This Weekend at a Glance

🎨 Painting & Drawing: Canvas painting, watercolors, sketching, and mixed media
🏺 Pottery & Ceramics: Wheel throwing, hand-building, and clay sculpture
🎭 Performing Arts: Drama workshops, music classes, and dance
✂️ Crafts & Maker Spaces: DIY projects, sewing, woodworking, and STEM crafts
📸 Digital Arts: Photography, animation, and digital design for kids
🆓 Free Options: Library programs, museum workshops, and community events

Why Creative Classes Matter for Kids

• Builds confidence and self-expression — Children learn to share their unique perspectives
• Develops fine motor skills — Painting, sculpting, and crafting strengthen hand-eye coordination
• Encourages problem-solving — Art requires creative thinking and adaptability
• Reduces stress and anxiety — Creative activities provide healthy emotional outlets
• Fosters social connections — Group classes help kids make friends with shared interests
• Screen-free engagement — Hands-on activities balance digital time
• Creates lasting memories — Kids take home artwork they're proud of

Table of Contents

• → Painting & Drawing Classes
• → Pottery & Ceramics Studios
• → Crafts & Maker Spaces
• → Performing Arts Workshops
• → STEM + Arts (STEAM) Programs
• → Free & Low-Cost Creative Programs
• → Classes by Age Group
• → Classes by Location
• → Creative Birthday Party Venues
• → Tips for Choosing the Right Class
• → Frequently Asked Questions

Painting with a Twist — Kids Edition

📍 Locations: Fairfax, Reston, Gainesville, Woodbridge
👶 Ages: 6-12 years
💰 Cost: $25-$35 per session
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday & Sunday classes available

Step-by-step guided painting sessions where kids create their own canvas masterpiece to take home. Each class focuses on a different themed painting — from animals and landscapes to pop culture favorites. No experience necessary; all supplies included. Perfect for birthday parties and group outings.

This Weekend's Classes: "Galaxy Night Sky," "Unicorn Dreams," "Sports All-Stars"

Art at the Center

📍 Location: 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria
👶 Ages: 3-14 years (age-specific classes)
💰 Cost: $30-$45 per class; semester packages available
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday 9am-4pm; Sunday 10am-2pm

A beloved Alexandria institution offering progressive art education in a nurturing environment. Classes focus on developing foundational skills while encouraging creative exploration. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention. Curriculum includes drawing fundamentals, color mixing, perspective, and mixed media techniques.

Specialty Programs: Young Artists (3-5), Emerging Artists (6-9), Advanced Studio (10-14), Homeschool Art

Kidcreate Studio

📍 Locations: Ashburn, Fairfax
👶 Ages: 18 months - 12 years
💰 Cost: $22-$32 per drop-in class
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 10am-4pm

Award-winning art studio designed specifically for children with age-appropriate curriculum and process-focused instruction. Their signature "messy art" approach lets kids explore without worry. Classes rotate weekly with new projects including painting, sculpture, drawing, and mixed media.

This Weekend's Projects: "Abstract Splatter Art," "Mini Canvas Landscapes," "Finger Paint Masterpieces"

The Art League School

📍 Location: Torpedo Factory Art Center, Alexandria
👶 Ages: 5-17 years
💰 Cost: $180-$280 per 6-8 week session; drop-ins available
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday classes throughout the day

One of the region's most respected art education institutions, located in the historic Torpedo Factory. Young artists learn from professional working artists in a real studio environment. Programs range from foundational drawing and painting to specialized workshops in cartooning, anime, and portfolio development for aspiring teen artists.

Popular Youth Programs: Drawing Basics, Watercolor Exploration, Manga & Anime, Teen Portfolio Prep

ClayWorks Studio

📍 Location: 1419 Powhatan Street, Alexandria
👶 Ages: 6-17 years
💰 Cost: $35-$50 per class; multi-week sessions $200-$300
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-4pm

Alexandria's beloved community ceramic studio offers dedicated youth programs in both wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. Young potters learn to center clay, shape vessels, and glaze their creations. Small classes (max 8 students) ensure plenty of one-on-one instruction. All pieces are kiln-fired and ready for pickup within 2 weeks.

Youth Programs: Kids Wheel (8+), Clay Play Hand-Building (6+), Teen Pottery (13-17), Family Clay Dates

Hinckley Pottery

📍 Location: 1707 Kalorama Road NW, DC (close to NOVA)
👶 Ages: 7-15 years
💰 Cost: $60 per 2-hour workshop
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday workshops available

A working pottery studio that opens its doors for weekend youth workshops. Kids get hands-on experience with real pottery wheels in a professional studio environment. The intimate setting (max 6 students) allows for personalized instruction from experienced ceramic artists. Perfect for kids who want a taste of "real" pottery before committing to longer programs.

Color Me Mine

📍 Locations: Fairfax, Arlington, Reston
👶 Ages: All ages (toddler-friendly)
💰 Cost: $8-$15 studio fee + price of pottery piece ($10-$50)
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10am-9pm

Paint-your-own pottery studio perfect for younger children or those who prefer decorating to sculpting. Choose from hundreds of pre-made ceramic pieces — from figurines to plates to mugs — and paint them with provided glazes. Pieces are kiln-fired and ready for pickup in about a week. No reservation needed for walk-ins; great for spontaneous creative outings.

Best For: Toddlers (with parents), birthday parties, siblings of different ages, no-mess pottery experience

Torpedo Factory Art Center — Ceramics

📍 Location: 105 N. Union Street, Alexandria
👶 Ages: 8-17 years
💰 Cost: $175-$250 per 6-week session
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday classes

Learn pottery in one of the region's most inspiring artistic environments. Youth classes are taught by professional ceramic artists whose studios are in the same building. Students learn fundamental techniques including wedging, centering, throwing, trimming, and glazing while developing their artistic voice.

🏺 Pottery Tip for Parents: Wheel throwing typically requires kids to be at least 7-8 years old due to coordination requirements. Younger children (4-6) do wonderfully with hand-building projects like pinch pots, coil bowls, and clay sculptures. Paint-your-own studios work great for all ages, including toddlers with parental help.

Sew What? Studio

📍 Location: 2742 Richmond Highway, Alexandria
👶 Ages: 6-16 years
💰 Cost: $40-$65 per workshop; camps available
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday 10am-5pm

A dedicated sewing studio for kids and teens with professional machines and expert instruction. Weekend workshops focus on single-session projects like pillows, tote bags, stuffed animals, and clothing accessories. More advanced students can tackle clothing construction, cosplay costumes, and fashion design projects.

This Weekend's Projects: "Fleece Hat & Mittens," "Drawstring Backpack," "Scrunchie Making Party"

G Street Fabrics — Kids Classes

📍 Location: 11854 Rockville Pike, Rockville (near NOVA)
👶 Ages: 8-15 years
💰 Cost: $45-$75 per class
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday classes

The region's premier fabric store offers youth sewing classes taught by experienced instructors. Students use professional equipment and choose from beautiful fabrics. Classes progress from basic machine operation to garment construction. Perfect for kids who want to learn a practical lifelong skill.

Nova Labs

📍 Location: 1916 Isaac Newton Square W, Reston
👶 Ages: 8-17 years
💰 Cost: $35-$75 per workshop
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday workshops; check schedule

A community maker space offering youth workshops in woodworking, electronics, 3D printing, laser cutting, and more. Kids learn to use real tools and equipment in a supportive environment. Projects range from simple to complex, allowing kids to build skills progressively. Perfect for curious tinkerers and future engineers.

Youth Workshop Examples: "Build Your Own Flashlight," "Intro to 3D Printing," "Wooden Toy Car," "LED Art Project"

Board & Brush Creative Studio

📍 Locations: Ashburn, Manassas
👶 Ages: 8+ (with adult); Teen nights available
💰 Cost: $45-$68 per project
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday & Sunday classes

DIY wood sign and home décor studio with family-friendly weekend workshops. Kids (with adult participation) choose from dozens of designs and learn techniques like staining, painting, stenciling, and distressing. Perfect for parent-child bonding activities or teen creative outings with friends.

AR Workshop

📍 Locations: Arlington, Fairfax
👶 Ages: 10+ (Kids' Workshops); All ages (Family Workshops)
💰 Cost: $55-$85 per project
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday & Sunday workshops

Boutique DIY studio offering wood projects, canvas art, and seasonal crafts. Special "Little Makers" workshops designed for younger crafters feature age-appropriate projects like string art, simple wood signs, and holiday decorations. A great introduction to crafting for kids who love making things.

Creative Cauldron — Youth Programs

📍 Location: 410 South Maple Avenue, Falls Church
👶 Ages: 4-18 years
💰 Cost: $250-$450 per session; workshops $50-$75
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday classes and workshops

An award-winning professional theater company with comprehensive youth education programs. Weekend workshops introduce kids to acting, improvisation, and musical theater. Longer programs culminate in full productions where kids perform on a real stage. Taught by professional actors and directors.

Programs: Drama Sprouts (4-6), Stage Explorers (7-10), Teen Acting Intensive, Musical Theater Workshop

Traveling Players Ensemble

📍 Location: Tysons (and various venues)
👶 Ages: 8-18 years
💰 Cost: $75-$150 per workshop
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday workshops and intensives

A professional theater company dedicated to developing young artists through classical and contemporary drama. Weekend workshops focus on Shakespeare, improvisation, movement, and voice. Known for their outdoor summer productions at Madeira School, but year-round classes available for serious young performers.

Adventure Theatre MTC

📍 Location: 7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD (near NOVA)
👶 Ages: 3-17 years
💰 Cost: $200-$400 per session; single workshops available
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday classes

The longest-running children's theater in the Washington region, located in the historic Glen Echo Park. Classes range from creative dramatics for preschoolers to advanced acting for teens. The magical setting in a restored amusement park adds to the theatrical experience.

Children's Science Center — STEAM Saturdays

📍 Location: Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax
👶 Ages: 4-12 years
💰 Cost: $15-$25 per workshop (plus admission)
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday & Sunday workshops

Special weekend workshops combine art and science in engaging projects. Kids might build and decorate catapults, create chemical reaction art, design and test paper airplanes, or construct circuits that light up. Hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and creativity simultaneously.

This Weekend: "Light-Up Greeting Cards," "Magnetic Art Sculptures," "Chemistry of Color"

iD Tech — Digital Arts Workshops

📍 Locations: Various NOVA college campuses
👶 Ages: 7-17 years
💰 Cost: $149-$299 per workshop
⏰ Weekend Hours: Weekend workshop intensives

Weekend workshops in digital arts including video game design, 3D modeling, animation, digital photography, and graphic design. Kids learn industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Blender, and Unity in small classes with tech-savvy instructors. Perfect for creative kids who love technology.

Code Ninjas — Creative Coding

📍 Locations: Ashburn, Fairfax, Centreville, Burke, South Riding
👶 Ages: 5-14 years
💰 Cost: $50-$75 per workshop; membership options
⏰ Weekend Hours: Saturday workshops available

Kids learn coding through game development, combining creative design with programming logic. Weekend workshops focus on specific projects like building a video game, creating animated stories, or designing digital art. A perfect blend of technical skills and artistic expression.

Fairfax County Public Libraries

💰 Cost: FREE
📅 Schedule: Weekends year-round
👶 Ages: Varies by program (toddler-teen)

Programs include:

• STEAM Saturday workshops
• Art exploration for preschoolers
• Teen maker programs
• Craft programs during school breaks
• Special cultural arts celebrations

Check fcpl.org for current weekend programs at your local branch

Loudoun County Public Libraries

💰 Cost: FREE
📅 Schedule: Saturday programs at most branches
👶 Ages: All ages

Programs include:

• Art cart drop-in activities
• Maker space projects
• Creative writing workshops
• Book-inspired art projects
• Cultural craft programs

Raising Creative Kids in Northern Virginia

The abundance of creative programming is just one reason families love Northern Virginia. With top-rated schools, diverse communities, and endless enrichment opportunities, NOVA offers an exceptional environment for raising well-rounded children. Explore family-friendly neighborhoods or get your home's current value if you're considering a move.

🎈 Birthday Party Tips: Book creative party venues 4-6 weeks in advance, especially for weekend dates. Most venues include all supplies, instruction, and a dedicated party space. Ask about add-ons like pizza, cake service, and goody bags. Many studios offer weekday discounts if your schedule allows.

What age can kids start art classes?

Children can start creative classes as young as 18 months to 2 years old with parent-and-me style programs that focus on sensory exploration and process art. By age 3-4, kids can participate in preschool art classes with more structured activities. Independent classes (where parents can drop off) typically start around age 5-6. More technical activities like pottery wheel, sewing machines, and advanced digital arts usually require children to be 7-8 years old due to coordination and attention span requirements.

How much do kids' art classes cost in Northern Virginia?

Costs vary widely depending on the type of class and format. Drop-in workshops typically range from $20-$50 per session. Multi-week sessions (6-8 weeks) generally cost $150-$350 depending on the studio and class length. Paint-your-own pottery studios charge a studio fee ($8-$15) plus the price of the pottery piece ($10-$50). Free options include library programs, Home Depot Kids' Workshops, and some community events. Many studios offer sibling discounts, multi-class packages, and seasonal promotions.

Do kids need prior experience for art classes?

Most weekend workshops and introductory classes are designed for beginners with no prior experience. Studios structure their programs by age group, assuming kids within that range start at similar skill levels. When registering for ongoing programs or advanced classes, studios will ask about experience to ensure proper placement. If your child has significant experience in a particular art form, ask about placement in a more advanced group to keep them challenged and engaged.

What should my child wear to art class?

Dress your child in comfortable clothes that can get messy — old t-shirts, play clothes, or clothing you don't mind getting stained. Avoid white or light-colored clothing for painting and pottery classes. Closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially for pottery (clay can drop) and maker spaces (safety). Many studios provide smocks or aprons, but bringing your own ensures protection. For dance and theater classes, follow specific dress code requirements provided by the studio.

Can parents stay during art classes?

Policies vary by studio and age group. Parent-and-me classes (for children under 4) require parent participation. For children ages 4-6, some studios require parents to stay while others offer drop-off. Most classes for ages 7+ are designed for parent drop-off, with parents returning at the end. Some studios have waiting areas; others encourage parents to run errands. Always ask about the policy when registering, and follow your child's comfort level — some kids do better when parents aren't watching.

How do I find free art classes for kids in Northern Virginia?

The best free options include: Fairfax, Loudoun, and Arlington public library programs (STEAM workshops, craft programs, art exploration); Home Depot Kids' Workshop (first Saturday of each month); Lowe's DIY Kids' Clinic (select Saturdays); LEGO Store monthly mini builds (registration required); Apple Store "Today at Apple" youth sessions; and community events at local festivals and cultural centers. Check your local library's event calendar and sign up for store newsletters to get notifications about free programs.

What's the best art class for a shy or anxious child?

For shy or anxious children, consider activities that are individually focused rather than performance-based. Pottery wheel, drawing, and sewing allow kids to work at their own pace without audience pressure. Smaller class sizes (4-6 students) create more intimate environments. Paint-your-own pottery studios offer flexible, low-pressure experiences. Avoid theater or performance classes initially unless your child specifically requests them. Once your child builds confidence through individual art-making, they may become interested in more social creative activities.

Are there art classes for kids with special needs?

Many Northern Virginia studios welcome children with special needs and can accommodate various learning styles. Art therapy programs specifically designed for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other needs are available through organizations like the Art League and specialized therapy practices. When registering for any class, communicate your child's needs with the instructor so they can provide appropriate support. Sensory-friendly environments, smaller class sizes, and one-on-one instruction options are available at many studios.

How far in advance should I book weekend art classes?

Popular weekend workshops — especially at venues like Painting with a Twist, Kidcreate Studio, and pottery studios — often fill up 1-2 weeks in advance. For multi-week sessions, registration typically opens 2-4 weeks before the session begins, and popular time slots fill quickly. Birthday party bookings should be made 4-6 weeks in advance. Free programs like Home Depot Kids' Workshop and LEGO mini builds require early registration (often the same day they're announced) as spots are limited. Sign up for studio newsletters and follow social media accounts to get early notification of new classes.

What if my child doesn't like the class?

It's normal for children to need time to adjust to new activities and environments. Give it at least 2-3 sessions before deciding a class isn't the right fit. If your child is consistently unhappy, talk to the instructor for insights. Many studios offer trial classes or drop-in options that let you test the waters before committing to a full session. If the specific class isn't working, try a different art form — a child who dislikes structured painting might love the tactile experience of pottery, or a child who struggles with fine motor skills might thrive in theater or dance.

Can siblings of different ages take classes together?

Some activities work well for mixed-age siblings while others are best experienced in age-appropriate groups. Paint-your-own pottery studios (like Color Me Mine) are perfect for siblings of any age since each child works independently. Family workshops at studios like Board & Brush welcome mixed ages with adult supervision. However, for skill-building classes like pottery wheel, drawing fundamentals, or theater, children benefit from age-appropriate instruction. Many studios offer sibling discounts even when children are in different classes, making it economical to enroll multiple children during the same time block.

Discover Why Families Love Northern Virginia

The abundance of creative programming, top-rated schools, and family-friendly communities make Northern Virginia an exceptional place to raise children. From world-class museums and performing arts venues to neighborhood studios and free library programs, NOVA offers endless opportunities for kids to explore their creativity and develop new passions.

Whether you're looking to put down roots in a community with excellent enrichment opportunities, upgrade to a larger home with space for art projects, or find a neighborhood near your child's favorite studio, our team is here to help you navigate the Northern Virginia real estate market.