Macomb County Students Learn Stop-Motion Animation Through Extension Program

Michigan State University Extension is hosting two workshops for kids ages 9 to 14 to learn how to create stop-motion animation films. The sessions use robots, Legos, and Play-Doh to demonstrate methods behind classic holiday movies like "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."

Kathy Jamieson teaches through the extension program. She'll guide both workshops.

"They get to create something from start to finish, they get to design it on their own," Jamieson said, according to The Macomb Daily. "They pick the characters they want, they pick the setting, they pick the story because I'll talk about, you know, creating stories too, and they will have something at the end of class that they can show their friends so it will build confidence."

The workshops blend video making, creativity, and photography into one session. Kids might discover potential paths in technology, videography, and photography.

Apple partnered with the extension program. The company provided iPads and learning materials.

The first workshop ran from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Macomb Township Parks and Recreation building. Session two will take place on Wednesday, March 18, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Recreational Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe, at 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville.

Families must register online. Each workshop costs $7 per student.

Jamieson said the sessions aren't full yet, but spots will likely fill up soon.