download the May 2011 issue (PDF). - Inside Chappaqua

At Future Stars, the plethora of choices runs the gamut from sports
programs to academic enrichment. In addition to traditional sports such
as basketball, baseball, tennis, and volleyball, there are also contemporary
cheerleading and circus arts programs. Campers in the circus arts camp,
learn how to perform on the trapeze and high wire. In magic and illusions,
children attend “a week long magic show” where they learn tricks and how
to work with an audience, according to camp director Jordan Snyder. The
academic enrichment part of Future Stars focuses on the fun of reading
and writing. A typical session includes listening to a Beatles song, analyzing
and writing about it. “This is an opportunity for kids who enjoy reading
and still want a camp environment,” Snyder noted.
Music in Chappaqua’s Chappaqua Rocks
camps embody director Janet Angier’s philosophy.
“I think developing and nurturing music into the lives of youngsters is one of
the most enriching things you can do for a child,” she said. At the day camp--which
is open to both new and accomplished musicians--campers choose a major and a
minor such as guitar and voice. All campers are afforded the opportunity to play
in a band. “They get a real rock and roll experience,” Angier said. Each week culminates
with a concert for the families. At the sleep away camp, participants benefit
from the same music program plus traditional camp features including zip lines,
climbing walls, and excursions. News breaking highlight for this summer: Dave
Bickler, the lead singer of the famous song, “Eye of the Tiger,” will be mentoring at
both camps in addition to performing for the campers.
At Jodi’s Gym, summer camp focuses on gymnastics. Campers
practice their moves on the balance beam, bars, vault, and trampoline.
Interspersed with these activities are those of art, music,
snack, story time, games, and lunch. Owner Jodi Levine described
the foundations of her camp, “Our camp is all about healthy, active
kids. Our curriculum is based on 29 years of experience in gymnastics
and child development.” Children feel completely at home
in this environment which was created with them in mind. Schedules
are flexible. Children may sign up for weeks, days or a combination
of both. Three to five year olds attend all summer long until
August 22. Five to seven year olds may attend during the week
before Labor Day. All campers are entitled to perks at Jodi’s Gym.
They are welcome to attend free additional open play times.
Jeannine Johansen of World Cup is ebullient about the
offerings for this summer. In prep camp, mom and me campers
come together. “Moms love it. It’s a great way to meet your
neighbors and other children the same age,” Johansen said. “It
lets the children get used to the structure of nursery school,”
she added. Campers aged three to six participate in themed
weeks including “take me out to the ballgame” and “beach
party.” New this year are four weeks of clinics for six to eight
year olds. There will be sessions for budding scientists on friction
and weather. In the animation clinic, participants will use
storyboard to create a movie which will be shown during the
World Cup film festival.
32 Inside Chappaqua May 2011