Choosing an Art Class for Your Child

As caring parents we search for the very best for our children. From sourcing perfectly fitting first shoes, to big decisions about schools, there are lots of choices we make on behalf of, and together with our children. Let’s talk about choosing a local Art Club, and finding a good fit Art Tutor for your budding artist. 

In the Reigate area, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by excellent education providers and plentiful opportunities for children’s enjoyment and learning outside school. When it comes to creative outlets for Art, there are several different options too. We love our town being a hub of Art activity (read about Inner Art Background), but it can feel a bit confusing… which to choose?…what should I look for?

At Inner Art we believe it matters, and parents' informed choice is key to enhancing and nurturing your child’s creativity and Art development (Inner Art Philosophy). As well as seeking testimonials and asking for recommendations on Facebook groups, here are some ideas for you to consider:

1. Environment & Space

Children with creative aptitudes can be sensitive to noise, light, space, textures and temperatures. Feeling comfortable within a space is fundamental to creativity.

• How much room do children have to move around and spread out when creating Artwork?
• Is there natural lighting, shade, as well as good artificial lighting for darker winter months?
• Are there a range of different learning spaces for different learners' needs?
• Is the entrance inviting and does the location add the right feel to your trip?
• Is there ventilation, heating, and ways to stay cool in Summer?
• Take a look around Inner Art Studio 

2) Resources & Equipment

Art Studio spaces differ so much! What is it that makes your child sing with excitement and happily get stuck in?

• Can you see an array of stimulating resources eg up to date visual displays, examples of finished and unfinished artwork and sketchbooks, intriguing still life objects, Art reference books and printed visuals, inviting array of Art materials, seaonal decoration, community projects?
• Is there a wide range of varied, well stocked and organised Art materials?
• Is there specialist Art equipment your child will benefit from eg kiln, easels, projector, drawing boards?
• What materials and equipment are included in your fees, and what will you be asked to provide?
• Is there secure space for 2D & 3D work storage, drying racks to ensure precious pieces safe?   

3) Interactions & Atmosphere

We hope the days of off-putting comments and exclusivity are so far in the past that wellbeing, enjoyment and progress are in abundance wherever your child goes!

• How does your child feel before, during and after a visit or class? Listen carefully - children can be very insightful!
• How does a session begin, progress and end?
• Are there understood guidelines about phone use, topics for conversations, and ways to respect others?
• Do most verbal exchanges with teachers and peers uplift and energize your child?
• How much help is given, and how much is independence promoted?

4) Practicalities

As parents we can feel like we need a time machine and transporter to fulfill our children’s schedules! This is a big one for everyone’s peace of mind.

• Is the location easily accessible with free / close-by parking?
• Do class times fit your schedules and your child’s energy patterns?
• Is there easy to access toilet facilities, coat / bag storage, and waiting space for parents?
• What happens in the case of tutor absence, or missed sessions?
• Are there a range of classes at weekdays, weekends, and in half term and holidays?

5) Ethos and Philosophy

Organisations and individuals naturally share ways of thinking. Depending on how important ‘schools of thought’ are to you, you could dig a little deeper.

• What ideas and values are promoted within the establishment both explicitly and implied?
• Does advertising and imagery appeal to your expectations of Art education and ideas of creativity?
• What messages do you pick up from social networks / websites?
• Is there a style of artwork that is dominant or preferred? Can you view a gallery? 

6) Policies & Safeguarding

We want children's safety and well-being prioritised. Checking this element can help with your peace of mind, and give reassurance about your customer rights.

• What policies are in place about taking and sharing photos?
• What happens in the case of illness, absence, poor weather?
• How does drop off and collection work?
• How is your confidential data collected / stored?
• What happens in the case of fire, or medical emergency?

7) Opportunities & Experience

Whilst parents are often happy to find a cosy creative space for the ‘here and now’, others are keen to consider future options, and a bigger progressive journey.

• Is there SEN expertise within the organisation, and experience in working with different types of learners?
• Are there opportunities for community projects, special activity days, Art Camps, Art exhibitions to view / enter, new ventures?
• Are there opportunities for your child to benefit from connections to other Art establishments and create contacts eg for work experience, portfolio entries?
• Are there a range of services to cater for different stages of your child’s development into young adulthood?
• Is there a range of expertise within the organisation to cover different Art skills in a range of creative fields?
• What provision is made for Homeschoolers and GCSE / A level Art?
• What experience do tutors have in Art workplaces & education, and with children?

So a fair few elements to take into consideration, or leave here! Just as Art classes vary, all children are unique, parents are individuals, and families are diverse in their expectations. The more closely the values of your Art Club or Art Tuition provider align with your family values and hopes for your child’s education, the more likely your child is to find fulfillment and enjoyment in their own personal Art journey.