The Friends of the Eric Sloane Museum are offering a series of free programs this summer for children and teens

The Friends of the Eric Sloane Museum are offering a series of free programs this summer for children and teens

KENT – The Friends of the Eric Sloane Museum are offering a series of free programs this summer for children and teens that explores clouds, weather and flight, which were all topics that Eric Sloane wrote about, illustrated and painted.

“Ellie and the Clouds” on July 8 for ages 8 to 12 and Aug. 5 for ages 12-15 explores the history of Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) in World War II, with additional activities focused on the clouds and weather. Participants will learn about and observe clouds, have an opportunity to draw and paint clouds, as well as conduct some research by flying gliders and collecting data on their flights.

The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) program is inspired by the book, “Ellie and the Clouds” by Wil Mauch. It is a story of Ellie, a young girl who is captivated by clouds, and features dozens of illustrations by Sloane. Sloane was well known for his interest and exploration of weather through his cloudscapes, of which several are on display in the museum.

This program is made possible through generous federal grant funding from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) administered by the town of Kent. Classes are free but registration is required due to limited space, www.eventbrite.com/o/the-eric-sloane-museum-32672883341. All students must be accompanied by an adult.

Author: Harlem Valley News