Summer Arts Are Coming Back

After a first year’s success, the Jewish Creative Arts summer program is opening for its second year to provide a creative outlet for children ages 5-11.

Offering drama, dance, crafting, gardening, and art, JCA has a unique approach to their much-needed work in the community. There is no traditional sit-down “shiur”. All of the learning experiences are learned through a hands-on process so the concept is internalized in a personalized way.

Naomi Levin-Morris, director of the summer program who teaches drama and dance during the year as an extra-curricular for kids, understands that environment is crucial. The kids are greeted in the mornings with smiles and hugs from the warm staff, who know the girls on a personal level.

“The work we do is so important, especially within the complex dynamic of girls. The drama exercises specifically aims in helping the kids tap into a place that is only unique to them. And that’s when the magic happens. When you get to that point where you feel the most comfortable with yourself, it gives you room to learn and grow, and most importantly, allows room for others. Suddenly, your limited world becomes limitless and the possibilities become overwhelmingly endless. That is our goal for the summer – to have each child reach that limitless part within themselves so that they can contribute immensely to our world.”

Many of the staff members instruct various art classes throughout the year and encourage the girls to explore and question to find the art form that connects with them. Shevy Levin, who teaches different art groups throughout the year, will be an on-site counselor and instructor this summer.

“I love working with students and seeing their personalities expressed in their art work. It’s really great to see how the girls’ work develops over the summer and how they become more confident with their sense of style. Last summer, there was a very positive, non-competitive environment where I noticed after a student grasped the concept of a specific technique, there was a lot of eagerness to share it and help a friend out who might have been struggling with the project. It encouraged a lot of patience and kindness, which was an unexpected bonus that really impressed me.”

Naomi believes that creating a safe place for the girls where they can feel free to learn about themselves and their peers develops an environment that eliminates bullying and labels.

“Everyone is working towards the same goal, and coming together is the only way to achieve that. I think that is a place we really succeeded last year, and will always need constant upkeep on the part of the staff. The girls quickly caught on that this was a place where everyone was welcome, and there wasn’t a point to limit anyone to a particular group, creating unique bonds and unexpected friendships. We will continue to provide the very best for the girls this summer and we’re so excited to meet the newest members of the Jewish Creative Arts family!”

For more information, contact jewishcreativearts@gmail.com