Summer Explorations @FarBrook

Exciting virtual summer explorations begin June 8.

  • June 8 through August 21 – No classes the week of June 29-July 3. Some courses are available as part of a 5-week series, meeting 1 late afternoon per week.
  • Special Preview Week for Far Brook Lower School students during Week 1: June 8-12
  • Open to students entering Grades N3s-9 in the fall
  • Morning classes begin at 9:00; Afternoon classes begin at 12:30
  • Both the Morning and Afternoon explorations will include one-hour LIVE time on Zoom for instruction and socializing , as well as a one-hour activity for independent exploration. For the younger age group, the LIVE Zoom class time and follow up activity will be adjusted to their developmental needs. 
  • Limited space available. Registration is open to the public
  • $125/class – where noted, there may be an additional charge for materials purchased and available for pickup at Far Brook. Other supplies are listed and families are asked to have them ready for the start of the week. 
  • Far Brook families who would like to inquire about tuition assistance, please reach out to Emi Ithen at eithen@farbrook.org.
  • Pay by credit card or check
  • Cancellation policy: All classes are finalized 2 weeks prior to the class start date. No refunds or changes will be made after this point. If the School needs to cancel a class, credit can either be applied to a different class or refunded.
  • General questions? Email summer@farbrook.org

Below, see a detailed description of classes available for each week in June, July, and August or see the At-a-Glance listing on the right. Scroll down to register.

June – Morning Classes

Week 1: June 8-12, Mornings

STEAM EXPLORATION: Rube Goldberg Machines ◊ Chris Murphy
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed: books, dominoes, legos, marbles, toy cars, paper towel rolls, etc. 

Calling all future engineers! Over the course of the week, we will work on exploring actions and reactions in order to build a chain reaction. During this always-popular exploration, students will use easily accessible materials that could be found in your home to make fun and dynamic cascades. The week will conclude with a showing of our virtual Rube Goldberg machine. Please email cmurphy@farbrook.org with any questions.

STEAM EXPLORATION: Life Hacks ◊ Mike Chodroff
Grades 6-9
Supplies Needed: paper, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, tape, scissors, ruler, yarn, upcyclable materials – cardboard, plastic bottles, paper towel rolls, etc. 

Through the lens of design thinking, students will have the opportunity to create innovative solutions to some everyday inconveniences while considering environmental problems that we face in the 21st century.  Life Hacks will provide structured and unstructured time for understanding challenges, brainstorming solutions, designing and building prototypes, and testing products.  Please email mchodroff@farbrook.org with any questions.

 

Week 2: June 15-19, Mornings

Hand-Building Clay Class ◊ Rob Olazagasti
Grades N4-1
Supplies Needed:  2-4 lbs of clay (earthen or air dry), acrylic paint, and a basic ceramic tool kit. 

This class will introduce children to the wonderful medium of clay. Students will create meaningful and exciting projects using hand-building techniques, including sculpting animals and caricatures, pinch pots, coil pots, geometric tiles, and more. Both directed projects and experimentation will be supported and encouraged as each child’s skill evolves over the course of the workshop. Students will observe and critique masterworks of pottery and ceramics by artists like Elizabeth Catlett and Pablo Picasso, while at the same time gathering inspiration for their own original creations. Pieces will be left bone dry and will remain un-fired, and painted rather than glazed. Please email rolazagasti@farbrook.org with any questions.

*Participants may also join us for a virtual play session and Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

STEAM EXPLORATION: Life Hacks ◊ Mike Chodroff
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed: paper, pencils, markers, crayons, glue, tape, scissors, ruler, yarn, upcyclable materials – cardboard, plastic bottles, paper towel rolls, etc. 

Through the lens of design thinking, students will have the opportunity to create innovative solutions to some everyday inconveniences while considering environmental problems that we face in the 21st century.  Life Hacks will provide structured and unstructured time for understanding challenges, brainstorming solutions, designing and building prototypes, and testing products. Please email mchodroff@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 3: June 22-26, Mornings

Create Your Own Adventure Story ◊Jennifer Amosa
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  paper and pencil

Review some basic phonics through this experiential literacy camp. You get the to be the superhero and main character of your story. Will you battle against monsters? Save the world from a scary storm? It is totally up to you. In this writer’s workshop, students will learn the basics of a narrative writing, and share their beautiful creation on the last day of camp. 

Hand-Building Clay Class ◊ Rob Olazagasti
Grades 2-4
Supplies Needed:  2-4 lbs of clay (earthen or air dry), acrylic paint, and a basic ceramic tool kit. 

Children will explore the wonderful medium of clay. Students will create meaningful and exciting projects using hand-building techniques, including sculpting animals and caricatures, pinch pots, coil pots, geometric tiles, and more. Both directed projects and experimentation will be supported and encouraged as each child’s skill evolves over the course of the workshop. Students will observe and critique masterworks of pottery and ceramics by artists like Elizabeth Catlett and Pablo Picasso, while at the same time gathering inspiration for their own original creations. Pieces will be left bone dry and will remain un-fired, and painted rather than glazed. Please email rolazagasti@farbrook.org with any questions.

STEAM EXPLORATION: DIY Rocket Science – Aerospace Engineering ◊ Chris Murphy
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed: 1 – 2 L bottles, baking soda, vinegar, and at-home crafting materials.

3… 2… 1… Blast off! Using an introduction to physics we will learn how rockets fly. Using a combination of digital and physical tools, we will learn about rocket science and perform backyard experiments to find out what makes a rocket fly. Please email cmurphy@farbrook.org with any questions.

Reading Strategies – 1st Session ◊ Amy Tomsey
Grades 5-6
Supplies Needed: 
paper and something to write with

Join this reading group! Let’s keep our reading going with summer strategy work.  Students will have a chance to read, discuss, analyze, and practice skills from the school year as we dive into discussions and work together. Please check in with your classroom literacy teacher to see if this class is appropriate for your child. Please email atomsey@farbrook.org with any questions.

June – Afternoon Classes

No Afternoon
Week 2: June 15-19, Afternoons

Musical Fun With Stories, Rhymes, and Fingerplays ◊ Erasmia Voukelatos
Grades N3-2
Supplies Needed:  Puppets, dolls, stuffed animals. Common household items that we will make into simple instruments. 

Come sing, dance, move, and play as we explore songs from many parts of the world – together! Bring your puppets, stuffed animals, dolls, and family members – including pets. Questions? Please email evoukelatos@farbrook.org.

*Participants may also join us for a virtual play session and Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Kitchen Chemistry! ◊ Megan Gottlieb
Grades 3-4
Supplies Needed: basic kitchen supplies (bowls, spoons, measuring cups, baking ingredients) as well as a few specific materials including Elmer’s glue, shaving cream, contact solution, vinegar, cornstarch, and model magic.

Get ready to experiment, explore and maaaaaybe get a little messy as we turn common kitchen supplies into an interactive science laboratory! We will explore the scientific method, make predictions and observations, and investigate the properties of substances while having lots of fun. Join us as we explore classic favorites like slime, oobleck, volcanoes and more! Please email mgottlieb@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 3: June 22-26, Afternoons

Junior Explorers: Space! ◊ Megan Gottlieb
Grades 1-3
Supplies Needed:  Students will need access to basic craft supplies at home.

Let’s explore the wonders of our universe! Activities will include read aloud stories, informative slides and graphics, drawing, building and sculpting, movement activities, video clips, games, and discussion.  Students will learn about a variety of space-related topics–the solar system, stars, the moon, space exploration and more. Get ready to blast off on a summer adventure! Please contact Megan at mgottlieb@farbrook.org with any questions.

Orchestra! ◊ Milan Milinkovic
Grades 6-9: Open to Far Brook Orchestra students in 2019-2020
Supplies Needed: Student’s instrument, phone or computer, and headphones

Orchestra, let’s make another virtual performance!!! Discover a new world that combines instrumental performance with technology (Final Cut Pro X is being used – trial subscription). Some of our alumni will be joining us! Check out our previous project hereIf the session is very popular, we will divide into 2 smaller groups. Questions? Please contact mmilinkovic@farbrook.org

5-Week Series @4:00 PM

June - July: 5-Week Series and Add-ons

Kids in the Kitchen Summer Edition ◊ Suzanne Glatt
*Free add-on for younger students, where noted – no registration necessary.
Thursdays (except July 2), 4-5 PM
Supplies Needed:  Simple ingredients are used and there is always flexibility to account for sensitivities, allergies, and availability of ingredients. Recipes for this series will be sent prior to the start of class.

Join Suzanne for a weekly cooking experience right from your own kitchen! These “Grown-up and me” sessions are interactive, fun, and created specifically for our younger audience. In addition to teaching the basics about measuring, mixing, and baking; through cooking together we will share opportunities for collaboration and teamwork in the kitchen, creative thinking, patience, adaptation, and the importance of healthy and balanced eating which does include delicious treats! Questions? Email sglatt@farbrook.org.

Avid Readers’ Book Club: Third Grade Favorites ◊ Megan Martin
Grades 2-3
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: June 16, 23, July 7, 14, 21
Supplies Needed: access to the books assigned each week and a journal to jot ideas. 

Come together to read and discuss a few beloved Third Grade Books. It will be a time to learn about the authors, critic’s views, and most importantly take a deep dive into some of our favorite titles. Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. Please email mmartin@farbrook.org with any questions.

Avid Readers’ Book Club ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 4-5
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: June 16, 23, July 7, 14, 21
Supplies Needed: Individual Membership to the Epic app and a journal to jot ideas.

Come together and discuss a new book each week from a variety of genres. In our first session we will together decide on the books we will read over the summer. It will be a time to learn about the author, hear what the critics thought, and experience books you might not usually pick up. Enjoy sharing what you loved, or didn’t love so much, with a group of other readers. Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. Please email mboewe@farbrook.org  with any questions.

Avid Readers’ Book Club: Summer Reads ◊ Valerie McEntee
Grades 6-8
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: June 16, 23, July 7, 14, 21
Supplies Needed: access to the books assigned each week and a journal to jot ideas. 

Come together and discuss a new book each week from a variety of genres. In our first session we will together decide on the books we will read over the summer. It will be a time to learn about the author, hear what the critics thought, and experience books you might not usually pick up. Enjoy sharing what you loved, or didn’t love so much, with a group of other readers. Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. Please email vmcentee@farbrook.org with any questions.

July - August: 5-Week Series and Add-ons

Kids in the Kitchen Summer Edition ◊ Suzanne Glatt
*Free add-on for younger students, where noted – no registration necessary.
Thursdays (except July 2), 4-5 PM
Supplies Needed:  Simple ingredients are used and there is always flexibility to account for sensitivities, allergies, and availability of ingredients. Recipes for this series will be sent prior to the start of class.

Join Suzanne for a weekly cooking experience right from your own kitchen! These “Grown-up and me” sessions are interactive, fun, and created specifically for our younger audience. In addition to teaching the basics about measuring, mixing, and baking; through cooking together we will share opportunities for collaboration and teamwork in the kitchen, creative thinking, patience, adaptation, and the importance of healthy and balanced eating which does include delicious treats! Questions? Email sglatt@farbrook.org.

Avid Readers’ Book Club ◊ Ke Kim
Grades 2-3
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: July 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
Supplies Needed: access to the books assigned each week and a journal to jot ideas. 

Come together to read and discuss a few great books! Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. 

Avid Readers’ Book Club ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 4-5
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: July 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
Supplies Needed: Individual Membership to the Epic app and a journal to jot ideas.

Come together and discuss a new book each week from a variety of genres. In our first session we will together decide on the books we will read over the summer. It will be a time to learn about the author, hear what the critics thought, and experience books you might not usually pick up. Enjoy sharing what you loved, or didn’t love so much, with a group of other readers. Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. Please email mboewe@farbrook.org  with any questions.

Avid Readers’ Book Club ◊ Valerie McEntee
Grades 6-8
Tuesdays, 4-5 PM: July 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
Supplies Needed: access to the books assigned each week and a journal to jot ideas. 

Come together and discuss a new book each week from a variety of genres. In our first session we will together decide on the books we will read over the summer. It will be a time to learn about the author, hear what the critics thought, and experience books you might not usually pick up. Enjoy sharing what you loved, or didn’t love so much, with a group of other readers. Set yourself up with a glass of lemonade and a late afternoon snack, and settle in for some company and good talk at the end of the day. Please email vmcentee@farbrook.org with any questions.

 

This Isn’t Your Everyday Math Class ◊ Daquan Mickens
Grades 5-9
Thursdays, 4-5 PM: July 30, Aug 6, 13, 20, 27
Supplies Needed: pencil, paper 

Students will explore how we use Math (and especially Algebra) to solve problems in everyday life. Areas we will explore include, but are not limited to: Sports, Cooking, Business and Finance, and the Arts. Please email dmickens@farbrook.org with any questions.

July – Morning Classes

Week 4: July 6-10, Mornings

IMAGINARIUM! Learning through Play ◊ Jennifer Amosa
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  Included in “Camp In A Box” which will be available for pickup at Far Brook prior to start. 

Each week, campers will travel the world through their imagination. Destinations include a sandy shore, a mountain adventure, deep space, and so much more!  Weekly activities will include story time and storytelling, music and movement, puppetry, and crafts.  Campers will gather on Zoom on the final day of camp to recap their adventures. Campers will gather on the final day of camp to recap their adventures. This virtual performance will take place via Zoom. Questions? Please email jamosa@farbrook.org.

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Kitchen Chemistry! ◊ Megan Gottlieb
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed: access to basic kitchen supplies (bowls, spoons, measuring cups, baking ingredients) as well as a few specific materials including Elmer’s glue, shaving cream, contact solution, vinegar, cornstarch, and model magic

Get ready to experiment, explore and maaaaaybe get a little messy as we turn common kitchen supplies into an interactive science laboratory! We will explore the scientific method, make predictions and observations, and investigate the properties of substances while having lots of fun. Join us as we explore classic favorites like slime, oobleck, volcanoes and more! Questions? Please email mgottlieb@farbrook.org.

STEAM Exploration: LEGO Masters ◊ Chris Murphy
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed:  LEGOs

Join our (virtual) LEGO building competition! Each day, campers will be challenged to build a structure fitting a certain theme and requirements. Throughout the course, the campers will get together via video chat and share their creations with the other builders. Please email cmurphy@farbrook.org with any questions.

Hogwarts at Home◊ Lauren Kronthal
Grades 5-9
Supplies Needed: basic craft and cooking supplies at home. Also need some specific items: red cabbage and a phone/iPad/or computer to record videos. 

Wish you were a wizard? Here is your chance to spend a week as a student at Hogwarts. Hop on the Hogwarts Express and get ready to try on the virtual “sorting hat.” Each day, you will attend a different class. Perform a science experiment in Potions, train a pet in Care of Magical Creatures, transform yourself into an animagus in Transfiguration, and more. Stretch your imagination and let your creativity shine in this magical STEAM adventure into the world of Harry Potter. For any questions, please contact lkronthal@farbrook.org

Week 5: July 13-17, Mornings

IMAGINARIUM! Learning through Play ◊ Jennifer Amosa
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  Included in “Camp Box” which will be available for pickup at Far Brook prior to camp.

Each week, campers will travel the world through their imagination. Destinations include a sandy shore, a mountain adventure, deep space, and so much more!  Weekly activities will include story time and storytelling, music and movement, puppetry, and crafts.  Campers will gather on Zoom on the final day of camp to recap their adventures. Questions? Please email jamosa@farbrook.org.

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Number Explorers ◊ TBD
Grades 1-3
Supplies Needed:  pencil and notebook

Numbers and math is all around us. Let’s go on a virtual and physical scavenger hunt to explore how math is applied in the real and natural world. In this experiential math camp, we will review basic addition, subtraction and multiplication math facts through songs, movements, and more.

Painting Like An Artist!◊ Rob Olazagasti
Grades 3-6
Supplies Needed:  basic watercolor set, basic acrylic set, canvas paper, and a variety of paintbrushes

This class will introduce students to the history and evolution of painting. Students will take an artistic journey through various eras of painted works; from primitive cave paintings of Lascaux to the elaborate works of the Renaissance artists like Davinci and Raphael. Students will explore and practice different painting techniques in watercolor, tempera, and acrylic media. The course will focus on developing understanding and appreciation for the art of painting, at the same time encouraging students to develop their own styles and techniques. Please email rolazagasti@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 6: July 20-24, Mornings

Painting Basics ◊ Rob Olazagasti
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  basic watercolor set, basic acrylic set, canvas paper, and a variety of paintbrushes.

This class will introduce students to the history and evolution of painting. Students will take an artistic journey through various eras of painted works; from primitive cave paintings of Lascaux to the elaborate works of the Renaissance artists like Davinci and Raphael. Students will explore and practice different painting techniques in watercolor, tempera, and acrylic media. The course will focus on developing understanding and appreciation for the art of painting, at the same time encouraging students to develop their own styles and techniques. Please contact rolazagasti@farbrook.org with any questions.

*Participants may also join us for a virtual play session and Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Sing Around the World ◊ Peter Ncanywa
Grades N3-K
Supplies Needed: Just an open space at home to dance and move without running into anyone or anything. Optional: access to YouTube or Spotify for creating playlists of music for independent practicing.

This “grown-up and me” class is an interactive music session filled with songs and movements. Get ready to clap, snap, and tap to joyous nursery tunes from all over the world. Questions? Please contact pncanywa@farbrook.org

*Participants may also join us for a virtual play session and Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Junior Explorers: Bridges! ◊ Megan Gottlieb
Grades 1-3
Supplies Needed:  basic craft supplies at home – paper, cardboard, scissors, string, cups, paper clips, drawing materials.

Bridges have been built for thousands of years by people all around the world – they are built to cross otherwise uncrossable places, for defense, for beauty, and to connect people and places with each other! Let’s explore the many different types of bridges through hands-on experiments, virtual field trips, design process work and more! Come think like an engineer to tinker, test and build.  Please contact Megan at mgottlieb@farbrook.org with any questions

Listening and Understanding: Historical Musical Journey ◊ Erasmia Voukelatos
Grades 4-8
Supplies Needed: Computer, printer, paper, headphones, audio listening device, comfy chair for sitting and listening! Optional: access to YouTube or Spotify for creating playlists of music. 

Have you ever found yourself falling in love with a poem, story or piece of music only after spending some extra time getting to know it? You’re invited on a brief listening journey through a few of Erasmia’s favorite classical works that are still popular today, by composers representing some 400 years of written musical history. Structured listening activities will guide students to listen more deeply and with greater understanding, gaining insight on how composers’ lives and the events of history influenced the evolution of music through the ages. Students will participate in interactive games, comparative listening exercises inside and outside of class, informal article research, and youtube watch parties of scores and live performances. For any questions, please contact evoukelatos@farbrook.org

Embroidery ◊ Lauren Kronthal
Grades 4-9
Supplies Needed: embroidery needle, embroidery floss (5 colors recommended), white or off-white cotton fabric (a muslin is best for beginners), scissors, a washable fabric marker, a needle threader (optional but recommended), an embroidery hoop (optional but recommended), and access to a computer or iPad.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to do embroidery? In this class, you will learn how to embroider on cotton fabric. First, you will transfer a design onto the fabric. Then you will learn different stitches in order to complete a pattern that can be hung as a piece of artwork. With practice, you will be able to use the embroidery skills you learn in this class to personalize items of clothing and accessories like a backpack, a cloth face mask, and more! For any questions, please contact lkronthal@farbrook.org.

Week 7: July 27-31, Mornings

IMAGINARIUM! Learning through Play ◊ Jennifer Amosa
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  Included in “Camp Box” which will be available for pickup at Far Brook prior to camp.

Each week, campers will travel the world through their imagination. Destinations include a sandy shore, a mountain adventure, deep space, and so much more!  Weekly activities will include story time and storytelling, music and movement, puppetry, and crafts.  Campers will gather on Zoom on the final day of camp to recap their adventures. Questions? Please email jamosa@farbrook.org.

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Junior Explorers: Space! ◊ Megan Gottlieb
Grades 1-3
Supplies Needed:  basic craft supplies at home

Let’s explore the wonders of our universe! Activities will include read aloud stories, informative slides and graphics, drawing, building and sculpting, movement activities, video clips, games, and discussion.  Students will learn about a variety of space-related topics–the solar system, stars, the moon, space exploration and more. Get ready to blast off on a summer adventure!  Please contact Megan at mgottlieb@farbrook.org with any questions

Micro:bit: Code and Design your own Wearable Tech ◊ Deborah Costa
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed: 
Technology kit (Add’l fee +$35) will be available for pickup at Far Brook prior to the start and includes: micro:bit, Wear:bit, Micro usb cable2 x CR2025 batteries. Must use Chromebook or Computer with usb port (no tablets). Upcyclable materials and miscellaneous crafting supplies

Have you ever wished your clothing could do more than just keep you warm? In this course, you will be introduced to the powerful and inspiring world of the Micro:bit. Using a graphical programming language, you will make your own “smart” accessories that will both entertain and inform. Get ready to create your own digital name tag, step counter, and virtual pet! Please email dcosta@farbrook.org with any questions.

—————

Create your own Realistic Fiction Short Story ◊ Erica Roark Wuerthner
Grades 4-9
Supplies Needed: Blank lined notebook for writing, Pen/pencil, Access to Google docs

Have you ever had writer’s block and do not know what to write? Writers exercise their creativity and find writing inspiration in all sorts of places. This class will teach idea generating skills, and teach students how to create interesting and compelling short stories. The genre of focus will be realistic fiction. Students will learn the art of creating complex story arcs, vivid characters, authentic dialogue, compelling action, and realistic settings. For any questions, please contact ewuerthner@farbrook.org.

Hogwarts at Home◊ Lauren Kronthal
Grades 5-9
Supplies Needed: basic craft and cooking supplies at home. Also need some specific items: red cabbage and a phone/iPad/or computer to record videos. 

Wish you were a wizard? Here is your chance to spend a week as a student at Hogwarts. Hop on the Hogwarts Express and get ready to try on the virtual “sorting hat.” Each day, you will attend a different class. Perform a science experiment in Potions, train a pet in Care of Magical Creatures, transform yourself into an animagus in Transfiguration, and more. Stretch your imagination and let your creativity shine in this magical STEAM adventure into the world of Harry Potter. For any questions, please contact lkronthal@farbrook.org

July – Afternoon Classes

Week 4: July 6-10, Afternoons

Fun and Fitness ◊ Paul Pierre
Grades K-4
Supplies Needed: Just an open space at home to dance and move without running into anyone or anything. Optional: access to YouTube or Spotify for creating playlists of music for independent practicing.

Use household items to stay active through an interactive workout session with a former Director of My Gym. Bring fitness activities right to your living room or backyard. The session includes, warm-up, fitness skill,  and always end with a calming cool down and stretching session. For any questions, please contact ppierre@farbrook.org.

Create Your Own Graphic Novel ◊ Rob Olazagasti
Grades 2-6
Supplies Needed:  Bristol paper, colored pencils, access to a computer and printer.

Students will have the opportunity to become an illustrator in creating an original illustrated story/graphic novel. Students will generate original storylines of their own with original characters, plotlines, and scenes. With guidance and support, students will bring their ideas to life on the storybook page. Students will learn about character and story development, visual composition, incorporating text and dialog, developing mood and message. Students will create a one-of-a-kind manuscript to be shared at the culmination of the course. Please email rolazagasti@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 5: July 13-17, Afternoons

Arts & Crafts Studio ◊ Ke Kim
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  included in a Camp Bag

Let’s craft and make art together! This class will allow children to explore, imagine, and get crafty. Weekly themes will give campers a chance to make something new from various materials. Project themes are inspired by nature, up-cycling, paper, collage, cardboard, and more. Each camper will first watch either a short tutorial or live step-by-step instruction to guide them in creating their own projects. Some crafts include Rainbow Collage, Paper Garden, Paper Bag Animals, Weaving Art, Up-cycle Game, and more.

A Camp Bag will be prepared with supplies that will be needed for the week. Any extra materials that may be required will be listed on a note inside the Camp Bag. These bags will be available for pick up at Far Brook before the start of the week. Please email kkim@farbrook.org with any questions. 

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Fun and Fitness ◊ Paul Pierre
Grades K-4
Supplies Needed: Just an open space at home to dance and move without running into anyone or anything. Optional: access to YouTube or Spotify for creating playlists of music for independent practicing.

Use household items to stay active through an interactive workout session with a former Director of My Gym. Bring fitness activities right to your living room or backyard. The session includes, warm-up, fitness skill,  and always end with a calming cool down and stretching session. For any questions, please contact ppierre@farbrook.org.

Mini Model UN ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 4-8
Supplies Needed: blank notebook, or paper and pens/pencils

Do you think you could make decisions for the world? Do you have great ideas to contribute? Join this class and see what it’s like to represent countries from around the world. Students will learn about what the actual United Nations does as a worldwide organization and learn about real-life issues while fine-tuning their skills in research, critical thinking, and debate. We will be using a United Nations curriculum that is very accessible to all ages. Please email mboewe@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 6: July 20-24, Afternoons

Multiplication Masters Bootcamp ◊ Erica Roark Wuerthner
Grades 3-5
Supplies Needed: blank notebook for math notes (graph paper notebook ideal), Pencil/pen, Online access for math games online, Deck of playing cards (optional), 2 dice (optional)

Making multiplication and division fun! Students will learn their multiplication and division facts with exciting and interesting games and songs. During Zoom class each day, we will play games, learn new skills, and complete fun projects to learn our multiplication and division facts. Great for maintaining math skills during the summer in exciting ways!  For any questions, please contact ewuerthner@farbrook.org

Micro:bit: Code and Design your own Wearable Tech ◊ Deborah Costa
Grades 5-9
Supplies Needed: 
Technology kit (Add’l fee +$35) will be available for pickup at Far Brook prior to the start and includes: micro:bit, Wear:bit, Micro usb cable2 x CR2025 batteries. Must use Chromebook or Computer with usb port (no tablets). Upcyclable materials and miscellaneous crafting supplies

Have you ever wished your clothing could do more than just keep you warm? In this course, you will be introduced to the powerful and inspiring world of the Micro:bit. Using a graphical programming language, you will make your own “smart” accessories that will both entertain and inform. Get ready to create your own digital name tag, step counter, and virtual pet! Please email dcosta@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 7: July 27-31, Afternoons

Arts & Crafts Studio ◊ Ke Kim
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  included in a Camp Bag

Let’s craft and make art together! This class will allow children to explore, imagine, and get crafty. Weekly themes will give campers a chance to make something new from various materials. Project themes are inspired by nature, up-cycling, paper, collage, cardboard, and more. Each camper will first watch either a short tutorial or live step-by-step instruction to guide them in creating their own projects. Some crafts include Rainbow Collage, Paper Garden, Paper Bag Animals, Weaving Art, Up-cycle Game, and more.

A Camp Bag will be prepared with supplies that will be needed for the week. Any extra materials that may be required will be listed on a note inside the Camp Bag. These bags will be available for pick up at Far Brook before the start of the week. Please email kkim@farbrook.org with any questions. 

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Fun and Fitness ◊ Paul Pierre
Grades K-4
Supplies Needed: Just an open space at home to dance and move without running into anyone or anything. Optional: access to YouTube or Spotify for creating playlists of music for independent practicing.

Use household items to stay active through an interactive workout session with a former Director of My Gym. Bring fitness activities right to your living room or backyard. The session includes, warm-up, fitness skill,  and always end with a calming cool down and stretching session. For any questions, please contact ppierre@farbrook.org.

Into the Wilderness ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 3-7
Supplies Needed: 
will be provided in an email prior to the start of class

Learn how to enjoy nature and also be stewards of the environment. This class will teach all the best ways to enjoy hiking, biking, camping and more. We will incorporate the principles and guidelines of Leave No Trace created by the Center of Outdoor Ethics, which can be applied to a wide variety of outdoor activities and can shape how we view everyday living. Additionally we will be learning fun wilderness techniques such as making a sundial, preparing a home-made first aid kit, and even building a lean-to in your backyard or indoors. Please email mboewe@farbrook.org with any questions.

August – Morning Classes

Week 8: August 3-7 - NO CLASSES
Week 9: August 10-14, Mornings

Everybody Dance! ◊ Matthew Westerby
Grades N3-K
Supplies Needed:  Just some open space at home – imagine the space a yoga mat would take up!

A creative and enjoyable moving experience for our young dancers – no experience necessary! Warm-ups with floor stretches, yoga poses and balance work followed by standing isolations and coordination work. We’ll work on choreographed phrases to help build our movement memory and create dance together based on the stimuli we find all around us – poetry, music, art and our favorite stories – and share our work with each other. Questions? Please email mwesterby@farbrook.org.

*Participants may also join us for a virtual play session and Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Get Back to School! ◊ TBD
Grades 1-3
Supplies Needed:  Access to programs such as Freckle, Splash, and Epic may be necessary.

A, B ,Cs and 1, 2, 3s! It is time for Back-to-School. In this open session, families will complete a simple survey using Google Form to fill out what your children would like to review from the previous grade. Each student will receive an individualized lesson plan by the second day and will get some quality office time to work with a teacher in a small group.

Calligraphy and Fun Fonts ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 4-8
Supplies Needed:  Paper of any kind, ruler, markers, pencils, erasers, (calligraphy pens are a plus but not required)

Learn the art of lettering and even invent your own font. We’ll study artists and many lettering samples to create our own beautiful styles of writing. Each day will have a blend of examining established styles and fonts and also experimenting and creating new styles. Learn and practice skills that are great for homemade cards, signs, and more. Please email mboewe@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 10: August 17-21, Mornings

Arts & Crafts Studio ◊ Ke Kim
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  included in a Camp Bag

Let’s craft and make art together! This class will allow children to explore, imagine, and get crafty. Weekly themes will give campers a chance to make something new from various materials. Project themes are inspired by nature, up-cycling, paper, collage, cardboard, and more. Each camper will first watch either a short tutorial or live step-by-step instruction to guide them in creating their own projects. Some crafts include Rainbow Collage, Paper Garden, Paper Bag Animals, Weaving Art, Up-cycle Game, and more.

A Camp Bag will be prepared with supplies that will be needed for the week. Any extra materials that may be required will be listed on a note inside the Camp Bag. These bags will be available for pick up at Far Brook before the start of the week. Please email kkim@farbrook.org with any questions. 

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Introduction to Algebra 1 ◊ Nina Sze
Grade 7
Supplies Needed: Chromebook or computer, printer (optional), paper, pencils, eraser

This is a great way to get ready for the upcoming school year.  We will begin by strengthening your skills with signed number, fraction, and decimal operations.  Then we will apply them to foundation algebraic concepts, such as distribution, combining like terms, simplifying expression, and solving equations.  There may be opportunities to apply these skills to solving algebraic word problems or line graphs. Email nsze@farbrook.org with any questions.

August – Afternoon Classes

Week 8: August 3-7 - NO CLASSES
Week 9: August 10-14, Afternoons

Arts & Crafts Studio ◊ Ke Kim
Grades N4-2
Supplies Needed:  included in a Camp Bag

Let’s craft and make art together! This class will allow children to explore, imagine, and get crafty. Weekly themes will give campers a chance to make something new from various materials. Project themes are inspired by nature, up-cycling, paper, collage, cardboard, and more. Each camper will first watch either a short tutorial or live step-by-step instruction to guide them in creating their own projects. Some crafts include Rainbow Collage, Paper Garden, Paper Bag Animals, Weaving Art, Up-cycle Game, and more.

A Camp Bag will be prepared with supplies that will be needed for the week. Any extra materials that may be required will be listed on a note inside the Camp Bag. These bags will be available for pick up at Far Brook before the start of the week. Please email kkim@farbrook.org with any questions. 

*Participants may also join Kids in the Kitchen-Summer Edition!

Everybody Dance! ◊ Matthew Westerby
Grades N3-3
Supplies Needed: Just some open space at home – imagine the space a yoga mat would take up!

A creative and enjoyable moving experience for our young dancers – no experience necessary! Warm-ups with floor stretches, yoga poses and balance work followed by standing isolations and coordination work. We’ll work on choreographed phrases to help build our movement memory and create dance together based on the stimuli we find all around us – poetry, music, art and our favorite stories – and share our work with each other. Please email mwesterby@farbrook.org with any questions.

Word Up! ◊ Daquan Mickens
Grades 4-8
Supplies Needed:  access to the Internet (Google Classroom & YouTube), a writing journal and a video recording device.

We will look at 5 key elements of performance poetry: figurative language, imagery, voice, diction and rhyme. We will discuss techniques performers use to highlight these elements, and how varying the techniques evokes a different response from the audience. We will also conduct mini-workshops in which we emulate some of those techniques to produce our own pieces, which highlight each of the aforementioned elements. Please email dmickens@farbrook.org with any questions.

Week 10: August 17-21, Afternoons

Brain Training ◊ Mona Boewe
Grades 2-5
Supplies Needed:  a blank notebook, notepad, or paper and pens/pencils.

Stretch your mind and try some logic puzzles, riddles, and more. Explore and expand different areas of thinking. This class will practice math and logic skills that will keep the brain in shape while learning new strategies and perspectives for problem-solving. We will try out a variety of classic puzzles and riddles, and utilize online resources where you can create some of your own. Challenge yourself or your family and friends with some great exercise for the brain! Please email mboewe@farbrook.org with any questions.

Virtual Orchestra! ◊ Milan Milinkovic
Grades 5-8
Supplies Needed: student’s instrument

Inviting all returning Far Brook Orchestra students and newly invited Orchestra students for a week of virtual orchestra! Dust off your instrument after the summer months and discover a new world that combines instrumental performance with technology. Check out our previous project hereFor any questions, please contact mmilinkovic@farbrook.org.

 If the session is very popular, we will divide the orchestra into 2 smaller groups.

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