Creative Playdate Program: After School & Summer Art Camp
Step into our playful after-school, school-break, and summer art program in the Berkshires, where imagination leads the way for children ages 5–10. Through open-ended, hands-on art projects, young artists explore a wide range of materials and techniques—from painting and drawing to bookmaking, mixed media, and more—while building confidence, curiosity, and artistic skills.
Children ages 11–14 are invited to take part as Art Mentors, participating fully in the creative process while gently supporting younger artists and developing age-appropriate leadership skills. Each day fosters connection, collaboration, and joyful self-expression in a warm, inclusive environment. Active outdoor time is also woven into the day, creating a balanced experience rooted in art, play, and community.
Ages 5–10 | Ages 11–14 (Art Mentor Program)
4 Main St, Stockbridge, MA
SPRING AFTERSCHOOL SESSION
APRIL 6 - JUNE 10
Mondays & Wednesdays
3:45–5:15pm
Curious Creatures
Full-session and drop-in options available.
Wednesday Half Days
April 8 & May 13
12:30–3:30pm or 5:15pm
Signs of Spring
See program descriptions below.
SUMMER ART CAMP 2026
JUNE 15 - JULY 31
Monday-Friday
9:15am-3:15pm
Weekly Themes
Mini Week: (6/15–6/16): Campfires & Constellations
Week 1 (6/22–6/26): Enchanted Worlds
Week 2 (6/29–7/2): Make Your Mark
Week 3 (7/6–7/10): Mix, Match, Mashup
Week 4 (7/13–7/17): Fantastic Fibers
Week 5 (7/20–7/24): To Space & Beyond!
Week 6 (7/27–7/31): Secret Life of Books
Curious Creatures
Mondays (4/6-6/8) & Wednesdays (4/8-6/10)
In this mixed media series, we’ll invent strange species—imaginary animals, hybrids, and other fantastical beings—while experimenting with collage, watercolor, and sculpture. Each week we’ll draw inspiration from nature, artists, books, and our imaginations while exploring different techniques. From dreamy forest dwellers to mysterious deep-sea creatures and magical animals that soar through the sky, you’ll bring your ideas to life with colorful details, layered textures, and plenty of personality.
Signs of Spring
Wednesday Half Days (4/8 & 5/13)
During these special half-day sessions, we’ll look closely at the ways spring is unfolding before our eyes—budding leaves, returning birds, blooming flowers, and wandering pollinators. You’ll create projects such as sculptural bird nests, miniature mixed media gardens, and handmade wildflower seed paper.
OUR APPROACH
Art & Play for Curious Kids: At Second Nature Arts, our after-school programs, holiday camps, and summer camps in the Berkshires blend art and play to spark creativity, build social-emotional skills, and support kids’ growth and development in a fun, hands-on environment.
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.
Active Creative Engagement: We mix in outdoor free play and kid-designed activities like obstacle courses and scavenger hunts to keep kids energized while encouraging creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.
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.
Check out our Summer Art Camp in Action!
This program is funded in part by 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 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.