Although many of Beijing’s expats have discovered Janice Chong’s amazing jewelry courses at Shou Designers’ Jewelry Academy, many parents may not be aware that the Academy also offers jewelry workshops for kids too. Last Saturday, Reina headed to Alio Olio to try her hand at making jewelry with a professional instructor. The workshop was the first of three 90 minute sessions led by Juliana Chang, one of Janice’s top graduates from the academy. Juliana said, “Jewelry making is not just a hobby to kill time but it also involves eye-hand coordination and concentration. It gives children a chance to express themselves using different color combinations, and the satisfaction that it gives children is beyond description. Boys and girls love it.”
When not helping children create beautiful and playful pieces of jewelry, Juliana works as an Infant Massage Instructor. Though not working at any school now, she is also a certified Montessori teacher – training she puts into practice at her jewelry workshops. She loves working with kids and enjoys making jewelry, so it was a natural fit and a great way for Juliana to be involved with the Beijing community.
Unfortunately, I was unable to be there when Reina made her first piece of jewelry (a bracelet made with memory wire and lots of pink beads – still her favorite color). However, Reina brought it home and let me wear it a minute while she told me about the fun time she had at the workshop. Savvy was also able to make a piece while assisting Reina from time to time, so it is a great workshop for both child and parent as both get a chance to be creative. Reina has been talking about it all week and cannot wait for the next workshop this weekend.
If you or someone you know would like to take a jewelry workshop (for kids or adults), visit the Shou Designer’s Jewelry Academy website here for course schedules and other details. For jewelry workshops for kids you can also email Juliana directly at juliana.sinostar@gmail.com.
