“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” This quote by Pablo Picasso sums up the reality for many people. Children naturally gravitate towards art when they are small, whether playing in the sandbox or coloring yet another picture for the refrigerator.
In today’s society, however, those impulses are soon quashed. Video game consoles, smart phones, and tablets compete for attention during leisure time, while studying consumes the school day and long hours into the evening. Yet research has consistently found that art is crucial to kids’ development, and an early love for artistic expression can last a lifetime.
According to a variety of studies, artistic expression improves creativity and problem solving abilities. It builds such cognitive skills as long-term memory, literacy, and academic engagement. Art gives children confidence, helps them work out their emotions and daily struggles in a safe and healthy way, and even promotes social skills. Children with regular exposure to an artistic outlet are calmer, happier, and better adjusted overall.
What About Art in Schools?
At one time, schools recognized the inherent benefits of art, and taught art classes at every level. Today, however, budget cuts, high stakes testing, and constant pressure to “achieve” have pushed art, along with other so-called “soft classes” such as P.E. and theater, out the door of many schools. There is a movement to bring back these classes in some areas, but as of 2016, it has yet to gain much of a foothold in many parts of the country.
What Is a Painting Class?
An artistic revolution is occurring, as people of all ages begin to recognize the benefits of adding artistic expression to their own lives. But today’s painting classes are a far cry from what you might remember from your own childhood. Inside a comfortable studio, with all materials provided, you and your child will be gently guided by an expert as you create your own copy of a masterpiece.
What Is a Family Painting Day?
Children are welcome to join in regular painting classes, provided that they are mature enough to enjoy adult conversation. However, at The Paint Place, we find that younger kids generally prefer the more child-oriented family painting days, held on weekday mornings.
On family painting days, parents and children can create their artworks individually or together, with fees charged per canvas rather than per person. Although the minimum age is usually set at 3 to 5, depending on the complexity of the painting, this is a guideline rather than a hard and fast rule. If you have a slightly younger child who is mature for his or her age, feel free to sign up.
Can We Have a Painting Birthday Party or Special Event?
Another excellent option for kids is a private party (minimum numbers apply). We can host kids-only events or multigenerational gatherings, either at our studio or at your choice of venue. We can work with you to decorate our studio, and to select just the right painting for your group. Private events are popular, so be sure to book early for the best chances of getting your desired date.
Art plays a vital role in child development, enhancing creativity and self-confidence, as well as cognitive and academic skills. Yet it is becoming increasingly difficult for kids to find outlets for their artistic expression. To help your child connect with his or her inner artist, we invite you to sign up for a class, family painting day, or private event at The Paint Place. Our professional artists provide a low-stress opportunity for adults and children of all ages to express their thoughts and emotions in a safe and healthy environment.