BGC Westfield Virtual Learning

New Position Open: Maintenance Worker

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 15:26:45 GMT

Job Opening: Maintenance Worker

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield is seeking an experienced Maintenance Worker to join our team and help maintain our 60,000+ square-foot facility.

Position open immediately. Salary will be negotiated. Can work full or part time.

General Duties (Includes but not limited to):

• Perform minor fixes, such as repairing broken locks, damage to walls, etc.

• Install necessary appliances and equipment as needed

• Maintain grounds, including garden and yard upkeep, trimming, edging, mowing lawn, collecting trash, snow-blowing doors and sidewalks, etc.

• Perform necessary cleaning activities such as dusting, mopping, trash removal, etc. (There is a nightly cleaning service for the overall building)

• Maintain equipment paperwork and organize/coordinate tools

• Supervise and assist outside workers

• Maintain all Club vehicles (Oil Changes, etc.)

• Make general repairs for building and program equipment

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older with a current driver’s license and able to pass a background record check

• Must have or be willing to obtain a 7D license or school bus license (Paid for by the Boys & Girls Club)

• Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds

• Must be able to operate maintenance equipment

• Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry knowledge preferred

Contact CEO Bill Parks at 413-562-2301 to apply

Take a video tour of our completed Building Expansion!

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:35:38 GMT

Take a video tour of our completed Building Expansion with Chief Operating Officer Kellie Brown. Also contains important information for our Kidz Klub families!

It's time to register for our Before and After-School Programs!

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:32:25 GMT

We are so excited to welcome our Kidz Klub members back with a brand new, state of the art facility designed to make learning fun!

Our before-school program provides transportation to the schools listed on our Before School page, and includes a healthy breakfast to help your child start the school day with the energy they need to shine. Our after-school child care program helps to extend learning beyond the school day with homework help, outdoor activities, STEAM mentoring, and more! For more information, click the links below.

Register for the 2021 Westfield Half Marathon/10k/5k!

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:28:30 GMT

It's time to get back out there and run/walk the Westfield Half Marathon/10k/5k!

Join us on Saturday, September 11th at 10:30am for A Run to Remember as we commemorate the 20 year anniversary of 9/11/2001.

This event has something for everyone of all athletic abilities, and all proceeds benefit the essential services and programs provided by the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield. Walkers are welcome!

The first 400 registered runners will receive their very own technical shirt, as seen above, so register today by clicking the link below!

Register today for the 2021-22 Dance Season!

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:20:41 GMT

Call 413-562-2301 to register your child today!

We're Hiring!

jmahon@bgcwestfield.org (Jamie Mahon) — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 14:16:36 GMT

Applying for part-time work at the Boys & Girls Club is as simple as sending in your resume! We are hiring for the following positions:

After School Licensed Child Care workers for youth ages 5-12

Assistant Games Room Supervisor

Gymnasium Assistant

Art Studio Assistant

Lifeguards

Technology Assistant for youth ages 9 & Up

Before School assistants (7:30 am - 9:30 am)

Hours would range from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. Before School hours are 7:30am to 9:30am. ALL positions are available Monday through Friday. Applicants must be 18 years of age and able to pass a background records check.

Please send resume to: Kellie Brown, Chief Operating Officer at Kbrown @bgcwestfield.org

Editing a Movie!

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 14:40:08 GMT

Editing a Movie!

Join Tristan as he shows you the basics of editing using VSDC.

Check out Myfuture.net for more activities involving Media Making .

In case you missed it, check out last week's blog about how to Make a Movie !

Let's Try Reading Fitness!

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 14:05:49 GMT

Let's Try Reading Fitness!

Grab a book and join us this week for some fitness fun! As we read our favorite books, we will be up on our feet moving and exercising! Before trying anything at home please check in with a parent or guardian.

Online Art Games!

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 16:56:10 GMT

Fine Art Puzzles

Checkout these fun puzzles from JigZone.com

Click on the puzzle you would like to complete, the website will track your progress (& give you some fun facts about these famous paintings!), see if you can beat the average times & then challenge yourself to complete the puzzle again by changing the cut/number of pieces!

Color Matching Games

For my younger friends, start with Shapes & Colors BINGO from ABCya.com

For something more challenging checkout Color from Method of Action & if you're interested, visit TryColors.com for a color mixing game using HEX codes!

Drawing Games & Machine Learning

Try AutoDraw - a collaboration between machine learning and the artist community. The technology can currently GUESS hundreds of drawings and more will be added over time.

How it works:

start doodling & the suggestion tool will start guessing
draw solo with the draw tool
choose colors with the color picker
add text with the type tool
make shapes with the shape tool
add color with the fill tool
move, resize, and rotate objects with the select tool
download a PNG or share your work from any device!

Next, checkout QuickDra w ! This is a game built with machine learning. You draw, and the neural network tries to guess what you're drawing! It doesnt always work, but the more you play, the more it learns! So far it's been trained on a few hundred concepts and developers hope to add more over time. Checkout the video, below, and see for yourself how machine learning can be used for FUN! For more A.I. experiments, click HERE !

Typography

Typography is the practical art of arranging how the printed word appears on the page. Click HERE to learn more about the history and uses for typography in the modern world.

Then checkout these Typography games:

Shape Type : adjust the handles on the letters to correct the shape of the character then compare it with the original to see your score
Kern Type : space the letters out using a process called "Kerning" and compare your solution to a real typographers for a score.
Font Memory Game : train your eyes to notice the smallest details in different fonts in this matching game.

Education Room Connection 33

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 20:15:56 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello Friends!

I hope that you are able to get outside and enjoy this nice weather this week! Check out this week’s STEM Activity for some inspiration!

Wishing you the best!

Hannah

BGCA Disney Mash-Up

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 17:38:31 GMT

BGCA Disney Mash-Up

Please enjoy this video mash-up featuring talented youth from Boys & Girls Clubs across the country, representing what would have been the opening performance for the 2020 BGCA National Conference in Orlando, Florida.

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY MUSIC*

Make a Movie!

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 13:24:15 GMT

Make a Movie!

Join Tristan to brainstorm, expand on your ideas, write a short script or create a storyboard , then film all the footage you'll need!

Next week, be sure to tune back in to learn about video editing.

Let's do a Scavenger Hunt!

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 15:13:33 GMT

Let's do a Scavenger Hunt!

Get up and get moving with our Fitness Scavenger Hunt! Join Karly and a few of our other staff as they search the Club for items on our WBGC scavenger hunt list.

Let's Make Up-Cycled Bird Feeders!

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 13:23:09 GMT

Let's Make an Up-Cycled Bird Feeder!

INCLUDED IN THIS WEEK'S KIT:

Almond Butter
Bird Seed
String
Paper Plate
DIY Field guide (bonus activity)

THINGS YOU'LL NEED FROM HOME:

an empty cardboard tube
a place outside to hang your bird feeder
(preferably where you can see it from a window!)

Submit photos of your bird feeders & field guides to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to have your work featured later in our blog!

INSTRUCTIONS:

Set up your work space by pouring some of the bird seed onto your paper plate
Spread the almond butter over the outer surface of your cardboard tube. Be sure the cover the outside of the tube to give the seed a surface to stick to.
Roll the tube covered in almond butter across the plate until the tube is covered in seed. If you have extra seed, you can save it to make another bird feeder.
Guide the string through the opening of the tube and tie the ends together in a knot to create a large loop.
Hang your upcycled bird feeder somewhere outside where you will be able to observe it!

BONUS ACTIVITY:

Try to drawing (or photographing) some of the birds & other critters who might visit your upcycled feeder & see if you can identify the different species you see to create your own backyard field guide!
Checkout this cool resource from Mass Audubon to help you identify some of the birds in your own backyard!

Education Room Connection 32

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 20:15:27 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

This week is World’s Oceans Week! Check out some cool activities that you can do online to celebrate!

Also, Miss Ashely found a Finch Nest outside her front door! Check out some cool footage of the newest members of the family!

Enjoy and be safe!

Hannah

21st Century Connection 8

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 20:47:01 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Sara here - I work with the members in the 21st Century Program at the Club after school & we wanted to connect with our members through the Virtual Learning Blog. Check back every week for a new activity, challenge, or experiment!

I hope you all enjoyed reading James and the Giant Peach! I hope to be able to follow up by watching the movie this summer.

For this weeks activity:

Draw an image of what you would picture cloudmen would look like
Feel free to draw them doing something the book states they are doing
For example; the cloudmen painting the giant arc.

Zoom Announcement: This Thursday 6/11 will be our last Zoom. This week I would like you to start reading The Book Wanderers Chapters 1-6.

Happy reading, see you Thursday!

-Sara

Storyboarding!

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 13:17:09 GMT

Let's Try Storyboarding!

Tristan is going to go over what a Storyboard is, why they're used, and how to make one!

Website used:

Storyboard That

Some great examples:

Harry Potter storyboard

Inside Out storyboard

Fun With Balloons!

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 15:53:00 GMT

Fun With Balloons!

Join Karly in the gym today as we practice keeping balloons in the air! Be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything out at home. Let us know how you did by sending videos or pictures of your balloon fun to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Let's Draw the SpaceX Dragon Capsule!

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 17:10:09 GMT

Let's Draw the SpaceX Dragon Capsule!

Did you catch the historic SpaceX launch that took place over the weekend? Checkout this highlight video if you missed it!

For this week's activity, let's try drawing the Dragon Capsule with this awesome tutorial from Art For Kids Hub then you can try your hand at creating a whole scene in Outer Space with this step-by-step PDF from Art Projects for Kids !

Checkout these other resources if you'd like to learn more about SpaceX:

Kiddle & Kids News

Submit photos of your artwork to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to have your work featured later in our blog!

Education Room Connection 31

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 14:51:37 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

This week engineer your own pom-pom catapults, create some cool optical illusions, write a comic, and more!

Enjoy and be safe!

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 50

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 17:33:44 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Africa, home to hot weather and safaris!

Let's try Photo Editing 2!

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:29:01 GMT

Let's Try Photo Editing!

Grab an adult & join our Technology Staff, Tristan, to try the "cut-out" tools on the website pixlr.com to make your own art from multiple pictures.

21st Century Connection 7

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:16:13 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Last week we continued reading James and The Giant Peach Chapters 14-26. Here is a quick recap of last weeks reading:

The centipede chews off the stem of the peach so James and the insects can begin their journey. They start rolling down the hill crashing through buildings, fences, and animals, as well as rolling through fields and towns. The peach destroys everything in its path. Inside the peach, James and the insects got tossed around left and right, it was a very unpleasant journey down the hill for them. They find themselves in a predicament when they look down and they are in the ocean and realize several sharks are attacking the peach. James quick on his feet, comes up with a plan to save him and his friends. He attaches silk to the peach and a seagulls neck using the earthworm as bate. 502 seagulls later the peach is lifted out of the water. The centipede is dancing and singing and accidentally falls off of the peach and James jumps down to his rescue!

Activity Instructions:

Re-read Chapter 16
Use the setting description in chapter 16 to draw two scenes you may have seen if you were riding upon the peach, or watching the peach roll by. Label these scenes with a caption.
My examples:

HAVE FUN & BE CREATIVE!

This week you should be reading chapters 27-39 in James and The Giant Peach!

Dont forget zoom meeting this Thursday @ 11:30 - the new ID and password were sent via email - see you then!

-Sara

Kidz Klub Connection 49

Fri, 29 May 2020 17:16:06 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to historic Israel, the only country that is known as a state!

Let's Play Tic-Tac-Toe!

Fri, 29 May 2020 17:00:41 GMT

Let's Play Tic-Tac-Toe!

This week in the gym, we're playing Tic Tac Toe with a twist! Practice your throwing skills with Karly and Jenalyse as they show us how to play Tic-Tac-Toe Toss! Be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home.

This log is to help you keep track of what you are doing to help improve your body and mind! It focuses on three different aspects: Nutrition, Fitness, and Wellness.

Kidz Klub Connection 48

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:57:50 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Jordan, home of the most generous Arabian people!

Education Room Connection 30

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:44:54 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

My head is spinning from all these fun activities from all around the club! This week, you can create your own spinning toys, just follow along in our STEM video! After learn how to make your own solar oven, reuse and old book, make some tasty summer snacks, and check out cool polar bears!

Enjoy and be safe!

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 47

Wed, 27 May 2020 18:59:39 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Saudi Arabia, home to deserts, camels, and hot weather!

Intermediate Jazz Dance

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:17:41 GMT

Intermediate Jazz Dance

Check out this intermediate jazz dance! Feel free to record yourself doing this routine and send it to: mwray@bgcwestfield.org , to be featured in our Virtual Recital!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY MUSIC*

Kidz Klub Connection 46

Tue, 26 May 2020 17:50:42 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Egypt, home of pyramids and mummies!

21st Century Connection 6

Tue, 26 May 2020 17:50:39 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Last week we started our book club. If you are not a part of the book club i hope you are still enjoying the books and goodie bag! We started off with reading chapters 1-13 of James And The Giant Peach. We got off to a bad start with many of our members unable to access our zoom meeting, but this week we will redeem ourselves! A quick recap of what we have read so far:

James was happy living with his parents when tragedy struck and he had to move in with his two terrible aunts. James was now living an unhappy life in their shack at the top of the hill and had to do everything his aunts told him. He had no friends and worked all day long doing chores while the two aunts laid out on the porch. James meets an old man and the old man hands him a bag of magic green things. James accidentally trips and spills the bag of magic in the dirt and they start making magic beneath the soil. Later on they notice a peach on the tree that never grows peaches and it keeps getting bigger and bigger. It got so unusually big, the two aunts set up a fence around it and charged people to come and see it. Later on that night James finds a whole in the peach and he crawls through the tunnel to find ginormous bugs inside the core of the peach.

Activity instructions:

Favorite Character

Draw a picture of your favorite character
checkout my EXAMPLE

Admission Ticket

create / design you own ticket to see the peach
make sure you include the cost of admission
checkout my EXAMPLE

Advertising Poster

Design a poster to advertise the viewing of the Giant Peach
include the COST, TIME, DATE, and LOCATION.
Use your imagination for the rest!

HAVE FUN & BE CREATIVE!

This week you will read chapters 14-26. The zoom meeting will be Thursday 5/28 at 11:30! See you Thursday, happy reading!

- Sara

Creating a Podcast!

Tue, 26 May 2020 17:50:37 GMT

Creating a Podcast!

Join Tristan as he goes over the basics of creating a podcast using the website Soundtrap !

Kidz Klub Connection 45

Fri, 22 May 2020 20:04:41 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to gorgeous Greece, birthplace of European civilization and the Olympic Games.

Let’s Try Alphabet Fitness!

Fri, 22 May 2020 19:08:36 GMT

Let's try Alphabet Fitness!

Join us this week as we spell out our names using fitness exercises! Make sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying out any exercises at home. Send videos of yourself spelling out your name or other words to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Let's Make a Nature Collage!

Thu, 21 May 2020 19:33:32 GMT

Let's Make a Nature Collage!

This week our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn wanted to try something a little different... Collage with Nature!

Collage is defined as "a piece of art made by sticking various different materials such as photographs and pieces of paper or fabric on to a backing. The art of making collages. A combination or collection of various things." For this project, we're going to use objects and items we can find right in our own yards to create temporary sidewalk collages!

Check out the items Jocelyn gathered from her own yard & the different pictures and patterns she created (below) with the natural found materials. Step outside & find some inspiration in your own yard! What will you create with nature?

Be sure to take an adult outside with you so you don't pick any plants you shouldn't.

Submit photos of your temporary artwork to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to have your work featured later in our blog!

Kidz Klub Connection 44

Thu, 21 May 2020 19:09:30 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Poland, home of famous musicians and good food!

Kidz Klub Connection 43

Wed, 20 May 2020 22:47:17 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to France home of the City of Lights and the Mona Lisa!

Education Room Connection 29

Wed, 20 May 2020 21:38:28 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

I hope that you are enjoying out nice weather! For this week, we have one of my favorite STEM activities: boat building! Some of you might remember doing this with clay in the fall, but check out this video for ideas using aluminum foil! You can also find activities on coding to make music, creating your own lyrics, and yoga and meditation activities.

Enjoy and be safe!

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 42

Tue, 19 May 2020 18:35:45 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Italy, home to historic landmarks, pasta, and fast cars.

Ballet Bun Tutorial!

Tue, 19 May 2020 17:40:44 GMT

Ballet Bun Tutorial...

Learn how to create a Ballet Bun in just a few simple steps.

You will need: Hairbrush/comb, hair tie, and Bobbi pins. You can also use hair pins, gel/hairspray/texturizing spray, hair net, and a fun accessory!

Can't wait to see your Ballet Buns!

Submit pics or your best Ballet Bun to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY MUSIC*

21st Century Connection 5

Mon, 18 May 2020 16:17:46 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

This week you will be given the opportunity to explore on your own, back to the drawing board. You will use your creative minds to play a fun at home game with your friends.

Activity Instructions :

What I want you to do is create your own game at home to play by yourself or with other family members.
This game can be one of a kind or a recreation of an existing game.
It can be anything you want!
You create the game, You create the rules!
For example : I recreated a game like tic-tac-toe fitness style. I used chalk to draw out a medium size tic-tac-toe board on my driveway. I did not have bean bags so I used rolled up socks instead.

My game rules :

Draw a line about 10 feet behind your board
You and another person take turns throwing your “socks”
If your socks land in a square the other person has to do an exercise of your choice. You keep playing until you get…….three in a row!

Be creative and have fun!
If you would like to, post a picture of your game in the comments so maybe others can try it out.

This week we are starting our book club. The first book we will be reading is James and The Giant Peach! Reminder that we will be having a 21st Century Zoom meeting this Thursday 5/21 @11:30 , it is not mandatory !

-Sara

Kidz Klub Connection 41

Mon, 18 May 2020 16:06:33 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Spain, home to medieval castles, dreamy mosques, and futuristic museums.

Make a Game with Notepad!

Mon, 18 May 2020 12:22:05 GMT

Make a Game with Notepad!

Learn how to make a text based game in Notepad the Tristan!

HERE is the code that was use to make the game.

Kidz Klub Connection 40

Fri, 15 May 2020 16:40:23 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Iceland, the second largest island in Europe!

Let’s Try Juggling!

Fri, 15 May 2020 15:25:47 GMT

Let's try Juggling!

Join our Athletic Director Karly, and several other of our awesome staff, as we learn how to juggle! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying out your juggling skills at home. Send videos of yourself juggling to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Let's Make Origami Cranes!

Thu, 14 May 2020 18:54:59 GMT

Let's Make Origami Cranes!

Join our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, and learn how to make a simple origami fortune teller! Click HERE to download the instructions. Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit photos of your crafts to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Kidz Klub Connection 39

Thu, 14 May 2020 18:41:55 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Northern Ireland, home to legends and myths like the leprechauns.

Creative Movement Routine!

Thu, 14 May 2020 15:47:57 GMT

Your chance to be featured in our Virtual Recital...

Check out this Creative Movement dance routine! This dance will also be featured in our Virtual Recital!

Be sure to e-mail a video of you performing this piece to: mwray@bgcwestfield.org so that you can be featured in the recital!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY MUSIC*

Kidz Klub Connection 38

Wed, 13 May 2020 21:59:14 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Wales: home of noteworthy Welsh citizens the likes of author, Roald Dahl.

Education Room Connection 28

Wed, 13 May 2020 21:30:25 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

You are so very much missed at the club. While we may have seen some snow flurries this past weekend, this week’s activities will take us to warmer places to hear about sea turtles! You can also create your own marble races and paper roller coasters, make your own personal poems, and more!

Wishing you all well!

Hannah

Let's Read Music!

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:20:13 GMT

Let's Read Music!

Check out this quick lesson with our piano teacher, Trent. You'll be reading music in no time!

Kidz Klub Connection 37

Tue, 12 May 2020 16:20:08 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Scotland, home of hundreds of majestic castles!

Let's Bounce!

Mon, 11 May 2020 22:42:16 GMT

Let's Bounce!

Grab an adult & join Tristan on Scratch to create your own bouncing ball game!

Send clips of your projects to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in our Virtual Learning Blog!

21st Century Connection 4

Mon, 11 May 2020 22:36:25 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

I miss seeing all your smiling faces, I hope you all are doing well and staying healthy! This week I thought we could change it up. Last week a parent informed me about an App called Seek. Seek allows you to take a picture of anything in nature and it will explain to you what that organism is. For example, you have a plant right outside your front door and you don't know what it is, open the app, snap a pic, and be amazed! This is a great way to learn things about the organisms that surround you everyday. Find time to get outside and learn about the environment that we live in!

Activity Instructions:

With a PARENTS PERMISSION download the app SEEK by iNaturalist
You do not need to make an account to continue but if you would like to you may
I want you to find 5 organisms in your house, outside, somewhere in your neighborhood or wherever you may be, 5 things that you do not know much about.
Snap a picture of that item!
Think outside the box… look for an insect that you have always been curious about, or a plant, bird, tree or flower!
If you like, you can even draw a picture of that organism you find and write what you have learned about it.
On the app you will see a Backyard challenge….if you are feeling up to the challenge try it out!

For those of you that do not have a phone that has access to this app here is what you can do:

Explore:

Can't wait to see what my shining stars learned about the Environment we live in! Reminder: We will be having a 21st Century zoom meeting on Thursday 5/14 @ 11:30! Very Excited to see all of your smiling faces. Hope you have a fun week exploring, stay safe!

-Sara

Kidz Klub Connection 36

Mon, 11 May 2020 22:27:46 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to England, birthplace of Soccer and home to the Monarchs, Big Ben, and the “London” Bridge.

Kidz Klub Connection 35

Fri, 08 May 2020 20:34:55 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to lively Jamaica and country proud of its culture and Reggae music … Jamaica Mon !!

Let’s make a Jump Rope!

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:28:30 GMT

Let's try Animal Yoga!

This week our Athletic Director, Karly, wants you all to join her in making your own jump rope out of plastic shopping bags! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video or picture of you using your own homemade jump rope to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Kidz Klub Connection 34

Thu, 07 May 2020 16:47:17 GMT

For today’s Where in the World?, we’re traveling to Bahamas!

Lets Draw the Alphabet!

Thu, 07 May 2020 16:23:41 GMT

Let's Draw the Alphabet!

This week our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, wanted to try something a little different so let's try DRAWING the alphabet! You can write out your name or a secret message using pictures as symbols.

Did you know that the ancient Egyptians used picture symbols called Hieroglyphics to record their culture before written language as we know it was created! Learn more about Hieroglyphics HERE !

As a BONUS CHALLENGE see if you can come up with your OWN picture alphabet!

Be sure you have adult supervision before trying anything at home & submit pictures of your finished drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post.

Checkout The Activity Mom which inspired this activity for other fun ideas for kids of all ages!

Kidz Klub Connection 33

Wed, 06 May 2020 19:14:02 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to gorgeous Bermuda, the easternmost point of the "Bermuda Triangle" where aircraft and ships have disappeared.

21st Century Connection 3

Wed, 06 May 2020 18:04:08 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

For this week's activity we are going to continue practicing mindfulness and movement as well as learning a few important concepts needed to become a 21st century shining star...

Activity Instructions:

• Open up GoNoodle & Scroll down and click on “ Think About It ” Channel.

Listen to:

Once you have listen to all four, go back to the home page & find the “ FLOW ” channel.

Listen to:

“Let’s Unwind”
“Victorious”

Feel free to explore this website and check out all the other channels! GoNoodle is great for helping a beginner learn to explore the many ways to be mindful and the many effects it has on our body. Just like i said last week, keep practicing how to be a mindful SHINING STAR!

-Sara

Kidz Klub Connection 32

Tue, 05 May 2020 15:57:57 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Mexico, where on May 5, 1862 – Cinco de Mayo - the Mexican army defeated France at the Battle of Puebla!

Bridge Tutorial

Tue, 05 May 2020 15:40:14 GMT

Bridge Tutorial

Join our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, for a series of warm-ups and stretches that will help you achieve a Baby Bridge and/or a Center Bridge! Be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything yourself. Follow The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield Dancers Facebook page for daily dance challenges and much more!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Let's try Photo Editing!

Mon, 04 May 2020 22:05:48 GMT

Let's Try Photo Editing!

Grab an adult & join our Technology Staff, Tristan, to try editing your own photos using website pixlr.com and it's photo editor tools. - Send clips of your projects to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in our Virtual Learning Blog!

Kidz Klub Connection 31

Mon, 04 May 2020 16:52:19 GMT

For today’s Where in the World, we’re traveling to Canada, the birthplace of Hockey!

Education Room Connection: STAR WARS EDITION!

Mon, 04 May 2020 15:59:56 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

May the 4th be with you….Happy Star Wars Day!

Enjoy Star Wars themed wordsearches, make your own space slime, origami Yoda, coloring sheets, meditation, and space exploration.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 30

Fri, 01 May 2020 23:23:24 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to Virginia and neighboring Washington D.C., our nation’s capital!

Let’s try Animal Yoga!

Fri, 01 May 2020 21:54:42 GMT

Let's try Animal Yoga!

This week our Athletic Director, Karly, wants you all to join her in some animal yoga! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video or picture of your own animal yoga poses to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 26

Fri, 01 May 2020 21:37:28 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello there!

Your laughs and positive energy are greatly missed at the club! While we may not be able to meet in person, you can explore some of these fun activities in the comfort of your own home.

If you complete anything and want to share pictures of activities, feel free to email them to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to possibly be featuring in an upcoming blog.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

Lets Make Craft Tube Critters!

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 21:16:47 GMT

Let's Make Craft Tube Critters!

Tune in with our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, and let's get creative & turn some of those empty cardboard rolls into CRAFT TUBE CRITTERS! Search Pinterest for some inspiration or come up with something totally new! Be sure you have adult supervision before trying anything at home & submit pictures of your finished critters to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post.

Kidz Klub Connection 29

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 21:12:23 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to California also known as the Golden State!

Education Room Connection 25

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 20:06:00 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello there!

Your laughs and positive energy are greatly missed at the club! While we may not be able to meet in person, you can explore some of these fun activities in the comfort of your own home.

If you complete anything and want to share pictures of activities, feel free to email them to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to possibly be featuring in an upcoming blog.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 28

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 21:37:46 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to Pennsylvania, home to the Liberty Bell and where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed!

Education Room Connection 24

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 19:54:17 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello there!

Your laughs and positive energy are greatly missed at the club! While we may not be able to meet in person, you can explore some of these fun activities in the comfort of your own home.

If you complete anything and want to share pictures of activities, feel free to email them to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to possibly be featuring in an upcoming blog.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

Let's Make a Paddle Boat!

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 19:39:20 GMT

Let's Make a Paddle Boat!

Create your very own paddle boat with our Education Director, Hannah! For an extra challenge, change up some of the materials to increase the speed and distance of your paddle boat. Enjoy and feel free to share any photos and videos with wbgc.virtual@gmail.com if you would like to be featured in upcoming posts!

Contemporary Combination

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 21:12:10 GMT

Contemporary Combination

Join our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, for a Contemporary Dance Combination! Need a warm-up? Check out this LINK !

Be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything yourself. Follow The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield Dancers Facebook page for daily dance challenges and much more!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Kidz Klub Connection 27

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 20:21:02 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to Michigan, the automotive capitol of the nation!

Education Room Connection 23

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:10:40 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello there!

Your laughs and positive energy are greatly missed at the club! While we may not be able to meet in person, you can explore some of these fun activities in the comfort of your own home.

If you complete anything and want to share pictures of activities, feel free to email them to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to possibly be featuring in an upcoming blog.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 26

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 20:56:00 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to South Carolina home of beautiful Myrtle Beach!

Education Room Connection 22

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 19:48:01 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello there!

Your laughs and positive energy are greatly missed at the club! While we may not be able to meet in person, you can explore some of these fun activities in the comfort of your own home.

If you complete anything and want to share pictures of activities, feel free to email them to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to possibly be featuring in an upcoming blog.

Wishing you all the best,

Hannah

21st Century Connection 2

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 18:56:44 GMT

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

For this week's activity I thought we could practice learning how to be mindful and master the art of mindfulness...

What is mindfulness?

“ Mindfulness is the psychological process of purposely bringing one's attention to experiences occurring in the present moment without judgment, which one develops through the practice of meditation and through other training. ”

In other words, it is being able to recognize what is happening at that very moment either to your body or your surroundings. CLICK HERE for facts on how mindfulness can help students.

Activity Instructions:

● Find a comfortable quiet area in your house and lay down on your back and relax

● Bend your knees and place your feet on the floor ( see picture )

● Feel free to play calming meditation music if you like (I have attached some of my favorites HERE , HERE , & HERE )

● Close your eyes

● Recognize how your feet feel up against the surface you are on

● Recognize what your arms and hands feel like laying by your side

● Is your body cold or warm? Are your toes and fingertips touching something smooth or soft?

● Now with your eyes still closed, really focus in on your breathing taking deep slow breaths.

● Recognize the noises you hear in your surroundings.

● Lay there calmly for about 5-10 minutes with your eyes closed and really try to focus on how your body feels and what's happening in your surroundings.

● Keep your mind in the present/

If you're feeling up to it, try practicing this technique several times this week. Our bodies and surroundings are always changing! For more mindfulness activities check out these great websites below! I have also included a few mindfulness games below that you can play at home.

Meditation & Mindfulness

Mindfulness Games

Remember, being mindful has many positive effects for you and your body, so keep practicing how to be a mindful SHINING STAR!

-Sara

Let's Build a Song!

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:40:54 GMT

Let's Make Pixel Art!

Grab an adult & join our Technology Staff, Tristan, to try your hand at producing your own song using the website SoundTrap - Send clips of your projects to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in our Virtual Learning Blog!

Drawing Challenge 5

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 23:57:22 GMT

Drawing Challenge 5

See if you can capture Bob's latest pose at home using whatever materials you have around the house to draw (or paint!) Bob to the best of your ability.

TIP: Start with a simple line drawing to capture the pose, then try to pay attention to the highlights & shadows.

BONUS CHALLENGE: Bob had to take a trip to the store to restock his pantry - see if you can fill his arms up with grocery bags & whatever else he might be carrying!

Submit photos of your drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com by April 23rd for a chance to be featured in the next Drawing Challenge blog!

Kidz Klub Connection 25

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 23:07:00 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to Connecticut!

Education Room Connection 21

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 21:52:20 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello friends!

Now that the week is winding down, I hope you enjoyed the various resources to celebrate Earth Week. If you participated in any of the activities, feel free to share a photo of your creation with wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to be featured in future blogs!

Today you can color in different ecosystems, practice your math skills while on an adventure in Prodigy, enjoy some online Disney themed games, and unwind your day with live zoo cameras at the San Diego Zoo. Have a wonderful and restful weekend!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let’s make our own Fitness Board Game!

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 21:11:16 GMT

Let's Play Board Game Fitness!

This week our Athletic Director, Karly, wants to challenge you all to create your own Fitness Board Game! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video or picture of your own fitness board game to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 20

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 21:25:24 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello friends!

Happy Earth Week! Throughout this week, you can come find many different online and printable screen-free activities from this blog! Check in for daily updates, and share any photos of your Earth Day celebrations with us at wbgc.virtual@gmail.com !

Today enjoy a wordsearch, funny fill in story, explore our planet and universe with Ready Jet Go, and learn how to make your own paper straws at home!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 24

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 21:25:23 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to New Hampshire … home of the beautiful White Mountains !

Let's Paint a 'Bridge in Spring'!

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 21:25:16 GMT

Let's Paint a "Bridge in Spring!"

Tune in with our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, as she guides us through an acrylic painting of a "Bridge in Spring" - Please note that this tutorial is sped up significantly, we would encourage you to pause or re-watch as you go! Be sure you have adult supervision before trying anything at home & submit pictures of your finished paintings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post. Now let's get our creative space set up, crank up our favorite tunes, & LET'S PAINT!

Materials:

-surface to paint on (paper, canvas, cardboard, etc)

-paint brush (or a brush alternative)

-cup of water & a paper towel (for washing brushes)

-palette (we used a paper plate)

-acrylic paints (red/yellow/blue/black/white)

Kidz Klub Connection 23

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:26:19 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to historical Rhode Island!

Education Room Connection 19

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:00:07 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

HAPPY EARTH DAY! Throughout this week, you can come find many different online and printable screen-free activities from this blog! Check in for daily updates, and share any photos of your Earth Day celebrations with us at wbgc.virtual@gmail.com !

Today print out activities to enjoy a memory game, maze, and scavenger hunt bingo, and coloring sheets! Then explore National Geographic Kids Earth Day activities, quizzes, and games, and explore some up-cycling ideas to complete right in your own home! After join David Attenborough on an incredible interactive journey exploring the Great Barrier Reef. We hope you enjoy celebrating our 50th Earth Day with these activities!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Make Plankton!

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 16:01:11 GMT

Let's Make Plankton!

HAPPY EARTH DAY!! Join our Education Director, Hannah, in celebrating Earth Day with her favorite organisms, plankton! Such little plants and critters are so important in our marine environments, so let's explore them together. Grab a parent, and see what challenges plankton face living in a marine environment, while engineering your very own. Email any photos of your own Plankton Races to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com if you would like to be featured in future posts! Enjoy, and have fun celebrating Earth Day!

Kidz Klub Connection 22

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 19:59:39 GMT

Did you know Vermont is home to the yummy Maple Syrup?

Education Room Connection 18

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 19:36:24 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello friends!

Today have some fun with an Earth Day wordsearch, read a book and play a board game on a salmon’s incredible journey up a river, participate in a trash pick up with family members, and explore extra resources to help our middle school friends study outside of class time!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Musical Theater Choreography 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 19:14:23 GMT

Musical Theater Choreography 2

"Welcome to Duloc" Choreography from "Shrek the Musical, Jr."

Instructor: Miss Mallory

Enjoyed this? be sure to check out our Musical Theater Zoom Class every Monday at 5:00pm! E-mail mwray@bgcwestfield.org for more information!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Let's Animate with Piskel!

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:56:40 GMT

Let's Make Pixel Art!

Join our Technology Staff, Tristan, as he shows us the basics on how to animate in Piskel - try it out yourself, with parental consent, HERE . Need to brush up on Piskel? Checkout Tristan's other tutorials . Share your animations with us at wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 17

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:55:38 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hello friends!

Today have a laugh at some funny Earth Day jokes, exercise your creativity making your very own fish, bake some tasty buffalo cauliflower bites, upcycle old egg cartons to start you garden plants, see eye-catching 3-D models of mako and reef sharks, and virtually explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 21

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 20:05:17 GMT

For today’s Which Way USA we’re traveling to the beautiful, coastal state of Maine!

21st Century Connection 1

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 18:52:40 GMT

Hello 21st Century members & welcome to our very first online connection blog!

Be a star and join me in spreading a little extra kindness...

“ Kindness in words creates confidence.

Kindness in thinking creates profoundness.

Kindness in giving creates love .”

-Lao Tzu

For this week's activity we will be creating kindness rocks. The goal is to use kind words or phrases to help lift someone's spirits (even your own!) during these tough times, and help the spread of kindness by giving someone a little inspiration to get through the day. Think deeply about what you want to say because your words are very meaningful and will go a long way. Just one kind word can brighten someone's entire day!

Activity Instructions:

Find a rock outside, shape of your choice and wash any dirt off with soap and water.
Once the rock is dry, and you have decided on a kind word or phrase, begin painting your rock.
Paint it any color you would like and feel free to add any pictures or designs, embrace your inner creativity.
Don't forget to include your kind word or phrase!
Once the paint has dried, feel free to give the rock to someone, keep it for yourself, place it somewhere around your house, or put it in your garden or mailbox, ect.

Check out the kindness rock examples (above) for some ideas or find some more inspiration on Pinterest ! For those of you that might not have paint or paint brushes at home, try writing a kind note on a piece of paper and hiding it somewhere it will be found or you can spread kindness through your words and actions. You can help with an extra chore or say something kind to a family member, or shout something nice to your mail carrier or a neighbor walking their dog. Remember one kind word goes a long way!

I hope everyone is staying safe, keeping busy and remembering to always be a SHINING STAR

Keep spreading kindness!

-Sara

Drawing Challenge 4

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 19:54:59 GMT

Drawing Challenge 4

See if you can capture Bob's new pose at home using whatever materials you have around the house to draw (or paint!) Bob to the best of your ability.

TIP: Start with a simple line drawing to capture the pose, then try to pay attention to the highlights & shadows.

BONUS CHALLENGE: Try giving Bob some silly cartoon muscles to match his pose this week!

Submit photos of your drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com by April 23rd for a chance to be featured in the next Drawing Challenge blog!

Education Room Connection 17

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 19:37:31 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Your energy, enthusiasm, and laughter are very much missed in the Club, especially the Education Room! If you are a regular participant in Ed Room activities and miss the programming (Club H2- Oh!, Jr. SMART Girls, Media Club, etc.) or if you are want to try something new, check out this blog for different at home activities each day! Missed a day? No problem! Check out the search bar to look up keywords like “Education” or “Hannah”, and previous posts will come right up.

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 20

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 19:21:14 GMT

For today's "Which Way USA" we're travelling to Hawaii!

Let's Play Minute Fitness Games!

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 18:43:49 GMT

Let's try Playing Card Fitness!

This weeks fitness activity from our Athletic Director, Karly, is Minute-to-Win-It fitness games! Join us for some friendly competition and see if you can keep up! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video of your own Minute to Win It challenges or your personal records to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 16

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 22:07:39 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 19

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 22:07:34 GMT

For today's "Which Way USA" we're travelling to Arizona!

Let's Make Origami Flapping Birds!

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 17:20:27 GMT

Let's Make Origami Flapping Birds!

Join our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, and learn how to make a simple origami fortune teller! Click HERE to download the instructions. Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit photos of your crafts to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Kidz Klub Connection 18

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 19:17:28 GMT

For today's "Which Way USA" we're travelling to Texas!

Education Room Connection 15

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 18:20:24 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Explore Weather!

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 16:48:04 GMT

Let's Explore Weather!

Join our Education Director, Hannah, in making some cool weather devices! Bring them out to your backyard to measure wind and even forecast if rain is on its way! Send in pictures or videos of your creations to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Kidz Klub Connection 17

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 23:46:39 GMT

For today's "Which Way USA" we're travelling to Louisiana!

Education Room Connection 14

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 17:41:29 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Preschool Dance Class

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 15:01:10 GMT

Preschool Dance Class

Pre-School Dance Class for ages 3-5

E-mail Mallory at mwray@bgcwestfield.org if you would like to participate in a Zoom Pre-School Dance Class on Friday afternoons at 2:30pm!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Education Room Connection 13

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 21:49:45 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 16

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 21:33:45 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Make Pixel Art!

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:46:15 GMT

Let's Make Pixel Art!

Our Technology Staff, Tristan is going to show us the basics on how to make pixel art using the website piskelapp.com ! Be sure to have adult supervision before you try anything at home. Send pictures of your Pixel Art to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 12

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 20:31:48 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Drawing Challenge 3

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 19:59:58 GMT

Drawing Challenge 3

Bob decided to bust a move this week! See if you can capture his new pose at home using whatever materials you have around the house to draw (or paint!) Bob to the best of your ability.

TIP: Start with a simple line drawing to capture the pose, then try to pay attention to the highlights & shadows.

BONUS CHALLENGE: Try designing a fancy costume to fit this week's pose!

Submit photos of your drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com by April 16th for a chance to be featured in the next Drawing Challenge blog!

Kidz Klub Connection 15

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 19:36:27 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Try Playing Card Fitness!

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 18:51:55 GMT

Let's try Playing Card Fitness!

This week our Athletic Director, Karly, has another activity to get us up and moving. Grab a family member and try out our Playing Card Fitness activity! Please be sure to check in with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video of your own workout to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

A Special Easter message from Miss Kellie!

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 15:34:41 GMT

PLUS a super fun challenge from some BUNNY special...

Our Director of Operations, Miss Kellie, stopped by a familiar place to wish us all a 'Happy Easter!' & had a surprise visit from an EGGxtra special guest... THE EASTER BUNNY!! They stopped by the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield to bring us a GREAT idea for some fun this weekend - a scavenger hunt with 10 different items you can find around the house!

Take a photo of you with all of the items you found and email it to Ashley (she'll forward them to the Easter Bunny) !

How are you spending your weekend? Submit your Easter photos & stories to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another blog post!

Kidz Klub Connection 14

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 19:36:35 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Education Room Connection 12

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 16:57:47 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Make Tissue Flowers!

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 13:47:43 GMT

Let's Make Tissue Flowers!

Join our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, & learn how to make a bouquet of tissue paper flowers! Be sure you have adult supervision before trying anything at home & submit pictures of your finished projects to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in a later post!

Materials:

-tissue paper (check old gift bags, coffee filters work too!)

-scissors

-string OR pipe cleaners

-OPTIONAL empty cardboard tube

TIPS:

After it's been folded, try trimming both ends of your tissue paper (either a rounded half circle, or a triangle point) and see what happens to the 'petals'!

Kidz Klub Connection 13

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 21:12:37 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Education Room Connection 11

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 16:00:56 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Fly!

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 15:16:43 GMT

Let's Fly!

Grab an adult, and let's have some fun! Join our Education Director, Hannah, and make different flying models! From airplanes to hoop gliders, test and compare the models to see which travels the farthest, fastest, and smoothest. Submit videos or pictures of your own models to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com to be featured in an upcoming post. Have a blast!

Education Room Connection 10

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 20:58:17 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 12

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 20:47:32 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Ballet Fitness

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Ballet Fitness

Join our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, as she takes you through a quick "Ballet Fitness" routine you can do at home! Be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything yourself. Follow The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield Dancers Facebook page for daily dance challenges and much more!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Education Room Connection 9

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 21:18:11 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 11

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 21:06:33 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Take a Typing Challenge!

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 20:37:03 GMT

Let's Take a Typing Test!

Our Technology Staff, Tristan, wants to show you how you can create your own typing challenge at home using the websites like ( TypingTest or NitroType ). Challenge your relatives at home to take the challenge & see who can get the best scores! Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home.

Drawing Challenge 2

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 00:22:28 GMT

Drawing Challenge 2

Bob is feeling silly! See if you can capture his new pose at home using whatever materials you have around the house to draw (or paint!) Bob to the best of your ability.

TIP: Start with a simple line drawing to capture the pose, then try to pay attention to the highlights & shadows.

BONUS CHALLENGE: Try drawing a character from one of your favorite shows or movies in the same pose as Bob!

Submit photos of your drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com by April 9th for a chance to be featured in the next Drawing Challenge blog!

Education Room Connection 8

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 18:59:41 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 10

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 18:31:52 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Recreate a Sports Game!

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 16:42:29 GMT

Let's Recreate a Sports Game!

Our Athletic Director, Karly, has another challenge to keep us moving! Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video of your game to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Education Room Connection 7

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 18:46:41 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 9

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 18:33:45 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

More Resources to Stay Active at Home

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 17:14:24 GMT

The Play at Home Playbook: Powered by Playworks

"At Playworks, we believe every child should experience safe and healthy play every day. Playworks’ evidence-based programs have been proven to get kids moving, while teaching them social-emotional skills like cooperation and conflict resolution. Now more than ever, these skills are essential to helping kids across the country combat stress and anxiety and successfully navigate the uncertainty and change associated with the COVID-19 crisis.

The games in this guide can be played anywhere, but we have assembled them for kids who may be playing at home due to school closures. In these settings, the challenge is not just to introduce games kids will love, but also to ensure that children can play in the space safely and in accordance with all CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of coronavirus."

Cosmic Kids Yoga

Healthy screentime for 21st Century kids!

More than a million kids do yoga, mindfulness and relaxation with Jaime on the Cosmic Kids YouTube Channel . Parents and teachers report significant improvements in self-regulation, focus and empathy.

But the videos are BRILLIANT FUN so kids love doing them!

Let's Paint a 'Simple Spring Forest'!

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 16:05:21 GMT

Let's Paint a 'Simple Spring Forest'!

Tune in with our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, as she guides us through an acrylic painting of a "Simple Spring Forest" - Please note that this tutorial is sped up significantly, we would encourage you to pause or re-watch as you go! Be sure you have adult supervision before trying anything at home & submit pictures of your finished paintings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in a later post. Now let's get our creative space set up, crank up our favorite tunes, & LET'S PAINT!

Materials:

-surface to paint on (paper, canvas, cardboard, etc)

-paint brush (or a brush alternative)

-cup of water & a paper towel (for washing brushes)

-palette (we used a paper plate)

-acrylic paints (red/yellow/blue/black/white)

Education Room Connection 6

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 19:52:24 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 8

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:49:16 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Go Skydiving!

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 14:05:08 GMT

Let's Go Skydiving!

Join our Education Director, Hannah, in creating a parachute for your toys at home! (BE SURE TO HAVE ADULT SUPERVISION!) This activity will help demonstrate forces such as gravity and drag, as well as practice some math skills with averaging. At the end, there is a bonus activity for your enjoyment! Submit your photos, videos, & experiment results to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in a later post.

Musical Theater Choreography

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 20:30:18 GMT

Musical Theater Choreography

"Freak Flag" Choreography from "Shrek the Musical, Jr."

Instructor: Miss Mallory

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Kidz Klub Connection 7

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 20:21:46 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Education Room Connection 5

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 20:04:00 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Take the "Let There Be Light" Challenge with Miss Kellie!

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 17:02:36 GMT

Let's Take the "Let There Be Light" Challenge with miss Kellie!

Miss Kellie, our Director of Operations stopped in to say "Hello!" to all of you, at home! She also wants to extend another CHALLENGE our Club members & friends at home to show your thanks by lighting a candle or luminary with us on Wednesday April 1, 2020 at 7pm (with adult supervision of course!) & show our support for all of the essential personnel who are still hard at work making sure our community is healthy, safe, & fed. Submit pictures or videos of your "Let There Be Light" Challenge to wbgc.virtual@bgcwestfield.org for a chance to be featured in another video!

Let's Learn About Scratch!

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 21:12:54 GMT

Let's Learn About Scratch!

Join Tristan, our Technology Staff, as he goes over a few of the basic elements of the FREE online program from MIT - "Scratch." The program allows you to create stories, games & animations to share with others around the world! Please be sure to check with an adult before trying anything at home. Visit https://scratch.mit.edu/ to try it out yourself & submit your Scratch masterpieces to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in a later post!

Kidz Klub Connection 6

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:54:58 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Education Room Connection 4

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:36:31 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 5

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 22:45:27 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Education Room Connection 3

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 21:41:12 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Play WBGC Bingo!

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 20:26:06 GMT

Let's Play WBGC Bingo!

Our Athletic Director, Karly, has a new game to get us up & moving! Click HERE to download the game board. Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit a video of your "WBGC Bingo" Game to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another post!

Drawing Challenge 1

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:48:59 GMT

Drawing Challenge 1

Our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, wants to challenge YOU to draw our friend from the Art Studio, Bob!

You may use whatever materials you have around the house to draw (or paint!) Bob to the best of your ability.

TIP: Start with a simple line drawing to capture the pose, then try to pay attention to the highlights & shadows.

For an added challenge: try drawing yourself in the same pose as Bob!

Submit photos of your drawings to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com by April 2nd for a chance to be featured in the next Drawing Challenge blog!

Zoom Lesson: Ballet Barre

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:46:48 GMT

Zoom Lesson: Ballet Barre

Choreography learned in Zoom Ballet Barre Class: March 24, 2020

Instructor: Miss Mallory

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Zoom Lesson: 99 Red Balloons Pt 1

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:21:26 GMT

Zoom Lesson: 99 Red Balloons Pt 1

Choreography learned in Zoom Contemporary Class: March 25, 2020

Instructor: Miss Mallory

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Kidz Klub Connection 4

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 21:45:10 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Make Origami Fortune Tellers!

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 20:45:37 GMT

Let's Make Origami Fortune Tellers!

Join our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, and learn how to make a simple origami fortune teller! Click HERE to download the instructions.Want to take it one step further? Checkout this link from Pinterest for some ideas to turn your fortune teller into a "Cootie Critter!" Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit photos of your crafts to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another video!

Education Room Connection 2

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 20:36:45 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Kidz Klub Connection 3

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 23:11:21 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

"Let It Be"

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 22:09:09 GMT

"Let It Be"

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield members and staff spreading joy through music, singing "Let It Be". We cannot wait to all be together again at the Club soon!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

Education Room Connection 1

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 15:52:58 GMT

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Hi all!

Stay healthy, safe, and enjoy time with your family!

All the best wishes,

Hannah

Let's Have Some Fun With Chemistry!

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 15:25:27 GMT

Let's Have Some Fun With Chemistry!

Join our Education Director, Hannah, for some fun with chemistry! In this video, Hannah shows us how to 'paint with milk' using surface tension & how to make a 'lava lamp' with materials you can find around the house! Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit pictures or videos of your chemistry fun to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another video!

Kidz Klub Connection 2

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 23:09:45 GMT

A Message From Miss Charisse...

Let's Warm-Up & Stretch!

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 22:27:08 GMT

Let's Warm-Up & Stretch!

Join our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, as she takes you through a quick "Warm-Up & Stretch" routine you can do from home! Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything yourself. Follow The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield Dancers Facebook page for daily dance challenges and much more!

*WE DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO ANY OF THE MUSIC*

ZOOM Dance Class Schedule

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 19:07:38 GMT

Virtual Dance Class Schedule March 24-27

If you would like to be included in daily Zoom classes, please reach out to our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, at mwray@bgcwestfield.org to be added to the list!

*Links and passwords will be sent out daily for Zoom classes.

**We will also try to record each Zoom class so that it can be sent via e-mail.

Please be patient as we navigate teaching virtually.

***Comment below or message Mallory directly if you have a tumbling mat and/or space for a ZOOM Acro/Tumbling class!

Let's Take the "Heart Challenge" with Miss Kellie!

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 17:10:12 GMT

Let's Take the "Heart Challenge" with miss Kellie!

Our Director of Operations, Kellie, wants to say THANK YOU to all of the essential personnel still hard at work to make sure our community is healthy, safe, & fed as we move forward. We also want to extend a challenge our Club members & friends at home to show your thanks by making paper hearts to display in the front windows of your home (with adult supervision of course!). Submit pictures of your "Heart Challenge" to wbgc.virtual@bgcwestfield.org for a chance to be featured in another video!

Kidz Klub Connection 1

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 22:55:55 GMT

Daily messages for our Kidz Klub families from Miss Charisse, silly jokes, recipes, reading suggestions, & much more!

Let's Learn About Stop Motion!

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 21:11:18 GMT

Let's Learn About Stop Motion!

Take a quick look at stop motion with our Technology Staff, Tristan, as he gives us a brief description of stop motion and shows us the basics of using the program "Stop Motion Studio." Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit your own stop motion projects to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in another video!

Preschool Dance Class Fun

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 20:27:20 GMT

Preschool Dance Class Fun!

Tune in with our Cultural Enrichment Director, Mallory, on the WBGC Dancer's Facebook page for a fun pre-k lesson. Follow the Dance Facebook page for daily challenges and more virtual dance lessons! Don't have a facebook account? Don't worry! You can still check out the video, below!

Let's Make Paper Beads!

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 19:32:55 GMT

Let's Make Paper Beads!

Join our Visual Arts Director, Jocelyn, and learn how to make paper beads with materials you can find around the house! Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit photos of your paper bead crafts to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in the next video!

Let's Make an Obstacle Course!

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 01:32:11 GMT

Let's Make an Obstacle Course!

Our Athletic Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, Karly, wants to challenge YOU to create an obstacle course using items you can find around the house! Please be sure to check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit your "At-Home Obstacle Course" to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in the next video!

Let's Make Waves!

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 01:16:39 GMT

Let's Make Waves!

In this lesson, join our Education Director, Hannah in making waves! With just a few at home materials, you can participate in this challenge. Practice increasing and decreasing variables such as amplitude and frequency, and if you’re ready to take on the challenge, test your skills at how to change the speed! Please check with a parent or guardian before trying anything at home. Submit your own wave machines to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com , and share your thoughts!

Stay Active With These at Home Printables

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 00:45:07 GMT

Simple Activities for Children & Adolescents

Check out this list of over 20 fun activities you can try out at home that require no extra supplies or materials!

"My Missing Letter" Fitness Activity

Each letter of the alphabet has been matched up with a simple exercise technique. Finish each word on the bottom of the worksheet by performing the exercise.

"Pattern Fitness 1.0" Fitness Activity

Complete the patterns on the worksheet by performing the exercise that is missing from each row and labeled with a "?".

"Design A Workout" Fitness Activity

Select 3 exercises from each group to build your own fitness workout. After you have chosen your exercises, cut them out and glue or tape them below to create your personalized fitness workout. Note: you may also draw in your own. Send us a photo of your routine to wbgc.virtual@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in our blog!

BGC Westfield Virtual Learning

New Position Open: Maintenance Worker

Take a video tour of our completed Building Expansion!

It's time to register for our Before and After-School Programs!

Register for the 2021 Westfield Half Marathon/10k/5k!

Register today for the 2021-22 Dance Season!

We're Hiring!

Editing a Movie!

Editing a Movie!

Let's Try Reading Fitness!

Let's Try Reading Fitness!

Online Art Games!

Fine Art Puzzles

Color Matching﻿ Games

Drawing Games & Machine Learning

Typography ﻿

Education Room Connection 33

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

BGCA Disney Mash-Up

BGCA Disney Mash-Up

Make a Movie!

Make a Movie!

Let's do a Scavenger Hunt!

Let's do a Scavenger Hunt!

Let's Make Up-Cycled Bird Feeders!

Let's Make an Up-Cycled Bird Feeder!

Education Room Connection 32

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

21st Century Connection 8

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Storyboarding!

Let's Try Storyboarding!

Fun With Balloons!

Fun With Balloons!

Let's Draw the SpaceX Dragon Capsule!

Let's Draw the SpaceX Dragon Capsule!

Education Room Connection 31

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Kidz Klub Connection 50

Let's try Photo Editing 2!

Let's Try Photo Editing!

21st Century Connection 7

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Kidz Klub Connection 49

Let's Play Tic-Tac-Toe!

Let's Play Tic-Tac-Toe!

Kidz Klub Connection 48

Education Room Connection 30

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Kidz Klub Connection 47

Intermediate Jazz Dance

Intermediate Jazz Dance

Kidz Klub Connection 46

21st Century Connection 6

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Creating a Podcast!

Creating a Podcast!

Kidz Klub Connection 45

Let’s Try Alphabet Fitness!

Let's try Alphabet Fitness!

Let's Make a Nature Collage!

Let's Make a Nature Collage!

Kidz Klub Connection 44

Kidz Klub Connection 43

Education Room Connection 29

A Message from our Education Director, Hannah...

Kidz Klub Connection 42

Ballet Bun Tutorial!

Ballet Bun Tutorial...

21st Century Connection 5

Welcome back, SHINING STARS, to our 21st Century Connection!

Kidz Klub Connection 41

Make a Game with Notepad!

Make a Game with Notepad!

Kidz Klub Connection 40

Let’s Try Juggling!

Let's try Juggling!

Let's Make Origami Cranes!

Let's Make Origami Cranes!

Kidz Klub Connection 39

Color Matching Games

Typography