Creative Playdate Program: Overview
Step into our art-filled play program in Stockbridge, MA, where imagination thrives for elementary students! We spark new ideas and offer a joyful space for kids to explore art in many forms, from sculpture and watercolors to bookmaking and more. This Second Nature Arts program nurtures each child’s natural curiosity through play-based learning, hands-on art activities, and recreational experiences. Each day, kids will connect with friends, share skills, and celebrate their creativity in a supportive, inspiring environment. Weather permitting, we embrace the outdoors with active play and interaction with our beautiful surroundings. With exposure to art, nature, and community, the possibilities are endless!
2025 FALL SESSION
SEPTEMBER 15 - DECEMBER 13
AGES 5-10 & 11-14 (Junior Art Mentor Program)
***See Program Themes Below***
After School Program:
Mondays - Tuesdays - Wednesdays | 3:45-5:15pm
Special Art Programs:
Saturday Mornings: 10/4, 11/8, 12/13 | 11:00am-1:00pm
Half Days: 9/17, 10/22, 12/10 | 12:30-3:30pm -OR- 12:30-5:15pm
Holiday Full Days: 10/13, 11/4, 11/11, 11/25 | 9:15am-3:15pm
Winter Break Mini Camp: Dates TBA | 9:15am-3:15pm
Location: 4 Main St, Stockbridge, MA
Mondays (9/15-12/8): LEGENDS & LORE (12 weeks, $360)
Step into a world where myths come alive and new stories are born. Inspired by ancient gods, lost kingdoms, and epic adventures, you’ll invent your own characters, treasures, and maps to unknown lands. Through drawing, painting, and sculpture, you’ll bring your ideas to life while weaving them into your own legendary tale.
(*There will be no regular program on 10/13. Holiday Program Available!)
Tuesdays (9/16-12/9): MASTERPIECE MASH-UPS (10 weeks, $300)
Turn famous art upside down and inside out as you mix together ideas from iconic works and your own imagination. You’ll learn about artists from around the globe and then explore color, texture, and composition in inventive ways. By session’s end, you’ll have a lively gallery of playful, mixed-media creations.
(*There will be no regular program on 11/4, 11/11, & 11/25. Holiday Programs Available!)
Wednesdays (9/17-12/10) TIME CAPSULES (12 weeks, $360)
Collect the colors, dreams, and stories that make you unique! Each week, you’ll dive into a playful new prompt about your favorite people, places, and activities. Then, through drawing, stitching, collaging, and more, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind book that’s all about you! (*There will be no regular program on 11/26.)
Saturdays: ALL THINGS ANIMAL (10/4, 11/8, & 12/13, 11:00am-1:00pm, $35/day)
From furry friends and feathered flocks to legendary beasts, discover extraordinary creatures of every kind. Each session, you’ll explore a variety of materials as you bring to life your own 2D and 3D animal-inspired artworks. Come for one morning or the whole series — each day will bring wild new wonders from the animal kingdom!
Half & Full Day Programs: SEASONAL CRAFTS
Half Days: 9/17, 10/22, 12/10, 12:30-3:30, $50 -or- 12:30-5:15, $70
Full days: 10/13, 11/4, 11/11, 11/25, 9:15am-3:15pm, $95
Celebrate the colors, textures, and magic of fall through a variety of hands-on art projects. From autumnal lanterns to leaf mobiles, get ready to encounter fresh fun prompts and lots of creative inspiration that will be sure to spark your imagination.
CREATIVE PLAYDATE PROGRAM FEATURES
Art & Play for Curious Kids: Our after school and summer camp program intentionally blends art and play to spark creativity, enhance social-emotional skills, and promote brain development in a fun, hands-on environment.
Active Engagement: We mix in outdoor free play, group games, and sometimes even a dance party! Movement is key to keeping kids energized and engaged.
Mixed-Age Learning: Our Berkshires-based art program fosters a sense of community and mentorship, where younger children learn from older children, and vice versa, as kids of all ages collaborate on projects and develop leadership skills.
Balanced Structure: We provide a flexible structure that includes teacher-led activities, self-directed creative projects, and interactive group experiences, allowing kids to explore their interests while following a consistent routine.
Building Connections: Through creative play and hands-on art, children develop social skills, express themselves, and collaborate—all in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Resourceful Art Practices: We value the potential of reusing materials when possible, while also incorporating new supplies to support artistic growth and innovation. Our approach encourages thoughtful material use and reduces waste where we can.
Watch our Creative Playdate Program Summer Camp in Action!
This program is funded in part by 2025 grants from the Lee and New Marlborough Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. It is also supported in part by 2025 grants from Greylock Federal Credit Union & Lee Bank Foundation. We are deeply grateful for this support!
For additional info, please complete the PROGRAM INQUIRY FORM, send an EMAIL or call 413.457.1646.