Several years ago, the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) imagined a program in which young children could be engaged, learning healthy habits and social skills, while their families picked up groceries each week. Encore Stage & Studio turned out to be the perfect partner to help bring the program to life!

The Healthy Play Initiative (HPI), launched in September 2016. The program combines AFAC’s nutritional knowledge with Encore’s theatrical expertise, and the participating preschoolers are having a blast. Each week, Encore’s Teaching Artists hold class at two locations: Arlington Mill Community Center and the Gates of Ballston.

Teaching artists lead the children in activities involving movement and imagination, including learning theatre games, creating new dance steps, and more. The children, many of whom are bi-lingual or non-English speakers, also have a chance to practice their language skills. This fun classroom environment cultivates social skills such as problem solving and building friendships, helping prepare young students to transition into school.

Over a span of 43 weeks, HPI served an average of 18 children per week,
working alongside AFAC to assist 20 families facing food insecurity.

Encore is proud to partner with AFAC to better our community through creative partnerships, such as HPI. Donations from our supports help further our mission to bring “Theatre by kids, for kids” to every family and child in Arlington.