July marks the beginning of children’s favorite time: summer vacation. It also marks the beginning of the annual Beiyaowan summer camp. July 6th was the first day of camp and 10 volunteers from several different Shanghai International schools got to Beiyaowan early to prepare for the camp.
The camp officially started at 9am. The teachers began the camp by explaining the rules to all of the campers. The campers ranged from young children to teenagers. The campers had three classes to choose from: English class, computer class, and outdoor activities. The campers chose classes based on their individual preferences.
The English teachers used a variety of different methods to teach the children English. They used dancing, games, and different language scenarios to excite the children and engage them in learning English. It was very exciting and the children thought it was a lot more interesting than their ordinary English class.
The Beiyaowan children rarely have access to computers, so the computer class was very popular. The volunteers did a great job patiently teaching the children some basics in computer skills. The volunteers taught them typing, painting, Photoshop, and how to make a power point. The children learned they can have a lot of fun while learning how to use a computer. A special thank you to Concordia International School Shanghai for the computers and computer programming materials used in this great course.
Outdoor activities is always the most fun class for the children. Under the guidance of the volunteers the children played basketball, dribbled over obstacles, had four way relay races, and played many other games. The children also came up with some unique games of their own. No matter their size, all of the children had a good time.
July 17th was the last day of the camp. The teachers held a small ceremony and the teachers gave the children a small certificate for participating in the camp. The teachers and volunteers also gave the children small gifts. The children gave the volunteers thank you letters for all of their hard work.
The 2015 Beiyaowan summer camps were a great success. Thank you to teachers Lin Yuping and Rita for all of their hard work and thank you to the volunteers from several Shanghai international schools for their support. We hope to see you all next year!