When it comes to picking the perfect art camp or program for your child, it’s more than just finding a place to keep them entertained—it's about nurturing their creativity and helping them grow. Whether your child is just starting to explore their artistic side or already has a passion for painting, drawing, or digital art, choosing the right camp can make all the difference. We recently spoke with Richelle Norton, the founder of North Star Art Club in Edina. With her background as a trained educator in the Minneapolis public school system and her passion for the arts, Richelle shared some invaluable insights on what makes a great art program and how parents can choose one that’s right for their child. 1. Define the Experience Your Child Is Looking For According to Richelle, the first step in choosing an art camp is to define what kind of experience your child is looking for. Are they simply curious about art and looking for a fun way to spend their time, or do they have a budding passion that they want to explore more deeply? For families who want their children to be entertained with creative activities, there are larger, more corporate-style art programs that offer structured projects and larger class sizes. These programs are great for kids who enjoy dabbling in art but may not yet be ready for a deep dive into specific techniques or mediums. On the other hand, if your child has expressed a keen interest in the arts, you might want to consider a smaller, more focused program like North Star Art Club . These camps tend to offer a variety of art mediums—from digital art to painting and drawing—and provide opportunities to develop both basic and advanced skills. With smaller class sizes, your child can receive more personalized attention, which is crucial for honing their artistic abilities. 2. The Importance of Connection—With Peers and Teachers One of the things Richelle emphasized is the importance of connection—both between campers and between campers and their teachers. A great art program will not only help kids make new friends but also ensure that they feel connected to their instructor. At North Star Art Club, for example, students work with the same staff member throughout the week, allowing them to build a rapport that enhances their learning experience. " Art is about connection ," Richelle says. " Having a consistent teacher allows students to feel more comfortable, which can make a big difference in how much they enjoy and learn from their projects ." 3. Look for Experienced and Engaged Educators The quality of the staff is perhaps the most crucial factor in determining whether an art program will be a good fit for your child. Richelle recommends looking for programs where the instructors are not only skilled in their craft but also passionate about teaching. " Great art programs for youth recognize that each student is unique, with their own interests and skills ," she explains. " The best programs have educators who can engage students at all levels, nurturing their individual talents while encouraging creative exploration ." When choosing an art camp, ask about the backgrounds of the staff. Are they trained educators with experience in both art and teaching? How long have they been with the program? Consistency in staff not only helps build connections but also ensures that the quality of instruction remains high. 4. Find Programs That Foster Creative Problem-Solving Art isn’t just about making pretty pictures—it’s also a fantastic way for kids to develop their creative problem-solving skills. Look for programs that offer opportunities to explore different mediums and techniques, allowing your child to discover what they’re passionate about while also challenging them to think outside the box. Richelle points out that a good art program will offer a balance between structured learning and creative freedom, helping students build confidence in their abilities while also encouraging them to take risks and experiment. 5. Don’t Forget the Fun Factor Last but not least, make sure the program you choose is something your child will genuinely enjoy. Richelle advises parents to look for themes and activities that resonate with their child's interests. Whether it’s animals , fantasy , or nature , finding a camp that aligns with your child’s passions can make the experience more engaging and fun. At North Star Art Club, for instance, campers from different schools across Edina, Cottage Grove, and Bloomington come together to explore art in a supportive and creative environment. This allows kids from different backgrounds to bond over a shared love of art. -- Choosing the right art camp for your child is about more than just filling their time—it’s about finding a program that will inspire them, challenge them, and help them grow as individuals. By considering factors like the type of experience your child is looking for, the quality of the staff, and the opportunities for creative exploration, we believe you can find a camp that will not only entertain your child but also nurture their love of the arts.