ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the impact of creative summer programming for urban children. It provides the evidence to support the importance of educational experiences in the arts for children. A conceptual model for developing effective performance arts programming for children is presented, reflecting the importance of curriculum, training, and goal oriented activities in facilitating optimal program outcomes. Video Production Club began as part of the HOME Family Support Program. The curriculum of this program provided opportunities for learning and creative expression. Facilitator field notes were also coded and analyzed in relation to the frequency of types of responses and quality of observed interactions and behaviors using a grounded theory method. Qualitative investigations from the first phase of the video project reflected the positive impact of the program. According to Pettigrew the relationships and positive feelings about individuals from other cultural groups can be generalized to help the individual have more openness towards other cultural groups with whom they are not familiar.
