For families of neurodivergent children, finding inclusive programs can be a challenge. West Windsor Arts is aiming to change that with two new no-cost arts classes that focus on creativity, expression, and inclusion.
As part of the Happy Hands Studio, Theater Explorers and Color Creatives will be open to kids 8 to 15 who have special needs.
Both classes will have no tuition fee, and will be taught by a professional teaching artist with the support of a paraprofessional.
“Our goal is to create a welcoming, supportive and joyful space where every student feels safe to express themselves,” says Aylin Green, executive director of West Windsor Arts. “We want students to have the freedom to participate in ways that work best for them.”
Theater Explorers is a seven-session acting and improv program for kids ages 8 to 13, held Tuesday afternoons beginning January 20, from 4:15 to 5:15 pm. There will be theater games, guided monologues, scene practice, character exploration, and storytelling.
Color Creatives is a five-session, one-hour painting and drawing class for teens ages 12 to 15, that will meet on Saturdays at 10:15 am as of January 24. Students will learn the color wheel, experiment with warm and cool palettes, and discovering how artists use color to communicate ideas.
“Both classes focus on positive experiences, self-expression and fun, not perfection,” says teaching artist Jessica Benvenuti. “Even students who are hesitant often surprise themselves with how much they enjoy it, so I always encourage families to give it a try.”
The funding comes from a grant from the Capitol County Children’s Collaborative.
For more information or to register, email info@westwindsorarts.org.
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Read More:
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