Being academically focused would not future-proof our children but broadening the curriculum to include creative subjects will definitely help them develop on many fundamental levels. Allowing children to enjoy the process of creation, especially artistically, can reap big rewards down the road.
Why wait to unleash your child’s innate creativity?
Lessons at MY Craft Studio, Damansara Jaya go beyond doodling with crayons and painting with fingers. From tots to young teens, aged 3 to 12 years, MY Craft Studio creates an environment that is open-ended and non-competitive, allowing young artists the freedom to explore their own potential, while building a strong repertoire of skills and techniques through a plethora of craft sessions. Projects encourage children to express themselves, enjoy the process of making art and show appreciation for world culture.
Within this space is a safe and cheery setting that allows for freedom within boundaries. A harmonious classroom community and supportive guidance from a team of passionate instructors provide the optimal learning environment to foster creativity, and allow children to explore, experiment and develop one self, all while having fun.
Core Craft Programs
Drop your kids off to enjoy Friday evenings or Saturdays creating at the studio. Whether your child is an absolute beginner or a seasoned artist, talented instructors here can nurture and elevate every artistic skill level through the following two programs:
i) Nursery Art Course (3 to 6 years)
Weekly 90-minute classes are offered, giving children the tools and expertise to become masters in craft creation. Children will work with a wide range of 2 and 3-dimensional materials such as felt, polystyrene, clay, yarn, wood, plaster and crepe paper. The curriculum is designed and implemented in thematic units, exploring the content of works in the context of “Save the Earth”, “Conservation of Ocean”, “Go Green”, “World Peace”, “Love Animal” and more. Previous projects include yarn balls, custom jigsaw puzzles, cello film lanterns, embellished eggs and wreaths. Lessons are committed to nurturing development through supportive elements like stories, videos projected on a large screen and an abundance of visuals. Plentiful opportunities allow children to explore the wonders of cross-disciplinary learning with music- and science-art activities. The words “I am bored” will never make way into the studio.
Modules tap on the concept of the Montessori method of education, helping children develop an appreciation of art during their formative years and exposing them to opportunities that allow them to reach their full potential. Aside from the technical skills, lessons cultivate critical thinking skills by providing hands-on learning materials, lay the foundations for problem solving, develop strong social and communication skills through interactive learning, and strengthen fine motor skills. Combined, they form the cornerstone of Montessori learning.
Class sizes are kept small, allowing for plenty of individual attention to ensure children learn at their own pace and level.
ii) Multicultural Craft Course (7 to 12 years)
Sate your wanderlust and get a taste of what every country has to offer minus the costly airfares and lengthy travel times. It is pretend play meets reality. On the walls are the iconic bear murals, spotted across all studios under the umbrella of MY Art Studio, painted to resemble an airline cabin.
The travel experience is made complete with a pilot uniform, and a craft kit that includes a passport, travel guide and sticker book. This course brings children across the world to Egypt, United Kingdom, India, Finland, France, Russia, and this is just to name a small portion of the countries covered. Each project reflects the culture or geography of a different country, as well as fascinating facts and images to help bring imagination to life.
Examples of projects include Egyptian cat statue, French cave painting, Russian matryoshka doll, Scottish sporran and Irish leprechaun foam art. Children gain exposure to a wide range of art media and techniques including sewing, creating faux stained glass, assembling a collage and making mosaic pieces. The multifaceted lessons develop children’s creativity, visual literacy, critical-thinking skills, self-esteem, and express appreciation for other cultures.
Kansai Paint
Though lessons foster self-expression through a myriad of art media, a special mention has to be given to the type of paint used for the craft projects. Painting instructions are paired with premium grade emulsions that are made by one of the world’s top ten paint manufacturers – Kansai Paint Co. Ltd. The studio uses special formulations, namely PAR Silk which gives a luxurious smooth finish.
Special Events and Holiday Camps
Artistic development and creative fun are not limited to the lessons in the core programs. The studio celebrates many festivals and special events that feature an eclectic mix of activities. Past event highlights include bento making for Mother’s Day, monster slime crafting and spooky costume parading for Halloween, and henna application for Deepavali. The event calendar is filled to the brim including school holiday periods. Children are engaged in nothing short of bore-busting, experimental and interactive fun. Activities range from cupcake decorating and play dough making to wood block art and terrarium art.
The International Children’s Art Award
Opportunities to further fuel children’s artistic enthusiasm are furnished by the invitation to participate in an international art and craft competition – Golden Bear Award – organized by MY Art Studio. Efforts from MY Craft Studio, Damansara Jaya scored them a fourth placement in the craft category. This makes an invaluable motivational tool for young budding artists. Win or lose, it forms a wonderful platform for children to showcase their creative abilities, evaluate their techniques and move on to become better, stronger artists.
Parents, even if you are planning your children’s education on a shoestring budget, appreciate the importance of art education in developing a child’s brain.
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