For instance, the endeavors of dance and benefits of aerobics are emphasized within some NYSP programs. Motivation incorporates body, mind and soul. NYSP takes pride in teaching children that the fundamentals of life are more important than any game. Participants are taught the dangers of substance abuse and provided with nutritional education. Within the required minimum of 15 hours of educational programming an emphasis is given to career planning and education.
Students get a first-hand look at the facilities and opportunities offered by higher education.
Access to the resources of a university and personal contact with institutional and community leaders can give children a chance to set goals and nurture educational aspirations for their future. The educational requirements focus on the students understanding of math and science with the benefit of summer reinforcement of classroom lessons with a creative twist. The program, which is offered at selected sites, uses a fun and hands-on curriculum to challenge participants to hone fundamental skills. Placing an emphasis on achieving higher level education and test taking skills, four sites are being used to evaluate teaching methods and needs for launching the concept nationally. NYSP enhances participants chances of achieving higher educational standards by helping students prepare for the rigors of standardized-testing methods and reinforcing reading, writing and computer skills.