St. Charles Park District Launches Exciting Fall Programs for Kids

As autumn approaches, the St. Charles Park District is set to offer an array of engaging programs for children, allowing parents to enjoy some well-deserved time to themselves. The district has partnered with All Things Art Studio to deliver creative courses that cater to young artists. The programs, designed for children aged five to ten, will run in seven-week sessions until December.

Children can immerse themselves in various artistic disciplines through classes such as Everything Art, which encourages exploration of different media including painting, clay, and collage. The Clay class will specifically focus on sculpting techniques, allowing kids to create and refine their pieces, which will be kiln-fired and glazed. Another option, Drawing and Cartooning, will provide a platform for children to experiment with charcoal, chalk pastels, and various drawing styles.

For older children aged eight to eighteen, the Wheel Throwing class will teach the fundamentals of using a potter’s wheel. Classes will be held on Wednesdays from October 22 to December 10, with sessions scheduled from 16:15 to 17:45 or 18:00 to 19:30.

Parent’s Night Out offers an exciting opportunity for parents to enjoy an evening of relaxation while their children engage in creative activities such as drawing, painting, and mixed media crafts. These events will take place from 18:00 to 19:30 on select Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through December 20. According to Rosie Edwards, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation, the night will include a variety of fine arts, holiday crafts, and structured games.

Day Camps will also be available for children aged five to eleven, providing exposure to various art tools and techniques from printmaking to textiles. These camps will run from 10:00 to 14:00 on multiple dates from October through early January.

The district is planning special events tailored to seasonal celebrations. On October 24, Parent’s Night Out: Halloween Night, will take place from 17:00 to 20:00. Children will have the chance to paint pumpkins, participate in Halloween bingo, and dance to festive tunes. Abigail Fleming, Recreation Supervisor for Teens and Tweens, noted that children are encouraged to come in costume, with a surprise planned for those who do.

Following Halloween, Parent’s Night Out: Under the Sea will be held on November 7 from 17:00 to 19:00, specifically designed for preschoolers aged three to five. Kara Guizzetti, Early Childhood and Preschool Supervisor, highlighted the focus on ocean-themed crafts and activities, with costumes encouraged. Parents can opt for an extended evening with a pizza dinner option and an early drop-off.

Older children will not miss out on the fun, as Nerf Night will be available for those aged six to ten. Scheduled for November 21 and December 19 from 18:30 to 20:30, participants can engage in games like Capture the Flag and Team Elimination. They may bring their own Nerf guns and safety gear or use equipment provided by the park district.

All classes and events will be hosted at All Things Art Studio, located at 1106 W. Main St., St. Charles. For further details about the programs and to register, visit stcparks.org.