Oct. 25, 2018, Sponsored Story
The Q StudioLab, an early childhood education center that opened its doors at 41-20 Queens Blvd. last year, is offering new programs that provide unique, experiential learning for children aged 1 to 16 years.
Lauren Travers, a Sunnyside resident and founder of the Q StudioLab, said she opened the 16,000 square foot center in response to the growing need and demand for teaching space. Travers has been involved in childhood education in Sunnyside for years, and was the founder of Amazing Magic Beans Preschool on 46th Street in 2008.
Travers is now in the midst of rolling out a number of programs targeting most age groups, which include preschool programs to dance lessons.
The New Preschool & Tiny Explorers Program
The pre-school program geared for 2-4 year olds is based on the Reggio Emilia method, a teaching philosophy that incorporates strong parent involvement and uses a hands-on and “messy” approach to fulfilling a curiosity/exploration-based curriculum.
“We believe this type of schooling is the best way to develop a creative, compassionate learning environment that supports children to be courageous explorers and leaders,” said Travers.
Limited space is still available for children 2-3 years of age for the 2018-2019 school year, which includes part-day, full day and part-week options.
Those interested in setting up a tour of the new pre-school program or who would like to request additional information, are asked to e-mail: preschool@theqstudiolab.com or call 718-786-9100.
For parents or caregivers who would like to accompany their children that are ages 3 or under, a “Tiny Explorers” schedule of programming is available which includes “Magical Messes” on Mondays from 3 – 4:30 p.m., and “Touching and Texture Exploration” on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Registration for these two classes can be found on their website.
Elementary Program
The growing elementary program that currently serves children in grades K-4, was first developed as grassroots, homeschool collaboration between neighborhood parents. All of the children currently enrolled in this program are homeschooled but attend The Q StudioLab for collaborative classes.
Travers says that she is working towards expanding the program to ultimately turn it into a private school for children in grades K-12. “When children explore their world through the arts, through regular field trips in our community and in greater New York, or through moving their minds, hearts and bodies every day and working in small class sizes of 4-14 children, they know they are seen, heard and listened to.” Travers said. “They explore our roots as a community in Queens and take part in the proud heritage of the most diverse place in the world.”
She noted that while children in this program will certainly learn how to read, write and do arithmetic, they will also learn how to “observe, question, collaborate and ponder.”
The elementary program also offers language instruction in Spanish and Mandarin, as well as other activities taught by professional artists and career scientists.
Those interested in learning more about the elementary program can e-mail: director@qstudiolab.com or call 718-786-9100.
Afterschool Activities
A creative afterschool program, which Travers designed similarly to their recently completed “Open Studio” summer camp program is also being offered to children in grades K-6. For a minimum of 2 days per week, per month, children can choose from different “studios” such as cooking, art, science, robotics, sculpting, music, movement and more. Each month, parents can register their children to a set of studios and then decide if they want to register for different studios or change their schedule the following month to have their kids try new mediums or experiences.
There is also a homework studio where children can get support from an afterschool counselor to complete homework assignments. Pick up from nearby schools and bus stops are also available. To learn more about afterschool program, e-mail: afterschool@theqstudiolab.com or call 718-786-9100. Readers can also register for activities directly on their website.
Dance Instruction
A resident dance company, “Dance Matters” is co-located within the Q StudioLab center, and offers dance classes and programs with a focus on the technical and artistic development of children.
Dance classes are offered both during the week and on the weekend, more information can be found at DanceMattersNYC.com.
Lauren Travers said that in addition to all these programs, her team will also be starting weekend programs such as art classes and special family-friendly events throughout the school year, including opportunities for families to engage in community service and attend art-related or other community events.
“We are a strong community and it is exciting to be developing and growing these kinds of experiences for children in Queens,” said one staff member. “We don’t have anything else like this in the community.”
More details on all the different educational options can be found at www.qslclasses.com
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