Wednesday, February 17, 2010

"Take a Break!" Gives Students a Break from Break


While winter break means no early alarms or homework for students, it can also mean long days spent on the couch. Fortunately, the education coordinator at the Everson Museum of Art found a way to get 15 Syracuse boys and girls out and about.

"This time of year, things become very mundane and sort of routine for kids. This is something new and exciting and allows them to express themselves creatively," says Education Coordinator Victoria Gray.

Gray is holding "Take a Break!" sessions this week at the Everson Museum of Art for elementary school students. With the help of volunteer Marilyn Post, the two women lead gallery explorations, set up art projects and play games with the kids for two hours every morning.

Post says having the program allows the kids to interact with new people and engage their creative sides.

"With many of the kids, we use a system called visual thinking strategy. We tour each exhibition and try to have [them] really look at things. It's a cross-over skill that helps them improve writing and logic," Post says.

Phillip Tam, 8, says he is having a great time because the sessions keep him busy.

"I made a collage and had a tour," he said while drawing a picture of curvy lines and shyly hiding his smile.

The program ends Friday, but Gray says she holds art classes for kids throughout the year.



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