Through children's programming and school tours, the Getty House Foundation is committed to bringing unique and enriching experiences to children. Of particular interest to the Foundation are programs relating to the history of the City, the rich heritage of Los Angeles' families and the role of City government in the lives of all Angelenos.
The Getty House Foundation is an official Los Angeles Unified School District field trip destination. Each Wednesday, two fourth grade classes from different Los Angeles Unified schools arrive for a two-hour Tour and Civics Program. Students are given a tour of Getty House followed by snacks and recreation time. They then congregate and are led in a discussion about the City Flag and City Seal, the role of the Mayor and their City Council Representative in local government and the basic structure of City Government. After the discussion, each student has the opportunity to write to the Mayor and their City Council member offering comments and suggestions for improving their neighborhood. Each student leaves Getty House with a T-shirt, pencil and a handout with additional information about the Mayor and their City Council member.
Additionally, the Foundation offers a series of unique after school educational programs focusing on American History, the environment and the arts. The children attending are from LA's BEST, an after school enrichment program, the Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, the Assistance League's Children's Club and the Department of Recreation and Parks.
American History programs have included Rev. Dennis M. Brown, performing "The Voice of Martin Luther King, Jr.," an enthralling lecture/performance of historic speeches and songs from the Civil Rights Era and Imagination Central's witty performance of "Fathers of Freedom," a celebration of Washington's and Lincoln's birthdays. Environmental programs have included a live tropical bird show by Parrot Productions that emphasized the beauty of the Brazilian Rain Forrest and a hands on tree planting session with Tree People that encourages responsible, caring behaviors and attitudes towards nature. For the Art Days, the members of the Jr. Philharmonic's Music Mobile visited and taught children about the instruments in an orchestra and Gypsy Folk Ensemble performed colorful international dances followed by a dance workshop.
Children from the YMCA and LA's Best joined us in this past year for a monthly Reading Corner, consisting of a tour of Getty House and a reading session with our volunteer readers. Each child who visits Getty House receives a souvenir bag, which includes a T-shirt, storybook and a pencil. Our sincere gratitude goes to our many loyal volunteers who make our programs so successful.
Here are some photos from recent Children's Programs:
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