Kites Soaring on the Wind

"In the second month, grass grows tall and orioles take flight; willow branches brush the riverbank, drunk on the haze of spring. Children return early from school, eager to seize the eastern breeze and send their paper kites aloft." In these verses by Gao Ding, the Qing Dynasty poet, the pure and carefree joy of children running into the wind and launching their kites into the sky is captured beautifully. The graceful dance of a kite in flight captures our gaze and carries within it the hopes and longings people hold for a beautiful life.The kite, once known in ancient times as the "paper kite," was originally used for measuring wind direction, relaying signals, and military communication. Through a thousand years of evolution, it has become a beloved pastime enjoyed by all ages. A single slender string connects the earth to the sky — and bridges the wisdom of the ancients with the laughter of today.In this class, children will explore the historical origins and varied uses of the kite, learn the techniques of flying one, and admire a wonderful array of beautifully crafted kite designs. They will also craft their very own simple kite by hand, and experience the boundless joy of riding the wind and soaring through the sky!