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1. “Find out more about where and when bullying happens at your school. Think about what could help. Then, share your ideas. There is a good chance that adults don’t know all of what happens. Your friends can go with you to talk to a teacher, counselor, coach, or parent and can add what they think.”

Most children want to be kind and make a difference. They also want to feel like they are being heard and respected.

Take kids on a safety walk around school or the places that they play and have them point out where they think or know bullying is happening. Then help them brainstorm things they believe would make the area safer.

Some children might not feel comfortable doing this activity out loud, especially if the person bullying them is nearby. If you’re a teacher, consider putting a “safety suggestions box” in your classroom where students can confidentially put safety concerns, suggestions, or report bullying.

2. “Talk to the principal about getting involved at school. Schools sometimes give students a voice in programs to stop bullying. Be on a school safety committee. Create posters for your school about bullying. Be a role model for younger kids.”

Giving kids the power to combat bullying in their school helps them take ownership of their school.

Have your class sit down for a “town meeting” with the principal and brainstorm ways students can be involved at school. Once there is a list of things the school is willing to enact, have students choose ways to be involved that fit their own talents and interests.

Artists might love making posters, social media presentations or painting kindness murals or Buddy Benches. Kids who enjoy being leaders might want to host kindness clubs at lunch. Students who are gifted at being a role model or mentoring might choose to partner with a younger student for games, outings or weekly lunches.

The more power and control the students have over creating a culture of kindness, the more likely they are to stay involved and avoid bullying.

3. “Write a blog, letter to the editor of your local
newspaper, or tweet about bullying.”

Helping your class or individual students write blogs, letters or social media posts about bullying teaches skills that go well beyond the classroom.

And having them advocate for change using social media or the news can rally an entire community around this important cause.

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1. “Stop and think before you say or do something that could hurt someone.”

Children often feel big emotions and don’t always understand how to express them. They may not intend to hurt others, but it sometimes happens.

One skill you can teach a child who has bullied, is  to intentionally take a pause instead of acting out.

Deep breathing is one technique to teach, and one that many children learn easily. It’s calming and can help them regain control.

Have them close their eyes, breathe in while counting to five, and then breathe out while counting to five.

2: “If you feel like being mean to someone, find something else to do. Play a game, watch TV, or talk to a friend.”

We all have situations that make us angry even after we try to calm down. And nearly everyone can benefit in those situations from a shift of focus. One tool that can help children make that shift when they have the urge to bully is the Big Emotions Game Plan:

With this technique, have kids list five positive things they can do instead of being mean, when they experience big emotions:

For example, playing a game, going for a walk, watching tv, talking to an adult or friend, shooting some hoops, petting their dog or hitting a punching bag – any activity that can release big emotions without hurting others.

Other techniques: Teach children to journal or write a do-not-send letter instead of acting feelings out in harmful ways.

3: “Talk to an adult you trust. They can help you find ways to be nicer to others.”

It’s important for children to know who to turn to when they’re in trouble, and bullying puts every child involved at risk. You can begin to help children by making a list of adults that they can turn to when hurt, upset, concerned, or when they just need a little guidance. Then suggest or role-play ways to communicate their feelings so that adults will understand.

4: “Keep in mind that everyone is different. Not better or worse. Just different.”

Celebrating diversity and striving for inclusion helps children understand that everyone is unique and that differences are gifts to share rather than obstacles to defend against or to attack.

While there are no quick and easy ways to open children’s minds, there are things that teachers and parents can do to help them.

A class or family could learn American Sign Language to communicate with a child who has hearing loss. Or celebrate diversity by learning about new cultures every month.

Approaching diversity In a more general way, parents and teachers can fill their homes and classrooms with books, music, media programs and artwork that represent a variety of abilities, cultures and family types. When children are exposed to different types of people from an early age, they learn to see differences as normal.

5. “If you think you have bullied someone in the past, apologize. Everyone feels better.”

It can be difficult to admit being wrong when we hurt others. As a teacher or parent, you can help a child who has done something hurtful by showing them how to apologize and make things right.

Sometimes, it’s easiest to learn this by writing a letter, or for younger children, drawing a picture.

Children may need to learn from you what an apology actually is, how to deliver it, and how to respond when an apology is or isn’t accepted.

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1. “Talk to a parent, teacher, or another adult you trust. Adults need to know when bad things happen so they can help.”

Teaching children “if you see something, say something” is an incredibly valuable way to give them control over their environment.

Adults are not always able to see everything that happens. Many children may feel uncomfortable saying something because they don’t want to be told they are tattling or being nosy.

To help kids understand when it’s important to find an adult to intervene, create lists of scenarios they can put into “tattling” or “telling” groups.

One scenario for example might be seeing a child push another child down (tell), or seeing a note from a classmate on a message board about a plan to hurt others (tell), or a student sticking his or her tongue out at someone else (tattling) etc.

2: “Be kind to the kid being bullied. Show them that you care by trying to include them. Sit with them at lunch or on the bus, talk to them at school, or invite them to do something. Just hanging out with them will help them know they aren’t alone.”

Even if your child or student isn’t being bullied, he or she probably knows someone that is.

Help your students or children understand how a child who is being bullied feels. Watching the movie Wonder is a great way to show them the perspective of a child being bullied. Then, help them brainstorm ways to reach out to a peer who is experiencing bullying.

You might even consider holding a class fundraiser to purchase or make a Buddy Bench, and then teach the students that if a child is sitting on that bench, it means that he or she is feeling lonely and wants to be included. If they see someone on the bench, they should go over and offer to talk, play or be a friend.

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1. “Look at the kid bullying you and tell him or her to stop in a calm, clear voice. You can also try to laugh it off. This works best if joking is easy for you. It could catch the kid bullying you off guard.”

It can be hard for some kids to stand up for themselves. Some children are shy or may not have the ability to look another child in the eyes and tell him or her to stop.

This is a great opportunity to role play in class or at home. You can do this one-on-one or with a group of other children by acting out different scenarios where bullying might come into play. Your role would then be to coach the child or children through each interaction, showing them through words and actions how to stand tall and be bold.

2: “If speaking up seems too hard or not safe, walk away and stay away. Don’t fight back. Find an adult to stop the bullying on the spot.”

Sometimes, it’s not safe for a child to stand up to a bully, or the child is physically or emotionally unable to do so.

Role playing is also useful here, with your role as coach being to show them ways to get out of a situation. Teach kids to walk away and if a friend is nearby, find that friend and walk together to find a trusted adult. But that’s only half the task:

It’s important to remind teachers, school officials and other parents that it is essential to truly listen to a child who reports being bullied. If a child doesn’t feel heard, he or she likely won’t feel safe finding an adult to help in the future.

3: “Talk to an adult you trust. Don’t keep your feelings inside. Telling someone can help you feel less alone. They can help you make a plan to stop the bullying.”

Being bullied can cause children to develop anxiety, depression and in some, suicidal thoughts.

It’s important for children to find someone they trust to talk about these feelings. Remind kids about their list of trusted adults that was previously mentioned. Remind them that they aren’t alone and that there are adults who care about them.

Also, teach them the importance of finding help when their feelings are too big to handle. Emphasize that if they’re feeling sad, depressed, anxious or have thoughts about hurting themselves, they need to talk to a parent or other trusted adult immediately.

Discussing the importance of being open about mental health won’t cause your students or children to be depressed or have thoughts of self-harm, but it will let them know that you’re a safe person they turn to if they are feeling that way. You might consider having a confidential “mental health check-in” in your classroom as well

4: “Stay away from places where bullying happens.”

Sometimes, bullying can be avoided just by staying out of a particular location.

If bullying happens in more isolated locations, such as the far corners of the playground or in an empty hall, teach kids to avoid those areas or to walk with a buddy.

Social media, text messaging and other online activities are also likely places where bullying can happen.

If you’re a teacher and your students are online, encourage parents to enact phone/tablet/computer checks on a random basis so that bullying can be caught early on. It’s also important to teach kids that if they see bullying online or are being bullied themselves, to immediately take their device to a trusted adult.

5. “Stay near adults and other kids. Most bullying happens when adults aren’t around.”

Bullying is less likely to occur in places that are well-supervised.

Ensure that areas around your school where unstructured activities are happening (lunch, recess or transition areas especially) are well supervised. If you are at the playground, make sure you or other adults are near the play area and are visible to your children. Teach kids to stay in brightly lit areas where there are nearby adults.

If you’re a teacher, you can even take your class to the playground or around the school and have them point out areas that are safe places to play and those that are less safe. If students point out particular areas where bullying is happening, you might consider approaching administration to ask for additional supervision in those areas. 

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How Pottery Classes Are Good for Kids

The latest data on how art affects kids is pretty startling all by itself, with kids exposed to art not only doing better in school, but growing into better people. But pottery specifically? How does pottery offer something special to kids? As it turns out, pottery does provide kids with something special—both pottery painting  (along with other forms of painting) and even more so – work with clay. Both have been found to assist child development, helping children to develop fine motor skills, problem-solving skills, imagination, initiative, and curiosity (among other benefits). All of which makes pottery classes a good idea for many kids. And since there are really two very different kinds of childrens pottery classes being offered these days, let’s spin the wheel and look at both.

One: Going Old School- Pottery Making Classes for Kids

With the current popularity of pottery painting in studios and homes across the country, pottery making classes for kids (where kids make ceramics from scratch, kneading the clay and then firing it in a kiln) are a far rarer breed.

These classes typically take place in ceramics studios, although venues like art museums sometimes also offer them too. Since they take more effort to master than kids pottery painting classes and are usually more involved, they take more of a commitment, are more costly, and take more time to learn.

For that reason, kids who just want to dip a toe in the water are probably better off taking an introductory class or workshop, such as the one-day classes that art museums sometimes offer.

For more serious budding potters, a day camp will offer more.  Pottery camps for kids are usually held for five days after school or during spring or summer break. At a pottery day camp, your child will probably do a combination of pottery making and other fun activities, such as outdoor play or exploring other art mediums.

Multi-week youth pottery classes that provide more advanced instruction are also an option. These can be pretty pricey, but kids will be able to meet with an instructor a lot over multiple weeks and gain a lot of skill. These classes are often offered in sessions of four to twelve weeks, with a monthly or multi-week commitment.

Lastly, if classes and camps aren’t available, somehow don’t work for your child, or your child simply falls in love with the craft and wants more, many artists offer private pottery lessons.

What Kids Learn

Kids pottery making classes offer instruction in three techniques, and most studios offer a combination of all three:

Wheel Throwing Classes

When you picture a children’s pottery making class, you probably see kids and an instructor tossing clay onto a potter’s wheel. This technique is referred to as wheel throwing and is what many professional potters use to make their works. Because wheel throwing can be a bit complicated, these classes are typically only offered for older kids—tweens and teens.

“Hand Building” Classes

Hand building is easier than wheel throwing for young children. In hand building class, your child will learn coiling, slab, and pinching techniques. This technique can be used for making bowls and cups, along with a world of other 3d creations.

Sculpting, mosaics, decorating and glazing

Pottery making is not just making bowls or vases. Some classes specialize in sculpting, while others teach your child how to decorate and glaze.

Learning to create mosaics is a more unique form of pottery making that can be used to create abstract pieces, coasters and tiles or even decorative stepping stones for the garden. When children learn mosaics, they also learn skills such as grouting and using resin to create sturdy pieces. Some clay studios also offer classes on making stained glass!

How Kids Benefit

The benefits of pottery making classes for kids? In addition to the techniques and skills they learn, kids get to work with one of the most important artistic mediums known to man (clay) as an accomplished artist or craftsperson would, learning to create a piece of art from scratch through patience, persistence, and growing artistic ability, all guided by an experienced mentor. Pretty exciting stuff when you think about it.

Choosing A Children’s Pottery Making Class

Have a kid just starting out? Then look for a pottery studio that offers a beginner-only group. Unlike many other kids art classes, pottery making can take a while to learn and can be frustrating for a kid struggling with the basics while the rest of the class has moved on to advanced techniques. If your child has never done pottery before, finding a studio that offers classes specifically for beginners will help ensure a frustration-free experience.

Along the same lines, look for a pottery/ceramics class with a low student–teacher ratio, especially if your child is just beginning. If there are too many other students in the class, your child might not get the help he or she needs. As kids get more proficient, higher student–teacher ratios are okay, but in the beginning, you want them to get more individualized instruction.

And after you do choose your class, here’s a quick tip:

Put your young potter in play clothes! Clay itself doesn’t stain, but pottery making is messy! There’s going to be plenty of splishing and splashing and you can expect kids to come home wet and dirty. Perhaps keep some spare clothes in the car for your child to change into so that she has something nice and dry waiting for her.

Two: Going New School- Kid’s Pottery Painting Classes

If the idea of a full-blown pottery making class isn’t exactly kiln it for you, a pottery painting class may turn out to be your stroke of genius. Pottery painting classes for kids are fun, easier to master, and require less of a time commitment than their squishier counterparts. They also provide a more family-friendly experience if you’re just looking for an afternoon of family time or an activity to beat the winter blues.

Class or Party?

Kids pottery painting classes (and the adult ones too) come in two basic flavors. There are in-studio pottery classes, where your kids pick out a piece of ceramic and paint it in a group (including drop-ins, scheduled classes and pottery painting camps). Or kids painting parties, especially popular for birthdays, where you reserve the studio and kids enjoy an afternoon of pottery painting, cake and goodies.

Benefits of Pottery Painting Classes

So why pottery painting? Because pottery painting classes for kids are fun for just about everybody—for older kids and young ones too.  They’re non-competitive, and there’s no right or wrong way to do them, meaning that kids are free to be creative and play without worrying that they’ve messed something up. And even though the day may be about pure, wacky fun, kids are still getting the same fine motor skills benefits they would from drawing or painting on paper, along with the satisfaction of creating some pretty cool stuff… like a piggy bank, a vase, or a nifty new way to decorate a shelf.

And Psst…There’s Something in It for You Too

As a parent of young children, I’m not ashamed to admit that one of my favorite perks of kids pottery painting studios is that they’ll do all of the set-up and cleanup. It’s great to have a messy and creative afternoon out with my kids and not have to worry about gathering all of the supplies and then wiping paint off the table or the floor!

Another potential perk though not a sure thing, is that some pottery painting places don’t have a studio fee. So you only pay for the piece you complete. That is definitely a bonus if you have multiple children or become a pottery painting family!

The Lowdown on How It Works

For the uninitiated, here’s the typical step-by-step for most pottery classes for kids:

• First, the kids (or you and the kids) choose a pottery piece.
• Next, they’ll receive instruction from the teacher. They’ll learn how to gather their paint and supplies, and then how to use different techniques to create their masterpiece. If you or your child have questions while painting, be sure to ask the teacher!
• Next, it’s time to get to work painting!
• Once finished, the painted piece is put into the kiln to dry for about one week.

So Kids Paint What… Pots?

The variety of pieces your child can paint are virtually unlimited. Of course, there are the usual plates, bowls and tea cups. But some of the more unique options include chopstick holders, colanders, piggy banks, tiles, dinosaur figurines, picture frames, princess figurines, ceramic cupcakes, vases, Christmas ornaments and even ceramic jack-o-lanterns!

*And important to note! Most studios use only food-safe glaze so your child’s pieces will be safe to eat off of as well. If you have any doubt, ask!

My Child Is Just Learning…Can He Still Paint?

Kids definitely don’t need to be expert at anything to enjoy pottery painting classes. Most studios in fact offer a little extra help, including stencils, stickers, carbon paper and tracing paper to help kids make their work look a little more polished, if that’s what they’re after.

What to Look for in a Pottery Painting Class?

While your kid’s not going to miss the boat on college because you chose the wrong pottery painting class, you also want to choose the right one. Since many kids pottery studios cater to adults too, it’s important to find ones that put children high on the agenda. You’ll want to look for:

• Selection: Check to see that the studio has a large and varied selection of pottery pieces. My little ones tend to be very picky (*ahem, particular) about the pieces that they choose, so having a large selection means that you won’t walk away empty handed with a disappointed child.
• Space: Few things will ruin a childs pottery painting class faster than not being able to walk around without bumping into others (or worse, having someone bump into your child, causing him to drop his precious work of art!). Find a studio that has enough room to work without having to scoot around other painters.
• Aprons/smocks: Some studios do not provide aprons or smocks, or they might not have enough of the right size for your little one. While the paint is usually washable, you’ll still want smocks (and just to be sure, have your child dress in clothes that can get dirty.
• Organization: I’m the type of parent who loves things neat and organized, but for kids, having organized supplies at the right height is good too.
• Materials: Typically, pottery painting places are open to the public, so there’s a good chance that you’ll be painting with other customers while you’re there. A good studio will have ample supplies for everyone so that you can concentrate on having a fun afternoon out with your little one, without having to borrow supplies from other painters.

Pleasant Surprises and Fun Extras

Some of the better kids pottery painting places offer little extras that go above and beyond to provide a great experience. What to look for?

Kids may not be able to start and finish their piece all on the same day. So some pottery painting studios allow guests to finish later free of charge. This is a great option for toddlers and preschoolers who may not always have the longest attention span.

And a few wisely understand that the quickest way to some children’s (and teen’s!) hearts is through the stomach. Studios that offer free refreshments or even family pizza nights ensure a fun family activity without having to worry about packing snacks or consoling hungry toddlers.

Finally, if you’re a deal-loving parent like myself, discount days are a fun way to try something new without putting a dent in the budget!

Tips for the Perfect Family Pottery Painting Outing

Now that you found just the perfect place to take your young Picassos pottery painting, here are a few last tips to make sure your creative afternoon happens without a hitch.

• First, sometimes the busier pottery painting places can be well… really busy. This is especially true on weekends and school vacations. If you want to make sure your squirmy preschooler or impatient tween isn’t waiting a long time for a turn, it’s a good idea to make a reservation.
• As mentioned before… not all studios provide smocks! You want your kids to have fun without having to worry about getting paint on their shirt, so remember to bring that smock. And hey, if you don’t have a smock, an adult-sized old t-shirt works as well!
• Finally, have a budget in mind before you walk in and since pottery pieces range in price widely, plan to gently direct your child to pieces in that price range. This way, your little one finds a piece he or she loves at a price that makes you happy as well!

With all of the benefits and fun of pottery classes for kids, there’s no better time for your child to begin exploring the world of clay, kilns and glaze.

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There are abundant ways to throw painting birthday parties at home. Instead, let’s look at painting birthday party places and how to choose one for a party your child will never forget.

Check Out The Location

With paint parties, the right location can mean the difference between a fun and relaxing party and one that leaves kids grumbling.

The first thing you’re bound to notice when you visit an art party studio is the attractiveness, orderliness, and lighting of the space. And while those are important of course, you’ll want to make sure there’s also plenty of room – enough for your entire guest list, plus extra for messy and creative play.

Make sure there’s abundant parking too.  You won’t want any guests missing part of the party because they had to circle for a spot.

And well before you book the space, ask about the minimum and maximum number of guests allowed, as well as the age range that’s most appropriate for the party.

Choose Party Themes

Part of the fun of a painting party is getting to choose a fun art theme. Some studios have one or two options, such as canvas or pottery painting. Others have several options to choose from, or you can choose a party where guests can explore a variety of techniques. Be sure to let the facility know exactly what you’re hoping for – do you want a structured lesson where everyone learns to paint a similar design or make the same craft, or would you prefer several options be available so your guests can choose their own activities.

Ask What’s Included

You’ll want to ask each facility what they include in the cost of the party. Some art birthday party places charge for the supplies and lesson, while others include invitations, food, additional activities and even decorations.

Of course, you should also ask about the all-important goodie bag. Some venues supply their own thank you gifts for party guests, while others ask that you bring treat bags in. Remember that in addition to the bags, kids will also – hopefully – be bringing their own handmade masterpieces home.

Evaluate Party Staff And Teachers

As with art classes for kids and art camps for kids that we talk about elsewhere, having the right teacher at your party can make the difference between an experience to remember and one you would sooner forget.

Speak with staff and teachers. And when you do, look for people who clearly love working with children. Also if possible, look for people who are enthusiastic and passionate about art. Sure, it’s just a party. But you also want your child and guests to feel inspired to create long after the party ends.

Look for a good staff to guest ratio, too. The last thing you’ll want is an overwhelmed teacher in charge of 30 rambunctious children all in need of help. Along the same lines, if your guest list is large or the art projects complex, ask about staffing the party with more people. There will be an extra cost, but it may be easily worth it.

Nail Down The Party Schedule

A bit of strong advice – don’t neglect the schedule. If time in the studio is too short or too many activities have been planned, the party will feel rushed. Too few activities on the other hand, or the party is too drawn out, and you’re likely to hear the dreaded words, “I’m boooored.”

A good schedule for a kids’ painting party should include ample time in the studio, time to interact with the artist/staff, and time for a meal, cake and ice cream, opening gifts and fun activities to get your guests up and moving.

A great painting birthday party is one with good food, great friends and plenty of opportunities to get messy and be creative…and maybe even be inspired by the artist teaching the lesson. With careful planning and the right art studio, your child’s paint party will be one that they, and you, will always remember!

Checklist for Choosing the Best Painting Party Places for Kids

✓   Will you use an independent children’s party studio, or are venues like Michaels or Joanne more your style?
✓   Where can the party be hosted (only in the studio itself, or elsewhere, such as in a park)?
✓   If the party is at a studio, is ample parking available?
✓   Are parents encouraged to drop off their children or stay at the party?
✓   Is the cost per child or per paint party?
✓   What is the total expected cost?
✓   What is included in the cost (invitations, art materials, goodie bags, food, etc.)?
✓   What paint party themes are available?
✓   What projects will the guests work on? What will they take home?
✓   What do I need to provide (aprons, food, etc.)?
✓   What are the minimum and maximum number of guests?
✓   What age range can be accommodated?
✓   What is a typical party schedule?
✓   What are the qualifications of the instructor?
✓   Does the instructor enjoy and know how to work with children?
✓   Is the instructor engaging, encouraging and patient?
✓   Can the special needs/disabilities of my guests be accommodated?
✓   How many staff or instructors are provided?

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What Type Of Camp Are You Looking For?

Art camp can mean several different kinds of experiences. There are:

• Daily after school programs
• Full day camps during Christmas or spring breaks
• Day camps during the summer (weekend, week-long or summer-long)
• Overnight camps

Daily After School Art Programs

Most daily after school camps operate similar to childcare, providing children with activities, snacks and even homework help (for more see our art classes for kids page). They often operate for a few hours a day, typically ending around dinner time.

Full Day Childrens Art Camps

Full day camps during the school year are designed to give children enrichment and care during school breaks when parents might be at work. They are often open during typical daytime working hours, while day camps during the summer might start early in the morning and extend through early evening hours.

Summer day camps might also involve field trips, outdoor activities or other traditional camp experiences, minus the sleeping in cabins or tents.

When looking for a great after school or day camp, you will want to make sure that the hours meet your needs. If you need childcare until 7 PM every evening, for example, a camp with a mandatory 5 PM pick-up time would not be a good match.

Overnight Kids Art Camps

Overnight camps, however, are what might come to mind when you think of the typical summer camp. They can be more immersive experiences, with hours spent each day focused on art. However, campers also typically eat all meals at the camp, sleep in cabins or tents and participate in other activities like swimming, hiking, bonfires and sports.

For overnight camps, and even for summer day camps, ask about whether the camp is accredited or licensed. In many states, camps that care for children more than a couple hours a week need to be licensed and staff need to meet strict background check guidelines.

Pay Attention To Staffing

Your child will spend a considerable amount of time at camp – far more than in a weekly class. This makes camp staffing especially important. There are several important considerations when looking at camp staff that may not be as important for an art party or class:

• What qualifications does the camp director have? Is he or she a professional artist? Do they have experience running a camp?
• Where are counselors and staff members recruited from? Do they have a large number of former campers returning as staff (happy campers often want to give back to their camp by becoming a counselor when they are older!)?
• Do staff have the appropriate background checks?
• What training do staff members receive? Are they first aid/CPR certified?

Of course, you also want to make sure that the staff members and counselors are engaging and seem to love what they do. Camp can be long for both the staff and kids, but energetic and engaging counselors are essential in helping your child have an experience they’ll happily remember. Campers can feel if their counselors love being there – a great camp counselor’s energy and enthusiasm are contagious! Even the most reluctant camper is more willing to try new activities if the counselor is passionate and encouraging.

If the camp is an overnight camp, make sure the counselors have a plan for helping homesick children too!

Look At Camp Schedules And Activities

Unless your child is attending an intensive specialized camp, they will likely not want to sit for hours at a time doing art every day. Great camps have a variety of activities designed to stimulate the mind and get the body moving. The longer the camp, the more activity variety the camp should have. While an after school camp might only have time for a craft project, a snack, a brief recess and maybe a story, an overnight camp should have a good mixture of art activities, socialization opportunities, structured outdoor activities and recreational opportunities.

Camps should have plans for inclement weather too, especially if those camps have outdoor activities. Nothing is less fun for a child than to be excited for a fun day outdoors only to be stuck indoors because of rain with nothing to do. A well-run camp will always have a backup plan for bad weather!

Safety First! – Check Out Emergency Procedures

Unfortunately, even at the best-run camps, accidents and emergencies happen.

If the camp offers outdoor activities or field trips, make sure to ask about safety and procedures for leaving the main building. If the camp has a pool, check to make sure there are lifeguards available. If campers attend field trips, ask about how children are transported.

If the camp is a day camp or overnight camp, ask about procedures for administering medications or applying sunscreens, medical care in case of an illness or injury or how your child’s special need or medical condition will be accommodated. If your child requires an inhaler or epi pen, ask about their policy for self-carry and self-administration as well! It is a whole lot easier to feel comfortable sending your child to camp when you know that the camp can keep your little one safe in any emergency!

Art camps for kids can be exciting and provide great learning experiences. With careful planning, you’ll find one that’s not only perfect for your young artist, but gives them an experience they’ll always remember!

Checklist For Choosing The Best Art Camp For Kids

Here’s a handy checklist for choosing a great kid’s art camp:

✓   Is the camp a day camp or overnight camp?
✓   What age range does the camp cover?
✓   What is the cost of the camp?
✓   What is the camper to counselor ratio?
✓   Can the camp accommodate my child’s special need or disability?
✓   What non-art activities are available for campers?
✓   What plans are in place for inclement weather?
✓   What qualifications does the camp director have?
✓   What qualifications do the camp counselors have?
✓   What training do camp staff receive?
✓   Are the counselors, director and staff encouraging, engaging and patient?
✓   Can children choose their roommates (for overnight camp)?
✓   Are camp hours/days flexible?
✓   Are meals provided (and if so, are food allergies accommodated)?
✓   How can parents communicate with their students while at camp?
✓   Is the camp accredited or licensed by any local, state or national organizations?
✓   What is the typical day like at camp? Are there a variety of activities? Good art camps for kids should offer a good mix.
✓   Is there space for outdoor exploration and play?
✓   How does the camp handle behavior/discipline issues?
✓   Are there procedures for administering medication/sunscreens?
✓   What types of art will my child get to explore? What types of projects will they bring home?
✓   Is the camp focused on refining a specific art skill or exploring a variety of mediums?
✓   How is creativity encouraged at this camp?
✓   Are there opportunities for my child to take on leadership roles over time (for annual camps)?
✓   Is the camp location convenient for drop-off and pick-up?

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But finding a truly great class– an art class kids will feel excited, challenged, and inspired by – that may be the real trick.

With that goal in mind, here’s a handy guide to choosing the best children’s art classes, along with a useful checklist at the end.

Don’t Look For A Great Class. Look For A Great Studio.

Art classes for kids can be amazing. And sometimes just meh. But just like the classes your child takes at school, they’re changing all the time.

But the studios are built on reputations. So it may not be the art class that you want to check out first. But the studio itself.  And you’ll want to begin with what they offer.

Find The Right Studio Fit For Your Child

If your budding Picasso is interested in a children’s pottery class, that kids canvas painting studio your friend recommended won’t be a good match, even if it’s the highest rated one in town.

And if your little artist’s passion for “pottery” means that she wants to paint figurines for an hour or two, signing her up for a fancy ceramics studio membership may end in a less than happy outcome.

You’ll find that while some kids art studios focus on just one medium, like canvas or pottery painting, others offer a variety.  You might even find kids studios that offer surprising and unique choices, like printmaking, puppetry, animation, eco-art or kite-making.

Choose An Appropriate Age Range

Age matters too. For young children or kids just starting out, studios without a specific focus will allow them to explore a variety of art mediums. Older kids on the other hand are likely to enjoy a more specialized focus, allowing them to refine their skills with one or two mediums.

Mom And Pop Studio? Or Franchise?

Another thing to consider when choosing an art class for kids is whether you prefer a franchise, an independent studio or a studio within a museum.

With a franchise, classes might be more standardized, and you will likely be able to continue classes if you move to another city with classes from the same corporation.

An independent studio is often run by a local professional artist. Rather than locations throughout the state or country, the artist might only work within a particular city or town. Finally, art classes might be offered by local museums or parks, in conjunction with special events or exhibits.

The Space Itself Matters

Once you’ve narrowed down your studio list, it’s time to look a little deeper into what the spaces themselves are like.

Children (and adults too, right?) often feel more comfortable in a space that is spacious and bright rather than dark or cramped.

Especially when your children are younger, it’s important to seek out spaces that are designed for children. A poorly-lit and disorganized studio will not only make it difficult for kids to see, but could present a safety hazard as they work with materials and move around.

Not least of all, a bright cheery studio makes kids feel happier and more relaxed, which is what we want when they’re creating! Can there be anything better than seeing your child skipping happily into a class they love? Nope. And the quality of the space has a lot to do with that.

Organization and ergonomics are important, too. A well-designed childrens studio should have tables, chairs, and shelving that are the right height for younger guests. And the overall set up should make it easy for kids to get in and out of chairs, gather materials and clean up their space.

Evaluate The Staff And Teachers

And here’s where the rubber really hits the road. Because the teacher can make or break a kid’s art class.

Look For Teachers Who Enjoy Working With Kids

In many childrens art studios, the teacher is a professional artist who teaches kids how to think about art and instructs them in artistic techniques. In others, s/he may be someone who just loves arts and crafts.

In either case, and regardless of any credentials you may be looking for, you’ll do your child a massive favor by putting a high bar on the way they interact with the children they teach.

Because kids respond to art teachers who enjoy working with them and  trust teachers who are both patient and calm. When children find those qualities, they begin to feel comfortable around an art teacher, and that’s when creativity can begin to shine.

Look For Teachers Who Inspire

It’s also important for a teacher to be engaging, to captivate a class, and to inspire a love of learning and art. Think those are rare qualities? Maybe. But you’ll find that many art teachers have them (Yay, art).

A good art teacher should also take the time to explain and demonstrate the techniques being learned, and be willing to work one-on-one with a struggling learner.

Look For Teachers Who Encourage Creativity

Speaking personally if I may, because I know many other parents share my opinion, when I enroll my child in an art class, it’s important to me that the teacher allow a lot of independent creativity.

When one of my daughters was younger, we were at a library-based art class. My daughter was doing her craft and the teacher came by and rearranged her work, saying “I bet your mom wants you to do it the right way. This piece goes here, and this piece goes here.”

My daughter was so upset that she threw her entire project in the trash. She didn’t want to take home the teacher’s interpretation of the assignment – she was proud of what she had created!

Thus, I look for teachers who encourage independent work instead of having every child create the exact same design. Also (speaking personally), teachers should respect the child as an individual – if the teacher wants to add something to the child’s artwork, he or she should ask the child for permission and respect the child’s answer. After all, art is all about individual expression and creativity!

Extra Stuff. Consider This:

After you’ve toured the studios, met teachers, and possibly observed a class or two, you might consider the “extras” that some studios provide:

• Low student/teacher ratio: When classes have a low student/teacher ratio, kids typically receive more individualized instruction and attention. They’ll feel more welcome in the class and receive more help when necessary.
• Snacks and beverages: Does the studio provide snacks and drinks during class or are parents allowed to supply them? Does the studio prohibit eating in the studio?
• Parking: Let’s face it: nobody wants to spend the first 10 minutes of every class fighting for a parking space! A studio should have ample parking to accommodate the students in the class, or point you to a nearby lot that does.
• Disabilities accommodations: Is the studio able to accommodate the needs of children who are deaf, blind, autistic or who have a physical or developmental disability?

Art classes can be a wonderful way to help your child develop creativity and critical thinking skills. Art can also give kids a way to express feelings and learn new skills. Ones that will help them not only in school, but throughout their lives. With attention, and a little extra planning, you’re  sure to find the perfect art class to help your young artist create beautiful masterpieces and lifelong memories (for more, see our Art Classes For Kids page).

Want a quick way to evaluate a children’s art studio? Print out this handy checklist:

The Best Art Classes For Kids Checklist

✓   Is the studio a franchise, independent or museum-based studio?

✓   What type of art medium does the studio specialize in or offer?

✓   What age range does the class cover?

✓   Is it a drop-off class or do parents participate with their children?

✓   Is the class taught by a professional artist?

✓   What is the cost of the class or a membership?

✓   Is the studio spacious and bright?

✓   Are the materials and space well-organized?

✓   Does the teacher encourage students to create their own artwork or does every student’s artwork look similar?

✓   Is the teacher’s personality and teaching style calm, engaging and patient?

✓   Does the teacher take the time to demonstrate and explain techniques in a kid-friendly way?

✓   Is the class engaging for the students? Do the students appear to enjoy being there?

✓   What is the student–teacher ratio?

✓   What extras are included (snacks, materials, art history lessons, etc.)?

✓   Is there ample parking?

✓   Can the studio accommodate any special needs/disabilities my child has?

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“When people ask me what equipment I use – I tell them my eyes”

It’s easy to get caught up in fancy equipment, but learning to see the world with the eye of an artist is what makes a real photographer.

Shoot What It Feels Like

“Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like.”

Do you have a favorite photograph? Have you ever wondered what made it better than other ones? It’s a good bet that it made you feel something. Next time you take a photograph of something, shoot what it feels like.

Be Excited!

“Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow.”

Once the photography bug bites you, there’s no turning back. There’s a world out there waiting for you to snap its picture. Go for it.

Photograph What You Love

“Only photograph what you love.”

When photographer Tim Walker said, “Only photograph what you love,” did he mean to stick to what’s familiar or only things that make you feel good? No. He meant that when you decide to take a picture, the subject should be something worth caring about. Otherwise, why do it? The best photographs come when you care a lot.

Have Fun

“Taking pictures is like tiptoeing into the kitchen late at night and stealing Oreo cookies.”

No, you don’t have to be a cookie thief to be a good photographer. But it probably helps. Some things like taking just the right picture sure do feel like you’re getting away with something.

Let It Take You

“I didn’t choose photography. Photography chose me.”

Some people feel almost born for photography. Others come to it bit by bit. If it feels like photography chose you, that’s great. But the point is, once you’ve found it, to let it take you places you’ve never been before.

Make It Special

“You don’t take a photograph. You make it.”

There are two kinds of photographs. The kind you snap for fun and the kind you do on purpose. Both are fine. What kind is your next photograph going to be?

Feel Your Power

“When I have a camera in my hand, I have no fear.”

So. Can a camera give you superpowers? No. By itself it can’t. But knowing how to use one can. There’s great power in getting good at something. And guess what? Getting good with your camera can help you change the world.

Want more photography quotes for kids? Have more to share? Let us know!

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