- (l-r) Lindsay Peterson, Thing 1 and Josh Medieros, The Cat in the Hat enjoy the theme day at the Mystic Education Center.
story & photo
by Crystal Harpstreit
Face paint and Cat in the Hat inspired accessories were the universal them on Saturday, January 31st at the Mystic Education Center. The costumes were all part of a special day of Dr. Seuss themed swimming lessons. Kids ages three to 15 and those from the beginner swim level to advanced participated in the event and instructors dressed up as well.
There was a feeling of excitement in the air as the kids got their costumes together and got ready to jump in the pool. Josh Medieros, the program director says, “I’m really big into themes, I wanted to bring that energy in.” Josh also works at a camp during the summer where he says that they have regular, “Theme days,” as well.
The students swam, laughed and splashed around in the pool as they improved their swimming skills and socialized. Swim lessons were accompanied by story time with the swim instructors who read Dr. Seuss’ classic books to the children. Even parents, such as Lisa Lambert sat with her son Luke and listened on as Erin Blette read “Green Eggs and Ham” aloud in the lobby of the Mystic Education Center. Erin will soon take over as the new director when Josh, a recent Southern Connecticut State University graduate, leaves.
Games were part of the day as well. Josh says, “We’re going all out with it,” about the Dr. Seuss themed day.
On coming up with the idea for the Dr. Seuss theme, Josh says that the Mystic Education Center’s employees, including Lindsay Peterson, Kevin Grant and Cory Calamari came up with the idea after some, “Brainstorming.” Instructors decided that the Dr. Seuss theme would be enjoyable because his books are such a well known part of American pop-culture and are, just plain fun. This event is part of the 10 week winter session which began last fall.
Theming the day is very popular with everyone involved and there will be more in the future, Josh says, “We look forward to doing more themed events in the future and hope that more people come to see what we’re about.”
The Mystic Education Center is located at 240 Oral School Road.
Posted on March 3rd, 2010 | category: Community Spirit, Featured Articles
