Fostering creativity helps children develop mentally, socially, and emotionally. Research indicates that creating art may boost young children's ability to analyze and problem-solve in myriad ways.

As kids manipulate a paintbrush, their fine motor skills improve. By counting pieces and colors, they learn the basics of math. When children experiment with materials, they dabble in science. Most important perhaps, when kids feel good while they are creating, art helps boost self-confidence. And children who feel able to experiment and to make mistakes feel free to invent new ways of thinking, which extends well beyond the craft room.

While we know that toddlerhood provides a valuable window of opportunity for kids to learn and develop the skills they need to succeed in life, sometimes it's easier said than done at home.  

Join us!

Recess' Mini Messy Art is a great introduction to sensory play in a teacher led environment.  Parents or caregivers along with 9-18mo olds join us for a sweet creative class designed to stimulate the senses and introduce new experiences.  Sign up below!

Our very popular Sensory Lab (child led stations) is open for drop-in play several times a week, too.  These open format stations are great for checking out new activities and revisiting old ones.  Stations rotate from play dough, painting on plexiglass, digging with rainbow sand to experimenting with light.  Open to members and anyone with a day-pass.

Early art experiences also teach kids to think openly, create new meaning, be more tolerant of others’ differences, and gives them the courage to take risks.

We hope  you'll join us to encourage art appreciation in your young child, and make the most out of those crucial learning years.

In the meantime, check out our favorite resources for art with toddlers:

•  Primary Art: It's the Process, Not the Product (one of our FAVORITE books!)
• Tinker Lab Book
• The Artful Parent