Virtual Series Helps Kids Build Character Amid Pandemic

NAPERVILLE, IL — Inside Out Club DuPage is launching a new virtual series to help kids build character, even amid the pandemic. The eight-week interactive series, which will be available as of Sept. 27, will engage children with activities and volunteer opportunities.

In each hour-long episode, members of the Inside Out Club staff help kids in kindergarten through third grade to learn about kindness, empathy, acceptance and other positive character traits. Inside Out Club Founder Marion Ruthig told Patch music, art or movement will be woven into each episode as well to give kids a fun way to learn.

The idea for a virtual Inside Out Club series came up when the organization's after school program was put on hold due to the new coronavirus. Ruthig said she wanted to develop something that would build character and would be similar to e-learning, but very different from e-learning.

The series partners with a number of non-profits throughout DuPage County, so kids will also get video messages showing the impact of their volunteer efforts. "Kids get to hear about the impact they are making," Ruthig told Patch.

“At Inside Out Club we believe that by focusing on core character traits we can help kids and families better problem solve, express empathy, embrace humanity and strategize for the future – even as COVID-19 and other challenges present themselves,” Ruthig said in a news release.

Inside Out Club Live is available after school, in the evening and on Sunday afternoon to accommodate different schedules. The 8-week sessions are $120 or $15 a week and partial or full waivers are available for families in need.

Click the link to learn more about Inside Out Club Live.