FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Spaces are still available for the five September EDGE! classes, said Beverly Metcalfe, the program's director.
And with four new classes, Metcalfe said the offerings appeal to children of all ages.
"It's not your typical thing they can get from (anywhere else)," Metcalfe said of the September EDGE! curriculum. "You can (take) gymnastics anywhere," she said, "but where can you go to get a geocaching or animation (class)'"
Geocaching, a type of treasure hunting with a GPS, is one of four new classes offered through the EDGE! program this month. The EDGE!, which stands for Experience, Develop, Grow, and Excel, is an after school and summer program for children, 6 to 18, offered within Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation partner facilities.
Metcalfe said the program also has worked closely with parents who home-school their children in creating programs that fit into their curriculum.
In addition to the geocaching class, the EDGE! will offer a girls-only craft class, an art class, microwave cooking class and a pirate program.
Dorothy Salley, program associate, said EDGE! staff looks for creative and unique ways to teach and entertain the children.
We want to "help them learn to use their brains creatively," she said. The classes are also about helping children develop lifelong skills, she said.
A prime example, said Salley, is the Microwave Magic class, in which children will learn to cook their own snacks using a microwave. Put away the standby chicken nuggets; recipes include black bean nachos, quesadillas and spaghetti and meatballs.
Metcalfe said the program is also a way for parents to make sure their children are in a safe environment after school.
"How are your kids spending their time after school'" Metcalfe asked. "Here, they're safe."
EDGE! programs are free for children, 11 to 18. The fee for 6 to 10 year olds is $5 per hour. Children may attend for an entire month or selected weeks during the month. Call 751-3053 to sign up for EDGE! programs. For a complete list of fall EDGE! classes visit the website at http://fortjacksonmwr. com/cyss/edge/ and click on EDGE! 2010 Calendar.
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