JCC North News

By Jennifer Wilkinson

Lately I've been doing a lot of reading about the importance of play in early childhood, which is one of the basic philosophies held at the JCC ECS sites. Although it may look as if children are not learning anything of "importance" when they are at play, this couldn't be further from the truth!

According to Dr. Michael K. Meyerhoff, Executive Director of The Epicenter Inc., "being too structured, pushing too hard, and focusing too closely on the content of {academic lessons}...paying too much attention to specific accomplishments often means ignoring what is truly essential."

When children play, they are learning how to learn, as well as problem-solving skills. When children are permitted to follow their natural curiosities through play, "they acquire the fundamental concepts and capacities that allow them to effectively absorb from and adapt to the ever-changing environment around them for the rest of their lives." (Taken from The Power of Play with Dr. Michael K. Meyerhoff.)

The New York Times reports that "play and down time may be as important to a child's academic experience as reading, science and math."

So, the next time you allow your children to play, feel good about yourself! Don't feel like they're wasting time!

Come To Our Art Show and Auction April 26!

With spring comes the annual JCCN Art Show and Auction. Our ECPC is well underway with preparations for this huge event, which is scheduled for Sunday, April 26, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Much assistance is required now for securing items for the raffle and silent auction. If you have anything to donate or know of someone who might be able to contribute something, please let us know. If you are interested in helping, please contact me or Linda at the JCC North office at (614) 764-2414.

To date, we have the following auction items:

• Birthday party from Recreations Outlet
• $250 off a $1,000 purchase at Recreations Outlet
• Dublin Dance
• Two OSU football tickets
• Two Columbus Blue Jackets tickets
• Locker Soccer
• Revolution Dance
• Tastefully Simple party
• Five-page website through Honest Advertising
• Car Travel Basket

In addition to all of these auction items, we will have artwork on display from the entire JCCN student community, and we will have entertainment for the children in the Fellowship Hall! So, make sure to reserve April 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. for a fun-filled family evening!

For More Information

For more information on any JCC North Preschool activities or to register for the 2009-2010 school year, contact Jennifer Wilkinson or Linda Fischer at (614) 764-2414.