Fifteen UW–Platteville School of Education students enrolled in the K–4 Methods of Cognitive Development and Integrated Methods: Language Arts and Social Studies course led a variety of children’s activities at “Family Date Night at the Chocolate Fest,” at Family Connections of Southwest Wisconsin in Platteville Feb. 13.

The course is taught by Dr. Lindsay Hollingsworth, assistant professor in the School of Education at UW–Platteville, and Jessica Brogley, lecturer in the School of Education at UW–Platteville.

The event was co-sponsored by UW–Platteville and Family Connections, a nonprofit organization that works for the betterment of children and families by providing services to families, childcare providers and local communities in and around southwestern Wisconsin.

The UW–Platteville students designed activities that interested and engaged children from birth to age 11 and introduced them to concepts in team building, critical and creative thinking, sequencing and story telling. Activities included bridge and tower building, stop animation creation, Oobleck exploration, photo booth and creative writing. Other event activities included a chocolate fondue, baked goods, a silent auction and a movie.

UW–Platteville students who participated in the event were Chelsea Cwiak of Green Bay; Erika Friis of Rockton, Ill.; Chelsea Grabow and Evan Goetler of Roscoe, Ill.; Molly Pearce of Dubuque; Melissa Martin of Carol Stream, Ill.; McCaley Laube of Barneveld; Faye Demes of Cassville; Becca Lowe of Byron, Ill.; Amanda Mueller of Wheaton, Ill.; Sonya Beversluis of Madison; Kayla Gosdeck of Deerfield; Hayley Holmes of Lena, Ill.; Sarah McCraw of Bettendorf, Iowa; and Logan Thole of Lancaster.

“Chocolate Fest was a successful event because of collaborations between the Family Connections’ staff and board members and the School of Education’s staff and students,” said Hollingsworth. “Over 100 people enjoyed the evening’s activities.”

“Hands-on and authentic learning is so valuable for students as they apply skills and continue interacting with children,” said Brogley. “We are thankful for this opportunity.”

“The funds raised from this event are used to provide various resources needed by families and helps us provide activities that strengthen family engagement,” said Sabrina Earl, executive director of Family Connections.