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EverWonder Camps

Day Camps for Kids in Northern Virginia

Time travelers, EverWonder style!!!

Who else but EverWonder could organize a seven day worldwide excursion and bypass airport security via a time machine?  

Oh, if traveling were only this easy!  

Day 1 Archaeologists Time Machines

We began our travels with logistics. In order to travel back in time we needed to explain the job of an archaeologist and the purpose of our time machine. Archaeologists look for artifacts, which are the things that cultures used in their villages or towns and so forth during their existence. Archaeologist do not look for fossils, which are the remains of living things.

day1aSince these are EverWonder campers they accepted their travel assignment with delight and began the task of creating a time machine with all of the bells and whistles, thank you very much! (Big Smile!) Not only did campers create a top of the line time machine, they realized that they would need a water canteens as well as hats to shield them from the weather. Whew!! That all happened on day one.

Day 2 Mesopotamia

Campers learned about the first form of writing known as Cuneiform. We provided campers with an alphabet of symbols and encouraged them to draw their names in clay using Cuneiform writing characters.

day2Traveling in the time machine they discovered that children in this era played with boomerangs. Since televisions, movies, and the internet were not available, looking at the sky and identifying the different constellations was their entertainment. Campers were able to craft their own boomerangs and draw constellations. Finally campers learned that clay in it’s most elementary form was used as the dishes, so they created a clay pots that mirrored the dishes discovered while traveling.

Day 3 Ancient Egypt

day3eWe discussed the things found in Ancient Egypt. Campers identified the location of Egypt on a world map. Then we were on our way. Once we arrived in Ancient Egypt we saw pyramids, mummies, collar necklaces, discovered the Ancient Egyptians form of writing called hieroglyphics, viewed art work on Sarcophagus’ and different death masks.

We began with the pyramids and campers used mini marshmallows and toothpicks to create their pyramid artistic interpretation. Then we used toilet tissue to create mummies. Several of the campers enjoyed using the EverWonder staff as their models (smile). day3kTheir artistic flair was further seen in their collar necklaces, Sarcophagus and death mask colorings. Finally, they used their memory to create LEGO® pyramids.

 

Day 4 Ancient Greece

We discussed the Ancient Greece’s love of storytelling with Greek theater mask and the Parthenon. Campers identified the location of Greece on a world map, entered the location in the time machine and we were on our way.

day4cLucky for us, we arrived at the Parthenon and overheard the story of Icarus. The campers loved visiting the Parthenon. They enjoyed the stories of Icarus, Medusa and the Hoplite Shields. The shields were used by Greek soldiers, who were also know as Hoplites. Their shields were often made of wood. Then the soldiers would paint the shields, which provided a personal touch.

By the time we returned to camp, creative juices were flowing. First, campers created their personal Parthenon out of graham crackers, icing, marshmallows and other edible materials since sweets were plentiful during our time travels. day4o

day4gCampers created Greek theater masks, Medusa headbands using colorful pipe cleaners, personal Hoplite shields and some campers even created their own family crest while others drew pictures.

Day 5 Ancient Rome

We discussed Roman Numerals, gladiators and mosaics before campers identified the location of Rome on a world map,  Once we entered the location in the time machine, we were on our way.

Unfortunately, we miscalculated our 1st landing and ended up in the middle of the Roman Colosseum.  However, our older campers quickly made adjustments just before the lions were released, PHEW!!!

day5dOur next calculation placed us in the marketplace. We were able to see the types of coins used called Aureus, Roman Gladiators as well as some mosaics.

Upon our return we created our own coins with clay. One side had numbers and the other side had a Roman Numerals. Campers used their memory to create the Roman Gladiators wardrobe. Finally they use colorful tiles to create their own mosaics.

Day 6 Ancient India

We discussed many of the cultural aspects India has given to the world, such as spices and board games. Campers identified the location of India on a world map, entered the location in the time machine and we were on our way. day6c

We learned from our navigational mistakes when going to Rome and double checked our calculations. Our landing was correct; we arrived in an Ancient Indian bazaar! The campers were able to identify such spices as cinnamon. They played Chess, Parcheesi, as well as Chutes and Ladders.

While at the bazaar the campers also saw Henna body art. They learned that Henna is a plant. The leaves are the plant are grinned into a powder and then a paste with natural ingredients, which is then applied to the hands or feet. Then we checked out Mandalas.  

day6fOnce we returned to camp, our young artist were eager to experiment with many of the things we witnessed. We made cinnamon cake. While the cake was in the oven we passed the time playing Chess, Parcheesi (for many campers and staff this game reminded us of the Sorry or Trouble games we play today), doing Henna art on hands or arms and doing some Mandala sand art. It was a great day!  (And the cake was delicious…)

Day 7 The Vikings


day7aWe discussed that Vikings were a tribe of people in Northern Europe, which we now know as the modern countries of Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Campers learned that Vikings were great shipbuilders who made small as well as large fishing boats. The long narrow shape of Viking ships was their personal stamp that was used for every ship made. The Vikings were also known for their hats.

Needless to say that by day 7the campers were old pros at calculating our navigational destinations. Campers identified the locations of Sweden, Norway and Denmark on a world map, entered a general location in the time machine and we were on our way.

We arrived on a dock and saw many of the ships we talked about. Additionally, several of the campers marveled at the Viking hats. Since this was a shorter day, we left early and zapped back to Arlington just in time for lunch.  PIZZA AND ICE CREAM…YEAH!!!

After lunch campers made Viking ships and hats. Since it was also New Years Eve, campers made some party hats.

WOW, our seven day adventure was educational, entertaining and yummy!   It was a blast and we were happy when several parents asked about our daily destinations.

Join EverWonder on Monday, January 18th for iLoveScience-Ooey Gooey at the Lyon Village Community House.

 

January 15, 2016 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

Everything was Awesome at Brickmania!

Decisions, decisions…

“Everything is Awesome” was the song of the day as Everwonder campers used their imaginativeness and their creativity to build LEGO® masterpieces.  It is clear that EverWonder Campers are Master Builders and are capable of creating anything they dream up with nary an instructional manual to be found.

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Happy campers!

Master Builders

Master Builders

After lunch, campers were encouraged to use teamwork to free build with LEGO®.  Our vendor, The Brick Dude, helped make their creations a reality by sending thousands of interesting pieces of LEGO® to camp.  He is one of the largest buyers and sellers on the East Coast and because of that he has an incredible variety of LEGO® to rent.  We are thankful to Heather Glick a good friend of Pam’s,  for the connection.

All of us from EverWonder hope that everyone had a great Turkey Day with family and friends.  We can’t wait to see you at Time Travelers this month!

 

November 30, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

Meet Cheryl Butler

Cheryl and her husband Greg

Cheryl and her husband Greg

Last fall we met the awesome Cheryl Butler.  She’s the sister-in-law of my friend and we are so glad Dee helped us connect.  Pam interviewed Cheryl and I remember her calling me before she even got back into her car as she was so excited at the possibility of Cheryl working with EverWonder.

Cheryl hails from the Bronx and now lives in Washington, DC with her husband, Greg.  She is the school based sub at Drew Model School (how lucky are they!) and works with EverWonder during school holidays and throughout the summer.

Read on to learn more about Cheryl…

When did you know you wanted to work with children?

I knew at an early age.  When working with children, I’m able to see the world through their eyes and I’m reminded of the simple pleasures in life.

What is your favorite amusement park?

Ultra Zone Laser Tag

What superpower would you like to have?

I would love the ability to download any information within seconds, a la The Matrix.

Island_Dreamer_cu

A picture Cheryl took while on vacation in the Caribbean. Island Dreamin’ is right!

If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?

Mango Sorbet (it’s not ice cream, but close) because I love the Caribbean and it reminds me of sunny days at the beach.

What is (are) your favorite color(s)?

Purple and Orange

What is your favorite food?

A fish dish called Escovitch, it’s fish that is fried and marinated in a spicy vinegar.

What is your favorite quote?

Success is a Journey not a Destination

 

What is the last book you read?

Counterfeit Gods

You should also know that she has a great sense of humor and a terrific laugh.  She’s wise, kind, gracious and truly lovely.  We are so grateful to have her as part of our team.

Until next time-

Moley

November 30, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

Minions Madness Recap!

Bello! (Psst…parents, that’s how you say hello in the Minions language) November 12th was  Minions Madness at EverWonder!

miniongoggles

Some of our youngest Minions!

We began the day with campers creating the signature accessory of the Minions- goggles!   After that, we moved on to a Minion obstacle course where our little Minions had to navigate a crafty course designed to challenge their Minion minds.

Me want banana!

Me want banana!

eyeonminion

Pin the eye on the Minion!

Next, we moved into a series of games that challenged campers to add eyes to a Minion (think pin the tail on the donkey), bowling and throwing bananas through the mouth of another Minion.  Finally, our campers participated in a Minion dance and practiced the Minion’s language.  When we were done with all of our morning activities our campers were hungry which led to chants of, “Me Want Banana!” (which means I’m hungry!)  I’m happy we had lunch ready to go!

The big screen and popcorn

The big screen and popcorn

In the afternoon, campers had the choice to make Minion slime, an edible Minion out of Twinkies, a cardboard Minion or to enjoy Despicable Me on a rented giant, blow up movie screen complete with popcorn of course!!! 20151111_142116

It was a great day and EverWonder was truly in a Minion Madness mood!

We hope you’ll join us for Brickmania!, Wednesday, November 25 @ Lyon Village Community House!

November 16, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

Star Wars Camp

star_warsThe force was with EverWonder campers as we visited a galaxy far, far, far away. Several campers wore the costumes of their favorite characters (check out the Darth Vader Sneakers!)  while others wore Star Wars t-shirts with pride.

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During  Morning  Meeting, Campers taught EverWonder staff about the history of Star Wars. We heard some great facts and when we were wrong, Campers corrected us quickly. It was a hoot!!

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Campers were entertained with Star Wars books, stories and special Star Wars Lego throughout the day. They also made space ships, Yoda ears and or Princess Leia hair and Death Stars.  However, the main event focused on campers’ developing their personal Light Saber in EverWonder Style, of course.

This was one of our best camps and we were happy to help Campers prepare for Star Wars: Episode V The Force Awakens.

2015-11-03 10.11.25Parents, we look forward to seeing your Campers at Minions Madness on Wednesday, November 11th. Please visit our website for more details!

November 10, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

Meet Brittney Clark

brittneyAfter a (WAY) too long hiatus, we’re bringing back the EverWonder staff interviews to our blog!  Today you’ll meet Brittney Clark.  Brittney has also been with EverWonder since almost the beginning and Pam and I don’t know what we would do without her.   Brittney helps direct our camps (she’s the one with the kind smile greeting everyone at sign in and sign out), she teaches, she helps with staffing, she helps with ideas for camps, she keeps our storage space organized and so much more.   I think it’s also important to note that Brittney recently earned her college degree.  She put herself through school and worked really, really hard to get to where she is today.  I told you she’s amazing!

Brittney sat down for an interview with Cheryl Butler, another awesome EverWonder staff member who you’ll meet on our blog in the next couple of weeks, recently and we’d like to share what they talked about.

Cheryl:  How did you learn about EverWonder?

Brittney:  I learned about Everwonder in 2011, while working for Arlington Public Schools.  EverWonder was hosting a camp and looking for teachers.  I decided to give it try and have been working with them ever since.

brittneyfamily

Cheryl:  When did you know you wanted to work with children?

Brittney:  I am the oldest of nine children. In addition, I have a step-brother and step-sister, so growing up I had to help care for my younger siblings.  I guess I just naturally fell into it.

Cheryl:  What is your favorite amusement park?

Brittney:  It’s Kings Dominion. I LOVE roller coasters!

Cheryl:  What superpower would you like to have?

Brittney:  I would want the ability to read minds. I often
times find myself trying to ‘figure people out”.

Cheryl:   If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be?

Brittney:  I would be Rocky Road! The combination of chocolate ice cream, nuts and marshmallows reflects my adventurous nature.

Cheryl:  What is (are) your favorite color(s)?

Brittney:  Pink and Purple

Cheryl:  What is your favorite food?

Brittney:  I love pasta! Spaghetti and meatballs are my favorite.
I also love sweets.

Cheryl:  What is your favorite quote?

Brittney:

Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do!

-John Wooden

Life is 10% of what happens and 90% of how you react to it! – –

-Charles Swindoll

King

Cheryl:  Tell us about your family.

Brittney:  Well you know about my siblings. The newest addition to my family is King, a naughty Yorkshire Terrier but he’s family and I love him!

Cheryl:  What is the last book your read?
Brittney:  The Alchemist


 

October 22, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

EverWonder what a typical day of camp is like?

Our day camps are packed full of fun.  There’s something for everyone and so many activities to choose from.  We are big believers in outdoor play, choice time and movement.

Each camp begins with a morning meeting where we set the tone for the day.  Our morning meeting begins with a greeting.   The campers then  brainstorm and set the rules for the day/week.  These rules are simple, yet comprehensive and there are never more than three.  The campers are then introduced to the theme for the day/week using children’s literature.  We talk about what we see, what we think and what we wonder.  Our morning meetings motivate our campers to feel significant and they also support their social and emotional growth.

We then go into rotations.  The campers are split into three groups by age.  Rotations include recess, PE/movement and art.  The PE/movement and art rotations are based on our theme for the day/week.

**There are days when we have special assemblies.  These usually take place between 10:00 and noon and we adjust our schedule accordingly.**

Rotations are followed by lunch and free time/recess.  Campers have the choice to stay inside after lunch to play with manipulatives (Magna Tiles, building straws, marble runs, blocks, Playstix, Lego, Playmobil, animal figurines, etc.),  read books, play board games or to go back outside.  We bring bags full of all kinds of balls so campers can play basketball, soccer, touch football, kickball or games they might make up.

Lunch/recess is followed by theme based centers.  We have 4-5 centers for the campers to choose from.  Centers can be art projects, games, science experiments, building activities and more.  It all depends on the theme.  For the last half hour of centers we give children the choice to go back outside to play.

Our day ends with a closing meeting.  We recap the day and say our goodbyes.  This creates a peaceful end to our camp day.

September 29, 2015 Moley Evans Filed Under: Uncategorized

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