LifeTown Independent Study Strengthens Connection Through Art

For Sydney Kaplan, a sophomore at Morristown Beard School, LifeTown was the perfect location for her independent study project. Kaplan has volunteered at LifeTown since seventh grade and has assisted during both art and cooking classes. Her passion for art and long-held dream of becoming an interior designer guided her decision to focus her independent study on creating innovate art classes for LifeTown participants.

“Through my independent study, I expanded my knowledge on how to work with all different types of children,” said Kaplan.

She created four classes centered around an art curriculum that was both inclusive and engaging. Each session was custom-tailored to the participants at LifeTown. Kaplan used adaptive materials and prepared supplies in advance.

“All of my lessons had meaning behind them,” said Kaplan. “Art is a more creative and engaging way to learn. But just because you plan one way, that doesn’t mean the lesson will go according to plan and that’s okay. This is more open, flexible and personal.”

Kaplan’s favorite lesson was called Feelings Monsters. Each participant created an adorable character by molding clay and adding whatever facial features corresponded with the emotion they wanted to convey, like googly eyes and smiles.

“When the kids saw the monsters, they loved it,” said Kaplan. “I brought a variety of clay colors which was fun. I felt very accomplished because prior to this lesson, the kids had only been using pencils or markers. This was so different and it was amazing to watch the kids stay longer to make seconds and thirds.”

Kaplan brought a new energy to the LifeTown art program that kids and adults enjoyed. Even the volunteers got in on the fun and created projects. Art opens doors for so many through self-expression and social engagement, strengthening connection and building confidence.

“Theres a therapeutic aspect to art,” said Kaplan. “Even for me, when I’m stressed out, art is a release. It is also very social. The kids were talking about the art and taking pictures. Art always brings positivity into an otherwise stressful day.”