Are you certain that your son is the next Picasso or VanGogh? Maybe your daughter is ready to be the next Georgia O'Keefe? Or, does he or she simply loves to explore with paint, crayons, and clay? Although your child is still in preschool, he or she may be ready for a first art class experience.
Selecting a Type of Art Class
Not all art classes are equal in programming, cost, or instruction. This article helps to clarify some of the options that are available for young children. Not every geographic area has each of the options that will be discussed. Therefore, use this article as a general guide to direct your inquiry and decision making.
Museum Based Art Classes
Museum based art classes are great for children who might enjoy looking at art as well as making art. In these types of classes, you can generally expect that museum instructors will be utilizing the museums' art collection as part of the class. Be sure to ask first; it is always possible that art viewing explorations will not be part of a prechool aged class.
Classes taught within an art museum may be entirely gallery based or taught in a classroom/art studio.
If you are concerned about your child's ability to self-regulate around one of a kind art work, this type of class may not be a good fit. A young child who will be going into this rule-filled environment must be able to walk in a line, keep her hands to herself, follow directions, and use an inside voice.
Different museums offer somewhat different program options. Some offer a parent child class. This is an excellent way to introduce a very young child to the world of art, while having the comfort and companionship of a parent or other special adult. More formal class structures also exist at this age level. Before enrolling your child in one of these classes, make sure that he or she is able to separate comfortably. Additionally, some art museums offer drop in informal art making activities for the entire family.
Community Based Art Classes
Many community departments or recreation centers offer art classes for preschoolers. This type of class is a great choice for those who need or want to stay close to home. These types of classes are generally reasonably priced, and often offer a special discounted resident rate.
To find out more information on a community based class call your local recreation department or visit their website.
Art Schools and Centers
Another option is to enroll in a class offered through an art school or art center. Unlike a community center or recreation center that holds many different types of classes (e.g., basketball, karate, swimming, dance), an art center is focused on the visual arts.
An art school-based class may be a good fit for a child that shows an interest in art, but may not be able to control himself in an art museum setting.
Other Art Class Considerations
Some other considerations to make when selecting an appropriate class for a young child may include:
- Teacher qualifications: Look for arts educators with at least a college degree in the visual arts/fine arts, art history, and education.
- Siblings: Is there a class at the same time for an older sister or brother?
- Timing: This includes weekday vs. weekend classes, and time of day.
- The length of the class: Some children may not be able to sit for a two hour long class, but would be fine in a one hour class.
- Price: Look for resident or museum membership rates and discounts. Also ask if early bird enrollment discounts are offered.
There are numerous options for early childhood art classes in museums, communities, and art centers. Before making a decision call the class program staff with questions or research class specific websites to find the best fit for your child.
 |
