A few weeks ago, we had the opportunity to host a wonderful group of kids from the “It Takes A Village To Educate a Child” summer camp program. Program director, Sonia Marshall-Brown started this innovative program to support childhood creativity and healthy development, particularly for children with special needs. It is to her belief that the best way to provide children with the opportunity for enrichment is through experience. The program uses a technique called “disguised learning.” This is when an instructor introduces learning objectives through non-traditional tools, such as games, to encourage students to have fun and learn. This helps boost the students enhance their social skills, mold their leadership qualities and build their self-esteem. We were very honored to find out that she considered a tour of the studio to be and enriching experience for her kids.
Sonia arrived on our doorstep with about 20 students in tow, eager to start their creative journey with Fazzino and his crew. We first gave them a studio studio tour, answered any questions they had, then put them to work! Each child was given a kit that included an original Fazzino print, cut out pieces, glue and other tools to create very own 3D Fazzino print. The amazing thing was just how focused the kids suddenly became. Watching them work was an absolute joy, they even developed their own ways of making the art. Charles Fazzino joined the group for a little while, taking questions from the kids and giving them tips and pointers on technique. At the end of the day each child left with his or her own work to have as a keepsake. We hope this is an experience that they will remember for a long time.
Major kudos to Sonia Marshall-Brown for nurturing the future generation of children and supplementing what’s happening in schools today with a powerful and unique educational program. We need more Sonia Marshall-Brown’s in this world! Thank you!
