Queens kids have the chance to take their first steps towards becoming future game developers, coders, designers, directors and more at this free week of workshops in Flushing.
As part of Youth Tech Workshops week, NYC Parks and Recreation will offer free classes to young learners at various centers throughout the city. In Queens, all workshops, outlined below, will take place at the Al Oerter Recreation Center at 131-40 Fowler Ave. in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
On Aug. 21, 23 or 25, kids can head to the center to learn basic video game coding concepts hands-on. Students will have the opportunity to make different types of games, including racing, platform and launching, using “Scratch,” a free programming platform. This one-day workshop will run from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
On Aug. 21, the center will also offer young learners the chance to use creative multimedia platform “Adobe Youth Voices” to explore video, audio, graphic design, animation and more. The workshop will run from 3 until 6 p.m.
On Aug. 22, 24 and 26, children can visit the center to learn how to design their own video games using RPG Maker and their own imaginations during this three-day workshop. At the program’s culmination, kids can play their newly-crafted games with friends. This workshop will run from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Interested in 3-D animation? Kids can also take advantage of a one-day workshop on Aug. 22, 24 or 26 and create their own music videos using animated characters crafted with online materials. The workshop will run from 2 until 5 p.m.
Learn how to become the next YouTube star at this one-day workshop. On Aug. 23 or 25, kids can learn how to use a video camera and edit their recordings in iMovie to create a smooth finished product. The workshop will run from 3 until 6 p.m.
All of the above Youth Tech Workshops, ideal for kids 14 years of age and younger, are available with a free youth membership to NYC Parks recreation centers, which includes access to computer resource centers and more. Each center is equipped with PCs, Macs and a variety of other digital equipment. Learn about the membership by visiting this webpage.
Questions can be directed to 718-353-7853 or crc [at] parks.nyc.gov.
