Escort your Artist Class

What to Expect

CLASS STRUCTURE / PACE: This class is open-ended and process-focused. We set up four project stations, including sensory-based activities, at toddler-friendly tables, a large round standing height table, and a giant wall. Two teachers will greet you with a quick overview of the projects, then you and your child are free to explore at your own pace. We’ll be on hand to assist, inspire, refresh materials, and engage with the kids. No need to arrive early—your little one will likely be eager to dive right in!

We design projects with materials that inspire creativity, without a “right or wrong” outcome. For example, an owl collage might be suggested, but older kids may create something that resembles an owl in their own way, while toddlers will focus on exploring shapes and colors. The goal is to let them create at their own pace—whether they finish the whole project or focus on one element they enjoy. We gently suggest you avoid guiding too much or doing something for them; it’s best to let them follow their own process!

OUR GOALS: We create fun, hands-on activities that help develop fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, language, decision-making, social skills, and an awareness of colors, shapes, textures, and patterns. Through painting, gluing, arranging, and mixing, kids also learn to make connections and socialize by taking turns and sharing.

YOUR ROLE: Every child has different temperaments and attention spans, so it’s normal if they don’t want to sit still or need a break. As long as they’re not having a meltdown, they’re likely still processing and absorbing! Encourage, cheer them on, model how to use materials (without doing it for them), and help build their vocabulary. If they lose interest, gently re-engage. For kids 2.5-3, try more challenging prompts like “How many circles did you paint?” or “What happens if you mix yellow and blue?” to spark their curiosity. We’ll be there to assist!

SAFETY

All materials in our toddler class are non-toxic, but it’s common for sensory-seeking kids to touch or taste things. While a sip of paint or nibbling on an oil pastel won’t harm them, always supervise to prevent choking hazards.

When sitting on our small stools, grab an extra one to sit next to them for stability—don’t leave them unattended, as they can easily fall if they kneel or stand on the stool.

TIPS

The biggest challenge with toddlers is keeping their attention and engagement. They may not have the focus for one activity for 45 minutes, but too many choices can shorten their attention span even more.

Avoid rushing them by asking, “Are you done?” before they’re ready. If they lose interest quickly, encourage them to keep going with prompts like, “You haven’t used the green paint” or “Can you add three circles?” And sometimes, a quick chase around the studio is just what they need—it’s all part of the process!

CLOTHING

Art can get messy! While everything we use is “washable,” it doesn’t always mean it won’t stain. Aprons and t-shirts are available, but many kids refuse to wear them, so old play clothes are best— for both of you!

Expect your child to be bothered by messy hands unless they’ve had prior experience with art materials. This is normal, as they’re used to wiping off dirt or food. Encourage them to embrace the mess, and if they ask to clean up, gently distract them with another activity. We have washcloths available, and while it’s fine to wash up, be mindful—too many trips to the sink can turn into a fun distraction!

TAKING ARTWORK HOME

Be sure to clean out some room in your trunk to take your artwork home each week!   A big part of the joy of creating for this age is getting to show off their work!  You’ll be filled with so much joy to see how proud they are of themselves, and you can celebrate their accomplishments in a positive and encouraging way by displaying their art at home!