After School Enrichment From The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts

In the Fall of 2017, The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts’ (METC) the Education Department was excited to create a new offering as part of the After School Enrichment programs at both Milton Avenue and Washington Avenue Chatham schools. Twenty students at the two schools took part in “Museum Curators,” which taught children about museums, collections, collecting and exhibit design. The students were able to create a variety of projects throughout the session, including stained glass, folio books and pinwheels. They also designed backdrops for their own personal collections, using techniques ranging from stenciling and rubbing, to collage and coloring. On the final day, each student displayed their creations and personal collections in individual exhibits. The delighted families attended this special event where they viewed the children’s collections and exhibits.
For 2018, METC plans to continue its relationship with the School District of the Chathams with new programming for the Spring After School Enrichment session. “Hands-on History: Problem Solving in Early America” will provide an opportunity to learn what it was like to be part of an Early American family. Through a series of hands-on activities and projects, children will be able to explore the ways in which Early Americans adapted and solved problems without the technology we take for granted today. Some of these activities will include butter making, weaving, wool felting, toy making and more! They will also have an opportunity to handle a number of different Early American tools from the museum’s collection and will learn that some of the concepts we use today, such as recycling, existed in the past as well.