Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) hosts a Sewing/Health and Wellness class for parents. Parents bring their young children (ages 1-5) with them. The internship is designed to create a safe space where children can learn, have fun, and build meaningful connections with other children.

The program blends English language lessons to strengthen communication skills with social and emotional learning activities that help students feel confident, supported, and comfortable. Students also take part in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and teamwork, along with language and alphabet acquisition and fine motor skill development.

The main goal of the internship is to provide students with background knowledge to prepare for kindergarten by learning language, reading, fine motor, and social emotional skills.

Dates/Times/Location

April 2-June 24 on Thursdays and Fridays from 9:30 am-12:30 am in the Bridgeport Office of CIRI, 410 Colorado Avenue, Bridgeport, CT

Key Internship Duties

Assist in curriculum building and leading classroom sessions with the support of the staff youth coordinators:

Ø Create a welcoming and engaging early learning experience for Afghan children ages 1-5 that blends academics, enrichment, and recreation, helping students stay curious, connected, and excited to participate throughout the program.

Ø Build English language skills for Multilingual Learners by increasing confidence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through instruction and immersive activities, using age-appropriate curriculum tailored to students’ individual needs.

Ø Promote social and emotional well-being by offering supportive age-appropriate opportunities for teamwork, peer interaction, and creative self-expression, helping students build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of belonging.

Ø Foster curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking through hands-on learning, fine motor skills, alphabet and word acquisition, and fun activities by engaging students in arts, story time, and interactive experiences that encourage problem-solving, inquiry, teamwork, and self-expression.

Participants: The expected number of participants is 5 Afghan students (age 1-5).

Transportation: Children will be arriving at the CIRI office with their parents.