Art classes for kids

Contemporary artist Donald Jackson opens his studio to teach kids about fine art and cognitive development. His classes are organized by color and corresponding age groups. For instance, "Red," ages 2–3, focuses on scribbling and tactile exploration, teaching kids about the basics of drawing and painting. In "Green," kids ages 5–6 will keep their own sketchbook and discuss their work. Classes start at $125 and can be four- or eight-week sessions.

Serving little ones and teens, Hyde Park Art Center provides visual arts education to youth of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. Sign up for courses devoted to comics, darkroom photography, drawing and ceramics. Classes are offered in five- or 10-week sessions and run $190 and up. Specialized summer camps are available for $395 and up, and financial aid is available. 

With a variety of classes using literature-based curriculum, Old Town School of Folk Music has something to offer kids as young as 2 and as old as 13. The little ones can learn the art of scribbling, while the pre-teens can dabble in drawing comics. Most classes are offered once per week for eight weeks and go for $160–$256. 

These ceramic classes are for kids who love to get messy—with a purpose, of course! Younger kids can explore clay through building their favorite stories, while older kids (9 and up) can try their hand at throwing at the wheel. Classes are on rolling admission and start at $120.

This giant artist-filled warehouse offers some pretty unique kids classes for ages 2 and up from creating stepping stones and bird baths to targeting motor development and social skills through all-encompassing courses. Individual workshops start at $30 while multi-week programs start at $155. 

The focus here is hands-on art but with music appreciation infused into every session. Classes are geared toward children ages 1–12 and include a 3D workshop, siblings class, sketching at the museum and more. Classes start at $265 and typically run for four, eight or 10 weeks each.  

Where better for kids to learn about art than from a prestigious art school in conjunction with one of the best art museums in the country? The SAIC offers classes for kids ages 4–9 that are divided by age group and cover multiple art forms. Kids take frequent trips to the museum and create projects based on what they see there.

Creativity is key at this art studio. Younger kids can participate with a parent or caregiver in family art courses and a playdough play group. Morning and after-school classes are also available for the older set and include a variety of options for every interest. Session start at $75. 

All of the classes offered here have a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) component, something many kids start learning in preschool. And just because it's learning doesn't mean it can't be exciting with classes like "Gotta Craft 'Em All," focusing on hand-sewn toys, "World Piece," all about storytelling, and "AltMath AltArt," where kids are encouraged to apply math in art. Parents can buy individual classes or purchase a five-visit drop-in card for $95.