If you’re looking for fun, hands-on, screen-free family activities (and really, who isn’t?), then consider crafting. Whether it’s pottery or sculpting, candle- or jewelry-making, origami or papier-mache, or another sort of craft, each encourages creative expression, invites community, builds skills and offers the simple satisfaction of a finished product, often in one sitting.
The crafting concept may evoke fond memories from your child’s early years or even your own. Who didn’t enjoy making — and often gifting — macaroni necklaces and painted picture frames? Those creative pursuits frequently go by the wayside as children age, especially for kids who don’t consider themselves “artsy.” Fortunately, neither you nor your child needs to be a budding Rodin or Picasso to enjoy the many benefits of crafting.
Embrace Urban Artistry
YAY Clay! in Philadelphia was founded on the idea that clay is for everyone, and its enormous studio on Amber Street joyfully celebrates clay, creativity and all things Philly. The studio offers one-time Clay Dates (two hours on a project), eight-week courses and private events. Children are most welcome at the studio, but 10 is the recommended age for starting on the pottery wheel.
According to General Manager Alex Kachenko, “Classes at YAY Clay! take the pressure off parents by providing structure, professional guidance and a creative outlet that the whole family can enjoy together.”
Kachenko adds, “We’ve seen adults and kids who came in uncertain leave with a finished piece they made themselves and a confidence that’s hard to come by. That moment, when someone realizes they actually made something, is one of the best parts of what we do.”
Small Town, Big Imagination
Located just off the main road in downtown Haddonfield, New Jersey, the nonprofit Markeim Art Center (MAC) has been welcoming crafters for more than 70 years. There’s a cozy studio for pottery, as well as a wide range of arts classes. According to Executive Director Megan York Parker, “The beauty of our center is that people of all ages and backgrounds can attend classes here, whether a one-time offering or a series, and become part of our Markeim community.”
The MAC is both inclusive and family-friendly. Parker points to the School’s Out camps as “something we’re most proud of, offering local families a full day of arts education in small group settings, led by local teachers and working artists.” Another example is the MAC’s Artful Beginnings program for toddlers, which promotes fine motor development and artistic expression under the direction of a trained art therapist.
Claydreaming in the Suburbs
Outside the Lines, a warm and welcoming storefront art studio in Hamilton, New Jersey, is the latest chapter in owner Danielle Ingeri’s impressive career in arts education.
The studio’s Try It Nights and Open Studio days are ideal for craft-curious kids and families, as both offer opportunities to complete a project in one visit. Those who wish to further their artistic ambitions can take classes in ceramics (wheel and hand building) and acrylic and watercolor painting.
One of the best things about Outside the Lines: Everyone gets the rules and tools to express their creativity. There are no time constraints other than the closing of the studio. Ingeri adds, “Art is never to be rushed. It is meant to be explored and enjoyed.”
Creativity Plus a Little Clean-up
Some crafts require specific equipment, such as a throwing wheel and kiln for pottery, and provide an excellent reason to visit these or other nearby studios. However, many crafts can be done at your kitchen table, often with materials you already have on hand or can pick up at local stores.
Whether on your own or with instruction and inspiration from an experienced artist, explore, get a little messy and enjoy!
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