The month of May was themed “Living and Non-Living” at Watson Avenue Early Childhood Center of Birch Family Services in Parkchester. Two separate classes of preschoolers found themselves utilizing JHP provided cameras for four weeks with the help of volunteer photographers Elena Bernstein and Susan Falzone.
The co-teachers instructed on basic, graspable topics like: how to hold the camera properly, what is a shutter button, how to fill the frame and how to stand still to avoid blurry photos. Both classes had an integrated student population with some students existing on the autism spectrum and of course both classes maneuvered with mountains of energy despite the small bodies.
The JHP team and the staff at Watson are very pleased with the outcome of the program. The students proved their ability to retain information and follow instruction with the goal of producing enjoyable photographs and understanding the difference between living and non-living (a necessary skill in society). Over the next week, each class is culminating their school year with a moving up ceremony that includes a student art gallery of their photos from the program—a very special addition to their tradition.
Today, parents were made aware of their child’s artistry and invited to enjoy the exhibit. JHP received gratitude for exposing their children to more ways of finding identity and creative expression. And we are proud to say, that with another successful program, we have enhanced some very special lives.
