March 20, 2003

SMU SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS HELP CHILDREN LEARN IN A FUN HANDS-ON ENVIRONMENT; NEW CLASSES OFFERED THIS SUMMER AT NORTHPARK CENTER

DALLAS -- Children ages 6 through 18 can explore new universes and learn educational skills this summer through summer enrichment courses sponsored by the SMU Division of Education and Lifelong Learning.

Classes focus on technology, computers, multimedia, writing, art, math, science, literature, gaming, the Internet, and study and social skills. They range in price from $100 to $400 and last about a week for 3 to 6 hours a day.

This summer, classes will be offered at the main SMU campus, SMU-in-Legacy in Plano and also at NorthPark Center.

One of the most popular courses, LEGO Technology, teaches students basic concepts of problem solving, engineering, kinetics and critical thinking using LEGO elements to assemble wacky and fun devices that really work. In the construction-zone classrooms, students build everything from rubber-band racers to balloon-powered rocket cars.

This summer NorthPark Center will host 11 classes of "LEGO Technology," offering convenience to busy parents who want to shop while their children learn in a fun, interactive environment. In "LEGOs for Dad and Me," families can take a class together, working as a team to construct a variety of machines.

"I think that the content of the summer classes is appealing to both parents and kids," said Jacque Lytle, program coordinator. "We have great locations with easy access to great facilities and a friendly registration process. We will be keeping kids very busy with both aspects of the camps: having fun and learning while they play."

Other courses include:

• BattleBots – Students team up and create their own BattleBots for final combat against other Bots. With LEGO and Rokenbok technology, students develop the mechanical, programming and strategic skills needed to lead their Bots into battle.
• Decorating My Space – Students discover styles to decorate and accessorize their own space through special projects designed to give children's space their own personal touch.
• Dinosaur Digs –Through hands-on activities, fossil digs and interactive games, students uncover the secrets of dinosaurs, fossils and living in the prehistoric age.
• Math Magic – While learning the tricks to rapid math success, students learn magic tricks and the secrets behind their mysteries. The new math magicians show off their skills and perform a magic show for parents at the final session.
• Elbows Off the Table and Don't Slurp Your Soup! – Students learn the commandments of etiquette and how to act politely with siblings, parents, adults and friends. The class concludes with a dining experience for students to show off their new social skills.
• Academic Enrichment Skills – Courses offered in reading, math, test preparation, study skills and writing prepare students for the school year ahead and give them an upper hand on standardized testing.

Parents can enroll their children by calling 214-768-5433 to receive a brochure and registration information. Classes are limited in size, and spaces are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit www.smu.edu/summer_youth.