Frequently Asked Questions
How is The Messy Artist different from other art programs?
Research has shown that children learn best through play and exploring their environment. Our program is built around that philosophy, with projects are open-ended and encourage children to learn through the journey of art. At The Messy Artist, children are their own decision makers about their creations. This philosophy builds self-esteem and creative learners. Throughout their journey here, children learn new skills, art techniques, and use a variety of art mediums. Join us and see for yourself what makes us special!
How does The Messy Artist program differ as my child gets older?
Our core philosophy stays the same throughout the ages although our program does grows and change with your children! Classes become more structured as kids get older. Starting in our classes for 2 1/2 year olds, we do a project together as a group where the teacher does a brief lesson. The lessons become more involved as kids get older. For students in Kindergarten – 5ht grade we offer instruction and guidance in age appropriate projects. Expanded learning of color theory, composition, and perspective are incorporated into our projects. Concepts such as realism, abstract, and surrealism and many more are explored.
What is the role of the caregiver in a caregiver and me class?
Enhance your child’s experience in class by remembering to play, play, & play. Young children learn best through play & imitation. Your active participation is key to your children learning, growing & in all aspects of development. Your children look to you as role models. If you are having fun painting & creating then your children will too. Some socialization amongst adults is fine & part of the fun for all. However, your children need your guidance. The more you put into your class the more your children will get out of it.
Will I get a class confirmation?
Yes, you will receive an email confirmation before the start of class. In addition, if you did not get into your first choice class you will get a pone call.
Will I get a confirmation of the Mini-camp I signed up for?
No, however, you will get a phone call if you did not get in.
If I miss a class can I make it up?
Yes, you are entitled to two make-ups per ten week session. You can sign up for your make-ups in class using our ‘make-up book’. All make-ups must be done during the current session and is based upon availability. We don’t want to over crowd our classes.
My older child is home from school today, can I bring him?
Yes, however, you will need to sign up your child in advance. Please call ahead to see if there is space available. There is a $20 fee for participating siblings.
I have an infant, can I bring her along?
Yes, non-participating siblings are always welcome at no additional charge
I have a friend or relative visiting from out of town, can I bring him?
Yes, you will need to sign up the child in advance. Please call ahead to see if there is space available. There is a $20 fee for visitors in the caregiver & me classes. The fee for a visitor in a drop-off class is $25.
I have twins, can I attend class with just one adult?
Absolutely! The classroom is a well contained and easy to manage with two children. The teachers are always available to help as needed.
Is there a sibling discount?
There is a $20 sibling discount for the Fall, Winter and Spring sessions. The sibling discount will be applied for the 2nd and 3rd child child signed up for any combination of classes in amongst all of our programs. The sibling discount can’t be combined with any other discount offers.
What’s the class size? How many teachers are in a class?
The maximum class sizes are 12-14 children and two teachers in each class.
I have a child with special needs, can he / she join the class?
We warmly welcome all children with special needs into all of our classes. It always helps when a parent shares information about their child so that we can make appropriate accommodations. For our drop – off classes, we will need additional staff to be able to appropriately care for and teach your child. Therefore, there will be an additional fee to cover the additional staff. The fee will be determined based on how long the class is.
Can I get a refund?
If you cancel before the first class of the session, you will be refunded the cost of the entire session, less the $25 non-refundable administrative fee. Once classes have begun, refunds will be in the form of a Messy Artist Credit, and will be pro-rated based on the number of classes left in the session. The Messy Artist Credit can be used for any future class, workshop or party, for any child in your family.
How will I be notified of emergency class cancellations and snow days?
In the event that The Messy Artist must close due to unforeseen circumstances, a message will be posted on our homepage and on our phone by 8am. You will be entitled to an additional make-up class that can be used during the current session or during our drop-in and play days.
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