Events

Although the official anniversary of ICAN Club start-up is celebrated in summer, we have another “pre-natal” date to remember, the time when a pilot English Speaking Club project was launched, before it got today’s name and shape. It happened in December 2006, and we kept gathering in Valentina’s home for half a year to assess the viability of the idea and the attractiveness for the public. 

The official celebration of ICAN Club’s anniversary usually is arranged in summer, when children are on holidays, and this year we decided to restore justice and since 2015 we started a new tradition of having another ICAN Club’s Birthday Party for young learners in December.

Here is our reportage from ICAN Club YL’ Birthday Party.

Every member of the Club comes to the Party with a gift, which reflects their love and appreciation of the Club. The gifts have to be home made, which helps kids develop creativity and better realize the purpose and the opportunities of ICAN Club. We listened to a song about ICAN Club, decorated the walls with pictures and also get some souvenirs, like this 3D logo of ICAN Club. 

Presenting their gifts before the class was a great public speaking activity. Just compare the feelings of a student, when s/he comes out to answer a topic, and when they wish to say a few words about a gift they have created. It does not feel like a lesson, it feels like a party and a company of good friends. 

It was very moving to hear what they remember and what they value. It was also nice to remember past years, which were reflected in the Birthday Card slide created by Jane, who has been ICAN Club member since 2008. In the picture on the right five-year-old Jane is making her first presentation about Australian animals at our Australian party.

After a Birthday Cake we played Tell or Dare. More ideas can be found here. However, the ideas should be adapted to the verbal and emotional level of the learners. Our Tell or Dare cards can be downloaded here. You are welcome to share your cards in the comments or send us your file and we will add them to this page. 

Below Eve is having hard times as a "cat" - she cannot reach for the new card to break the "spell" - to finish the round and become human again. Ivan's dare was to exchange three items of clothing with other students. Practically each "Dare" required reading, asking questions for understanding and performing, and obviously every "Tell" induced speaking. 

So, we had ninety minutes of fun, ninety minutes of talking and interaction - and best memories. Of course, preparation of a party requires some extra work and expenses, but it's worth it. And the more often you arrange parties, the easier it becomes, and the most active and willing the students grow.

Happy Birthday, ICAN Club! 

You are the same age as some of the participants, but you will never become old and boring. 

P.S. If some children want to join ICAN Club, click here to contact us.