. K-2), see below.
GRADES 1 TO 2
Imagination Station Films (Gr. K-1), see above.
MacKids: Explore! (Computer/iPad; Gr. K-1), see above.
All-Star Team Sports: Soccer/Baseball (Gr. 1-3), see below.
Chess & Other Strategic Board Games (Beginners), see below.
Judo A (Gr. K-1) and Judo B (Gr. 2-5), see description above. Judo instruction is also available on Thursdays for grades K (Judo C) and grades 1-2 (Judo D); class limits will be strictly observed.
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) 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. Children will not need to have had previous exposure to Mandarin Chinese to benefit from this class. In a fun, enjoyable environment, teachers will utilize formal instruction as well as songs, games, stories, and crafts. Taught by The China School instructors including experienced Mandarin teacher Shih-Hui Lee (Nicole).
Young Minds Do Einstein A hands-on approach to the scientific process, under the direction of noted science educator and author Mary Carson, working with PS87 Afterschool teachers, 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 two 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. Under the direction of popular "Softball Sluggers" coach Mike Vega and coach Francis Arena.
Chess & Other Strategic Board Games (Beginners 1-2; 3-5) Children will learn the elements of chess, and will also explore other strategic board games. New players and beginning-level players are welcome; children will be grouped by age and ability after meeting the instructors. Teachers include National Chess Master Joe Lux, an experienced coach in NYC school and afterschool programs; strategic board game instruction led by trained KidzMath teachers Gloria Zwick and Bernard Zwick.
GRADES 3 TO 6
Chess & Other Strategic Board Games (Beginners), see above.
Judo B (Gr. 2-5), see description for Judo A (K-1) above.
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. Creative exploration of music apps on our new iPads will be a special feature. 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: A $50 supplemental fee is charged.
Hip-Hop Dance In addition to 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. Co-teachers include dancer/choreographer and PS87 teacher Ana Elosegui.
Snapshots & Scrapbooks (Digital Photography) Using digital cameras, students will learn the basics of color photography, and then learn how to use their photos with personal mementos, stickers, and decorative paper to design imaginative scrapbooks and other creative keepsakes. Taught by experienced Afterschool creative arts teacher Brittany Hall.