Ninja Training Camp
| Posted By Julie Valora, Communications Coordinator/Outreach Assistant, Centre County Library and Historical ., Tuesday, November 3, 2020 |
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Contact Information: 8143551516 jvalora@centrecountylibrary.org Library Type Public Description: Ninja Training Day – Centre County Library, Bellefonte Branch Ninjas have long been a standard in unconventional warfare so what better way to apply unconventional learning practices than to hold a Ninja Training Day. Children are often fascinated by ninjas, which made it very easy to fill all available spots for this program. This two-hour event was packed full of learning and activities. The goal was to provide focus in balance, self-awareness, patience, concentration, accuracy, determination, endurance, relaxation/breathing, just to name a few. The program was initially scheduled to be 1.5 hours long, but the kids were having so much fun, we let them continue to interact with the stations. In addition, several younger siblings (who had been watching and hoping for a turn) were invited to participate in the last half hour. Several stations were set up focusing on different skills/actions. There was an obstacle course with several steps. Children had to focus on balance, following directions, patience, and problem solving to make it through to the next activity. There was a station where children needed to hit targets with a throwing star, without hitting a balloon. Another station required the children to keep a balloon in the air and in a specified area for a timed period. Children made ninja headbands and nunchucks. They were encouraged to make their own insignia or symbol to represent their ninja personality or skill. This program could be easily replicated. Most of the materials used were already on hand at the library or were donated or purchased quite cheaply. Stations could be modified to fit the goals of learning for that particular day. Marketing was completely free. The program was posted on our calendar, website, and in community calendars. We created Facebook posts and a Facebook event. We had a limited amount of spots available due to space and staff time, so bigger libraries could have bigger classes or more sessions in one day. It could also extend in to a community partnership. Martial arts instructors could teach some basic skills. Yoga instructors could teach meditation. The program could grow to however it would best fit the needs of the library and community involved. PA Literacies met included: Health Literacy, Basic Literacy, Civil and Social Literacy |