MarbleJam Kids: Changing the View of Autism through Film-making
QUIET ON THE SET! Autism is nothing to be quiet about. It is a national crisis! Across the nation, 1 in 88 children and in the State of NJ, 1 in 49 are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. In 2007, MarbleJam Kids, Inc. (MJKids) was established by mothers of children with ASDs who identified a need not being met by their current special education programs. MJKids began with creating a signature Creative Arts Therapy Program, and has evolved into a full enrichment center offering specialized enrichment programs in the arts. The programs cater to the individual needs of participants and supplement the structured school year programs. However, MJKids realized that when when the school year ends, there are very few local camp choices for kids with ASDs that focus on the creative arts.
ACTION! In 2010, MarbleJam Kids brought Joey Travolta’s Short Film Camp to New Jersey and became the sole producer of this extraordinary camp in the region. The camp is a unique inclusion program for both typical students and those with ASDs, where they learn the art of film making. MarbleJam Kids is responsible for selecting the campers, administrating the camp, providing the support staff, and managing the on-site logistics. Mr. Travolta, special educator and filmmaker, develops the camp’s curriculum and instructs his film staff of 9 crew members with execution of the program. Although it is curriculum based to teach the necessary skill set, the camp is an experience in social cooperation and vocational skill training. Each aspect of the craft is taught in a collaborative group setting, which allows for social interaction and exploration of social skills in a generalized manner. Campers are immersed in this intensive program, learning all aspects of film making: story and plot development, character development, script writing, acting and improvisation, technology, animation, editing, filming, lighting, and set design. All students enjoy the same learning experience, and typical peer participation offers inclusion support. It is a journey of exploration and cooperation, which mirrors social interaction of life.
CUT! After two weeks of film creation, campers gather with their families on the last day to enjoy out-takes and view the raw, unedited footage of the camp experience. In the fall, the campers reunite for a Red Carpet Premiere, which showcases their final edited work to the community. This year on December 1, 2013 the 54 campers took to the Red Carpet to debut “Inclusion Network”, the JTSFC 2014 theme for the films. The MarbleJam Kids’ campers beamed with pride as they viewed the finished project, shining as 200 guests applauded their accomplishments.
PRINT! Film-making and fun continues throughout the year in the form of a monthly Film Club: MJKids Peer Vision Film Club. The club provides more social opportunities for children and teens, building upon relationships formed at camp, and helping extend the support network among their families. During the club, the students continue to work with skills they learned at camp and pursue more projects in the art of film making. Last year, the group collaborated to create a public service announcement addressing the national problem of bullying. They showcased an original song, “Just Be Nice”, by Talina, a gifted singer songwriter and a teen with ASD. Increased self esteem and pride show through during this experience. Campers have taught us: when given an opportunity, individuals will show you their brilliance. Working together, it illustrates just how important acceptance and inclusion is for positive development.