Summer Programmes

You had greate suggestions for summer programmes. For those of you not at the meeting, what we discussed were ideas for two types of programmes: library run and paid (external presenters). From what you told me, I need to look into programmes that are highly interactive with lots of participation and an emphasis on social interaction .
We also discussed the idea that I would put together a committee of teen volunteers that could run programmes for kids - this could be anything from telling stories or getting the kids to put on plays, doing puppet shows, etc to teaching crafts like origami or beading. Sonika and Jessica have graciously offered to help get me in touch with some people that might be interested in volunteering for this opportunity. Here's what I'm thinking: I'll start recruiting people in January/February and maybe bring the goup together for planning sessions beginning in March or April. The time committment would be similar to TAGs, with more frequent/longer meetings in the summer prior to running the programmes. What we might like to do (this will depend on the Children's staff) is set up a drop in programme where kids and their caregivers can come in, play, and then participate in crafts etc - the volunteers could also run the drop in programme. It would be a lot of work, but a great opportunity for people who wanted experience working with kids/or who might like to become teachers. If you guys know anyone like this, let them know that this opportunity is coming up. They would have to be really enthusiastic, willing to take a lot of initiative and work independently and be quite creative/have a skill they could teach the kids.

As for paid programmes, you seemed to like the idea of the art camp instructor's programme so hopefully we can get her. Some of the programmes we've successfully run in past summers were leadership and creative writing. Let me know if you think of anything else that might appeal to teens (actually, think in terms of what your parents might want to get you to do, since a lot of the time the poor teens get signed up for these things against their will.)