Loading ...Japhet School students learn how to demonstrate peace at summer camp
aphet School students have started their summers painting peace banners and learning about Arab-American culture.
Peace Camp leader and former Japhet teacher Susan Ellithorpe designed the camp many years ago, and this year she was assisted by current Japhet 3rd and 4th grade teacher Cristin Graham. Together they guided children through a myriad peace-building activities.
“Gandhi said, ‘If we are to teach real peace in this world, we shall have to begin with the children.’ These famous words are the core of the program,” said Ellithorpe. “We need to provide children with the social skills for solving conflicts harmoniously, teach them to accept and respect differences and encourage them to cherish nature.”
Eleven children who ranged in age from 4 to 11 years old enjoyed a week together in cooperative play, crafts and nature hikes. Specific activities included felting with real wool, reading peace-related books, making peace banners and dove puppets, painting, having a daily siesta, and joining in a peace circle at the end of each day.
Mid-week, the campers went on a field trip to the Arab-American National Museum in Dearborn to learn about the culture’s history. On the final day, campers went on an hour-long Peace Parade, wishing passers-by a good day.
“We went on a parade to help spread peace,” said Peyton Keffer, a 10-year-old Japhet student and Royal Oak resident. “A peaceful world begins with you — that’s something we all need to understand. Seeing us walk for peace also made people happy.”
Parents interested in Japhet School for their children are invited to call 248-585-9150 or visit www.japhetschool.org. There are still limited openings for fall and financial aid is available. Japhet School is located at 839 S Crooks Road, Clawson.
—Special writer Franklin Dohanyos
Source: www.theoaklandpress.com