Things to do in Amherst

Destination Imagination 2005-2006

Would your child like to have laws of physics revoked? Propel tennis balls across the room? Smash structures of wood and glue? If so, they're ready for Destination ImagiNation!

Destination ImagiNation is an international program to teach kids the process of creative problem solving through discovery. Students from kindergarten through High School have fun while learning to value creativity and teamwork.

Last year, DI attracted more than 2,500 students from over 200 schools and community groups in New Hampshire, who joined 250,000 students from 24 different countries and all 50 states. Over the past 24 years, there have been more than 100,000 participants in New Hampshire.

Students work in a small group to solve a Team Challenge, which will include both artistic and technical elements. Imaginative and unusual solutions generally receive the highest scores.

Adults are not allowed to help, apart from teaching basic skills such as the use of tools. Each team must create their own props, costumes, and other artistic and technical elements.

Last year, Amherst was represented by teams from Wilkins School, Amherst Middle School, and Souhegan High School. This year's teams are being formed now.

Interested parents and older students are invited to attend an information session on Wednesday, October 19 at 7:00 PM in the Amherst Town Library. This will include a short presentation to explain the program in more detail, followed by a question-and-answer session. Everyone will have an opportunity to register for a team at the end of the meeting.

Parents or students who cannot attend should contact Craig Richardson (673-7299 or ). For more information, visit New Hampshire DI (http://www.nh-di.org) or the main DI web site (http://www.idodi.org).