Kids Art Classes at Watchung Arts Center

The Watchung Arts Center offers engaging and creative kids art classes in Somerset County, New Jersey, designed to inspire young artists and nurture their imagination.

Through hands-on projects and supportive instruction, children have the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic materials while developing confidence in their creativity.

Preteen-Teen Art Classes

Preteen/Teen Drawing and Painting

Students in the class discover drawing and painting techniques as well as the use of different
materials to create representational and abstract projects. Participants work with wet and dry
media such as pencil, charcoal, oil or chalk pastels, watercolors as well as acrylic on canvas.

Classes are geared toward improving skills and developing artistic ability.

Children's drawing

Children's Drawing Classes

Young artists working develop their natural ability, improve their skills and explore new techniques as they learn the fundamentals of Drawing.

Students discover a variety of wet and dry media such as pencil, charcoal, oil and chalk pastels as well as watercolors while they sketch, shade, use perspective and the color wheel. Projects created from life and the imagination include portraits, landscapes, still life drawings, optical illusions and more!

Children's painting class

Children's Painting Classes

Students create realistic pieces or use their imagination as they explore the traditional technique of painting using non-toxic acrylics on a stretched canvas.

Young artists produce colorful landscapes, abstractions and still life paintings as they discover the basics of composition. Following step by step instructions, participants learn the proper use of paint and how to mix their own colors as they work on easels for the full painter’s experience!

Children's Summer Camp

Children's Summer Art Camp

Under the direction and instruction of Mrs. Monica Schraiber Otero, this Art Camp is a three-week program during the month of July for ages 5-11. Focusing on Creativity, Imagination and Ingenuity, Art Camp offers children a unique opportunity to acquire or improve artistic skills, learn new techniques, explore different materials and get inspired by famous artists. All while having fun!

Encouraging Creativity in Young Artists

Children naturally express themselves through drawing, painting, and building. Our kids art classes provide a structured environment where that creativity can grow.

Students are encouraged to experiment with different techniques and materials while learning fundamental artistic skills such as composition, color, and observation.

Most importantly, the program emphasizes the joy of making art. There is no pressure for perfection—only encouragement to explore ideas and express individual perspectives.

Age-Appropriate Learning

Kids classes at the Watchung Arts Center are carefully designed for different age groups so that activities match students’ developmental stages and interests.

Projects may include:

  • Drawing and painting

  • Clay and sculpture

  • Mixed media collage

  • Printmaking

  • Creative craft projects

These activities help children develop fine motor skills, visual thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Experienced and Supportive Instructors

Classes are taught by experienced instructors who enjoy working with young artists. Teachers guide students step by step while also encouraging individual creativity.

Because classes are typically kept small, each child receives personal attention and guidance throughout the learning process.

Parents often notice that children become more confident and excited about their creative abilities after participating in these programs.

Building Confidence and Imagination

Art education provides benefits that go far beyond the classroom. By making art, children learn to think creatively, take risks, and express their ideas visually.

These skills support overall development and can enhance learning in many other areas of life.

At the Watchung Arts Center, we believe that every child has creative potential. Our classes aim to create a supportive environment where that potential can flourish.

A Creative Experience for Somerset County Families

Families throughout Watchung, Berkeley Heights, Warren, and the greater Somerset County area participate in our kids art classes each year.

Seasonal sessions, workshops, and special programs allow children to explore art throughout the year while connecting with other young artists in the community.

Whether your child loves drawing, painting, or building imaginative creations, the Watchung Arts Center offers a welcoming place to discover the excitement of making art.