Creative Connections: Exploring Art, Nature, and American Sign Language (ASL) – A 6-Week Series (Ages 6+ with a caregiver)

Join us for a brand-new opportunity to learn in the Katie’s Krops Outdoor Classroom! This engaging new program for children ages 6 and up (with a caregiver) will feature two guest educators who will provide us with hands-on opportunities to explore connections between art and science and also receive an introduction to American Sign Language (ASL).

Nature’s Canvas: Science Art Connections

An educational enrichment program that blends natural science, creative discovery, and art making.

Led by professional teaching artist Cat Brantley of Sister Moon Studio, students will create vibrant mixed-media artwork inspired by animals, plants, life cycles, and other wonders of the natural world. Using a variety of materials like paints, pastels, fabric, and more, students will connect science concepts and traditional principles of art to build layered, textured works of art. Join us in exploring nature, playful expression, and discovering the beauty and wonder of the outside world!

Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL)

An immersive introduction to ASL, designed to enrich communication skills, deepen cultural understanding, and increase connection with our neighbors in the d/Deaf community.

Communication can take many forms, and learning American Sign Language (ASL) is a powerful way to connect with the d/Deaf and non-verbal communities. In this immersive 6-week class led by EASE founder and CEO Jewel Sweeney, students will not only learn the ABCs, numbers, and essential signs, but will also dive into the rich culture and history of the d/Deaf community. Through hands-on activities, interactive lessons, and real-world scenarios, students will practice their new skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Come join us for a fun and enriching experience that will open up new pathways of communication and understanding!

Program Details

• This program will run for 6 weeks (February 24, March 3, 10, 24, 31 & April 7) from 10:00 – 12:30, unless otherwise noted or communicated. Please note: the art portion of class will not take place on March 31st and we will instead do a garden activity (ex: planting, harvesting, watering, etc).
• This program is 100% outdoors. We may need to adjust, reschedule or adjust meeting times in the event of inclement weather (ex: rain/thunderstorms, extreme/dangerous temperatures).
• Participants must register for the whole 6-week program. Individual class sign-ups or drop-in dates are not available.
• This program is for children ages 6 years and up. A caregiver must be present.
• Registration and class fees are due upon registration and are nonrefundable.

Program Purpose

The purpose of this program is to provide an enriching opportunity for homeschool children ages 6+ to interact, socialize, collaborate with and learn alongside a consistent peer group. The Katie’s Krops flagship garden will be the backdrop for all learning and will provide opportunities for exploration and discovery as well as a connection to food, the natural world around them, each other, and their community.

Participants should possess age-appropriate social and emotional skills, be comfortable outdoors for long periods of time, and should be able to stay focused during hour-long learning sessions and hands-on activities with varying degrees of assistance and guidance.

While we will make every effort to ensure all participants feel welcome and provide them with a fun and supportive learning environment, students should want to be outdoors, participate in learning and be able to follow instructions and appropriately interact with, learn with, and work alongside peers and educators.

All are welcome here. Katie’s Krops is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can learn, grow, and connect.

ENROLLMENT MINIMUM

A minimum of 7 students is required for this program to run.  If we don’t meet the minimum, your deposit will be returned in full.

SPECIAL THANKS

This 6-week program is made possible at a deeply discounted rate by the incredibly generous support of Junior Service League of Summerville, our visiting educators Sister Moon Studio and EASE (Equal Accessibility and Support Everywhere), and supporters like you. Registration and class fees help pay for instruction, purchase supplies for activities, operate the program, and sustain the Outdoor Classroom. All fees are non-refundable.