February 2020
Lots of Lights
As our four-year-old students left the Light Studio, one exclaimed, “That was epic!” Another one told us, “I wish I could spend a hundred million minutes there!”
This year, as part of our Hanukkah learning and celebrations, we created a new space for children and families to experience — the Light Studio.
Hanukkah is the Festival of Lights, and children are naturally fascinated by light and all its interesting properties. The room was dark and filled with different centers providing different opportunities to engage with light. An overhead projector was set up for children to create shadows and designs on the wall. Transparent blocks on a light table allowed them to make fascinating designs on the ceiling. The unexpected surprises activated the children’s natural wonder and curiosity.
The Light Studio was open during our annual Hanukkah Family Party. Families were given appointed times to visit the studio (much like going to see a big Picasso exhibit at the Met) to assure that the room did not get too crowded.
One parent commented, “This calm space for the children allowed them to take a break from the noise and activity of the party in the social hall.” Children need time for quiet and calm, which became an added benefit of the light studio.
The children were delighted to share this experience with their families, and we loved watching their interactions.
Everyone who visited considered this new area a huge success, and we look forward to expanding it in the future.
