Act, play chess, be creative: West Milford offers winter enrichment programs for children

West Milford — The West Milford Community Services and Recreation Department is sponsoring several programs throughout the winter for kids of all ages. Whether your child’s passion is ceramics or chess, drama or music, there is something for everyone. Pre-registration is required. Non-residents are welcome; just add $10 to the registration fee. Go to the Community Services and Recreation Department at Hillcrest Community Center to register, or go online at www.westmilford.org and follow the prompts for forms and documents. Call the Community Services and Recreation Department at 973-728-2860 for additional information. Give the violin a whirl Learning the violin will help to develop a child’s intellect, memory, reaction and coordination. In beginning violin the student will learn the proper violin position, how to use a bow, the violin strings, and basic fingerings. The course will also cover how to read music notes. At the end of the course the student should be able to pluck or bow a few simple songs, as well as have a greater appreciation of the beauty of the violin. The instructor has played violin for more than 25 years, has taught private lessons and has performed as a first violinist. Classes are being offered in an eight week session, on Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 20 and continuing through March 10. The program is designed for children in grades 1-6. Two different classes are being offered. Level 1 students will meet from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. and classes for Level 2 students will be from 5:15 to 6 p.m. The cost is $120 per student. Limited free violin rentals are available from the instructor for the course. Others may be rented or purchased at local music stores. The instructor will be available prior to the class to determine the violin size required for each student. Let your inner actor shine Let your star shine! This acting program is for children ages 8 through 12 this winter. It is being directed by Erika Crocco, who has extensive experience in children’s drama and theater. The program is designed to help the participant grow as a performer as well as an individual. It will introduce participants to the theater by teaching them through storytelling and games how to develop a character for performing. It will help the child learn the basics of the theater, to develop a character, make the character grow, and even touch upon basic projection exercises which will help the child in all areas of life. The program is eight weeks in length and is being offered on Mondays, beginning Jan. 25 and continuing through March 22 (there is no class on Feb. 15). The class will meet from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and the cost is $110 per child. Yoga can help kids in so many ways Children who practice yoga experience numerous benefits: they increase their learning capacity, mental alertness, gain better coordination and have improved self-discipline. This yoga program is designed for children between the ages of 5 and 8. The class will present yoga in a mindful and active way. It will be rhythmic, full of imagery, games, songs and poses that will promote self-discipline, and exercise the body. Yoga redirects their energy to help them learn to calm their minds and their bodies. The classes will run each Wednesday, from Jan. 27 through Feb. 17 from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. The cost is $50. Please bring an exercise mat or beach towel. Check mate Attention students in grade three through eight: West Milford Community Services and Recreation is sponsoring a chess program this winter. Chess can benefit children in many ways. In addition to being fun and challenging, it also helps children to develop patience. Studies have shown that the game of chess develops critical thinking and problem solving skills, and helps with memory retention as well. In fact, the slogan of the US Chess Federation’s scholastic program is: “Chess Makes Kids Smart!” The six-week program is being offered on Tuesdays, from Jan. 19 through March 2 (no class February 16) at Hillcrest Community Center. Beginner level students will meet from 4 to 5 p.m. and intermediate level students will meet from 5 to 6 p.m. The cost is $50 per student. Players may move from one group to the other as they progress. Accommodations will be made for slightly younger or older players. Ceramic classes for children Have fun and be creative with ceramics. These after-school ceramics classes are for children in grades 1-6. There is a choice of two days each month. Enrollment is on a first-come, first served basis. Classes are being offered on the following days: Jan. 20 and/or 27, Feb. 17 and/or 24, and March 17 and/or 24. The classes are held in Hillcrest Community Center from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. and the cost is $15 per child per class, which includes materials. Exploring fiber arts Learn how to felt, knit and create whimsical jewelry and toys in a rainbow of colors using “fairy tale” wool, beads, fabric and Kool Aid. This class is for kids ages 7 to 10, and is offered on Tuesday nights for five weeks from Jan. 19 through Feb. 23. The classes are held in Hillcrest Community Center from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and the cost is $45 per child which includes materials. Get into character Let your little one’s creativity soar through drama. This drama class for preschoolers and kindergartners will explore real and imaginary worlds and the people who inhabit them. Children use their voices, facial expressions and movements to create different characters. Each week children will create a costume piece, prop or scenery element appropriate for that week’s theme. Parents will be invited at the conclusion of each class for a short presentation. The program will be held in the Hillcrest Community Center on Fridays, from Jan. 22 through Feb. 26 from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. The classes are designed for children 3 1/2 to 5 years of age, including those in kindergarten. Enrollment is limited.