An early start in the arts for kids in Laguna Beach

Known for its vibrant art scene and art events, Laguna Beach is the perfect place for kids to get an early start in the arts. From scribbling with crayons to crafting masterpieces, children naturally use art as a means of expression. Apart from being a fun and colorful pastime, engaging in artistic activities offers a wealth of benefits that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Why Art is Important for Children

Art plays a crucial role in the development of children, particularly in their early years. When kids dive into painting, collage-making, or any creative activity, they’re not just having fun—they’re building important life skills. Here’s how:

• Art encourages creativity and imagination.

  Art helps kids use their creativity and imagination to turn ideas into real projects. Every art activity starts with a spark, which allows them to dream and then figure out how to make it happen. While creating, kids not only improve their artistic skills but their logical thinking abilities as well. Art uses both sides of the brain, which helps kids develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

  Creativity also grows when kids can explore and experiment with different materials. When kids are given various tools and allowed to create freely, their imagination can thrive.

• Art enhances organizational abilities.

  Another benefit that art brings to a child’s development is the growth of their planning skills. When engaged in art activities, children learn and practice concepts like planning, memory, self-control, as well as critical thinking. Kids often imagine what they want to create before starting and then follow their plan. This process helps them think logically and improves their concentration. As they draw and paint they learn about color, shape, and size while solving problems and making decisions.

• Art improves motor skills.

  Art-related activities play an important role in improving motor skills in children. Simple, creative activities like painting, drawing, and crafting offer a fun and engaging way to enhance dexterity. For example, painting with a brush not only mimics the grip used for pencils but also provides a more exciting and less rigid experience than traditional handwriting exercises. This practice helps develop hand-eye coordination as children learn to mimic lines, shapes, and patterns or even create their own styles.

  Engaging in these activities allows kids to build control and strength in their hands, making everyday tasks easier as they grow. Other art-related activities like cutting with scissors, finger painting, or weaving yarn, will enhance their fine motor skills which are essential for precision.

• Art lets kids express themselves.

  Art provides children with a unique way to express themselves, allowing them to make decisions and communicate their thoughts and emotions without the fear of being right or wrong. Unlike traditional schoolwork, art doesn’t come with the pressure of grades or strict guidelines. While core subjects are important, it can be argued it is equally important to allow imagination and expression to run unhindered. Even with just a few rules, kids have the freedom to create whatever they imagine.

• Art connects kids to different cultures.

  Art has a unique way of connecting children to different people and cultures. Since art is a universal language that transcends boundaries, kids don’t need any special background knowledge to appreciate it. When they engage with art, they become curious about the styles, mediums, and subjects that other people use in their creative expressions. Whether it’s from a different time period or a culture halfway around the world, kids not only learn about other cultures and concepts, but they also learn to embrace different cultures and the myriad ways humans express themselves.

Art in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach offers a vibrant and inspiring environment to get kids excited about art. With over 100 art galleries, artist studios, and multiple art events throughout the year, this coastal city has earned its reputation as a well-loved art colony. The city’s history as a mecca for the arts dates all the way back to the late 1800s. This creative legacy continues today, making it the perfect environment for children to explore and engage with the arts. From visiting museums to participating in hands-on art sessions, kids can immerse themselves in a range of activities catered to various ages and learning styles.

Here’s what Laguna Beach has to offer:

Studios

• ARTime Barro

  Located in one of the top art villages in Southern California, ARTime Barro offers the perfect pottery experience for kids. The studio, which has a branch in Laguna Beach, is fully equipped with everything young artists need to explore the basics of wheel-throwing and hand-building. ARTime Barrio caters to children ages 5-14 and offers one-time sessions that last 45 minutes. Kids have the opportunity to create a variety of pieces like ceramic pots, cups, or bowls. After creating their pieces in the initial session, students can return to glaze their creations.

Schools and organizations

• LOCA Arts Education

  This nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing high-quality art education to people of all ages, including kids. With over 30 years of service to the Laguna Beach community, LOCA offers a wide range of art workshops tailored for children through partnerships with local schools, libraries, and community centers.

  Founded in 1992 as a response to cuts in art education, LOCA was created by artists Mada Leach and Anne England to ensure that students would continue to have access to quality art programs. Today, their “Art Escapes” classes are a testament to that mission, offering hands-on art experiences for everyone. For children, these classes provide a nurturing space to experiment with different art forms, guided by professional artists who are passionate about arts education.

Museums

• Laguna Art Museum

  Laguna Art Museum (LAM) is not only a hub of culture for Laguna Beach but also a fantastic place for kids to immerse themselves in the world of California art. As the longest-established art museum in California, LAM offers a range of art opportunities specifically designed for children.

  One of the highlights is the LAM Kids Summer Day Camp Series, which provides an engaging and educational experience for children ages 6-12. These camps take place on Mondays when the museum is closed to the public, giving kids exclusive access to explore and create in a spacious and interactive environment. Guided by professional teaching artists, each camp has a unique theme and is a wonderful chance for kids to dive into imaginative and lively summer activities while learning new art techniques.

  For those looking to extend the summer fun, LAM also offers the Kids’ Summer Mini Camp Series. These two-hour sessions in the afternoon add to the day camp experience, allowing kids to continue their creative journey in the museum’s unique setting. With the guidance of skilled instructors, children can further explore their artistic talents and develop new skills, whether it’s through painting, sculpture, or mixed media.

• Museum of Make Believe

  The Museum of Make Believe offers a magical art experience for kids that combines imagination, storytelling, and visual arts. Created by a team of artists and visionaries, this enchanting museum is dedicated to preserving the timeless art of storytelling in an immersive environment. Its inaugural exhibit, “Ghost Stories & Fairy Tales,” transports visitors to a world of magic and mystery, where children can encounter a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, miniatures, and sculptures.

  The Museum of Make Believe has various ticket options to enhance the experience. The Stardust Experience allows kids to discover treasures inside a golden dragon’s egg, including a “tomorrow stone” gem and a fortune prize. For a more immersive journey, the VIP Stardust Experience includes a treasure hunter’s map and a beautifully illustrated storybook to take home. Kids can also opt for add-ons like the Treasure Hunt Map, leading them on an interactive adventure throughout their visit.

Camps

• Art Classes for Kids at the Laguna Beach Library

  The Laguna Beach Library provides kids with an opportunity to explore their creativity through its “Art Classes for Kids” program. Held in the Children’s Wing every Thursday afternoon, these classes run from April through June and are taught by professional artists from the LOCA Arts Education organization. These sessions, which are free of charge, introduce kids to a variety of art techniques and projects.

  Each session offers a new art adventure, allowing children to experiment with different mediums and techniques while building confidence in their creative abilities. Whether your child is an experienced artist or just starting to explore their artistic side, the Laguna Beach Library’s program provides a welcoming and inspiring environment.

• Sawdust Art for Youth

  Sawdust Art for Youth is an enriching way for kids to experience the artistic spirit of Laguna Beach. Held on the iconic Festival grounds, Sawdust Art Classes allow children to dive into various mediums like printmaking, painting, ceramics, and mixed media. With no prior experience required, kids can jump right into the fun, guided by experienced artists who are passionate about teaching their craft. Sawdust provides all the materials needed, so all students need to bring is their enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

  For those looking to add some artistic excitement to the school year, Sawdust’s After-School Art Program offers classes during school terms and breaks. This program is perfect for kids who want to explore different art forms or deepen their skills over time. In addition to regular classes, Sawdust also hosts Art Camps during school holidays, giving children the chance to immerse themselves in various art techniques and mediums.

Events

• Laguna Beach Festival of Arts

  The Laguna Beach Festival of Arts is a summer art event that features exhibits from over 140 Orange County artists. Children and their families can explore a wide range of art forms, from gorgeous paintings to intricate sculptures. One of the highlights for young art enthusiasts is the Junior Art Exhibit, which showcases the incredible talent of children across Orange County. The festival is not just about viewing art—it’s also about creating. Kids can participate in free art workshops that cover fun activities like scratch art, printmaking, and crafting.

  In addition to the art-making activities, the Festival of Arts offers a host of other family-friendly attractions. Kids and their families can enjoy free outdoor music concerts, and picnic areas where visitors can either purchase food on-site or bring their own, and enjoy their picnic in wide open spaces.

• Laguna Art-A-Fair

  Welcoming all artists from around the globe, the Laguna Art-A-Fair is a summer art festival unlike any other. Kids have the chance to explore the festival’s expansive outdoor space, which is filled with breathtaking artwork, photographs, ceramics, sculptures, and more. Apart from experiencing a variety of artistic styles and cultures, kids also have the opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their creative work, and find inspiration for their own art projects.

  The Laguna Art-A-Fair also offers hands-on opportunities for kids to explore their creativity through a variety of creative workshops. Special events like dance lessons and themed activities add to the fun, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Sawdust Art Festival

  The Sawdust Art Festival is another Laguna Beach art event that offers an array of art opportunities for kids to explore their creativity. Known for its magical atmosphere, the festival brings together over 180 artists, making it a perfect destination for families looking to immerse themselves in the world of art. Kids can enjoy hands-on experiences through artist demos and art classes, engaging with various art forms in a fun and interactive way.

  During the festival season, over 500 art classes are offered at three demo booths, covering a wide range of arts and crafts suited for all ages. These classes provide kids with the chance to learn from Sawdust artists themselves.

• Family Art Day

  Family Art Day at the Festival of Arts offers an array of animal-themed activities that promise a fun-filled day for kids and families. Every July, the festival grounds transform into a wildlife haven where kids can come face-to-face with fascinating creatures. The Festival’s Art Center, in particular, has hands-on, animal-inspired art activities for kids. They can dive into special animal sculpting classes, create their own wildlife-themed crafts, and participate in interactive workshops.

Laguna Beach as a Canvas for Your Kids

There are so many more in place and events in Laguna Beach where your kids can develop their artistic skills and sensibilities. A few more suggestions are Kidcreate Studio in Dana Point, The Artist Lab and Aspire Art Studios in Irvine, and The Art Studio in Westminster. In Laguna Beach art is all around, permeating the air and enriching the lives of everyone around.

See What Else Laguna Beach Has to Offer

When it comes to family-friendly places by the sea, there’s no better city to live in than Laguna Beach. Whether you’re exploring art events, enjoying outdoor adventures, or looking for top-rated schools, Laguna Beach has it all.

If you’re considering making this incredible city your home, Shauna and Leita Covington are here to help you every step of the way. With their local expertise, unmatched service, and deep understanding of Laguna Beach’s real estate market, this mother-daughter team will guide you in finding the perfect home that fits your family’s lifestyle.

Reach out to Shauna and Leita by calling 949.412.8088 or 949.395.3037 or leave a message here and find out more about your options in Laguna Beach.