Art Lessons

These are art LESSONS — elective enrichment classes focused on creativity, technique, and visual expression. Art therapy is a separate mental health profession provided by clinicians credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board within a therapeutic relationship. We do not provide art therapy. If you're looking for art therapy specifically, we can point you toward credentialed providers in the area.

Art lessons can be included as elective enrichment in a parent-directed home education plan. Please review the current Step Up home education instructional program guidance for how electives fit within your scholarship year, and verify any scholarship documentation needs with Step Up directly.

We welcome students across a wide age range. Younger children start with exploratory, play-based projects that build fine motor skills and confidence. Older students move into more structured technique, composition, and portfolio development.

Most class fees include the basic supplies used during sessions (paper, paint, brushes, clay). For students who want to continue practicing at home, we provide a recommended supply list and can point you to budget-friendly options.

Both. Our lessons are structured around real artistic skills — observation, technique, color, composition — while keeping the experience joyful and exploratory. Children who stay with lessons build real portfolios and real confidence as young artists.

Research reviews, including work from the National Endowment for the Arts, describe connections between arts participation in early childhood and social and emotional benefits. These reviews are not guarantees for any one child — but consistent creative practice does build skills, confidence, and habits that translate beyond the studio.

Yes. Many families pair elective art lessons with therapy services like speech or occupational therapy. Lessons and therapy serve different purposes and are scheduled independently.