This year, students may miss the hands on instruction they would normally receive at school within the art room. At 620 art, your child can still receive in person, high quality art instruction from a Texas art certified teacher with over 13 years of public art education experience! Our class sizes are kept small to ensure safety and individual attention. Students will explore art through a variety of processes and media including drawing, painting, collage, printmaking and sculpture. Students also experience fine art by viewing the artwork in our gallery space. Sign your young artist up today at 620 Art Gallery & Studio in Round Rock!

Welcome to Zaragoza Park's Newly Planted Diversity Grove 'Tree ID' Activities Hub

In March 2019, City of Austin Urban Forestry planted more than 60 baby trees, or saplings, comprising 30 species in Parque Zaragoza Neighborhood Park.   Our website and Parque Zaragoza Neighborhood Park provides free educational fun activities for learning more about the park's new Diversity Grove and how to identify trees.  You can use the Grove Tree ID Location Map to identify the 30 various species we have growing in Parque Zaragoza. Many of the new saplings provide an excellent opportunity for children reaching the heights of many of the tree's canopies an up close leaf identification experience.The 'All Things Trees' pdf information pack provides educational and fun facts about all the trees in the park including height, fruit, and various wildlife each tree provides shelter and food for. Make sure to also checkout the instructions and downloadable template for making eco-friendly DIY tree identification signs and other kids activities for all ages.Don't forget to hug one of our 200 year old heritage Oaks too. 

And contact parquezaragozana@gmail.com if you have photos you would like to add of a family or school park event to our website or social media. We would love to share your experience! 

Welcome to Zaragoza Park's Newly Planted Diversity Grove 'Tree ID' Activities Hub

In March 2019, City of Austin Urban Forestry planted more than 60 baby trees, or saplings, comprising 30 species in Parque Zaragoza Neighborhood Park.   Our website and Parque Zaragoza Neighborhood Park provides free educational fun activities for learning more about the park's new Diversity Grove and how to identify trees.  You can use the Grove Tree ID Location Map to identify the 30 various species we have growing in Parque Zaragoza. Many of the new saplings provide an excellent opportunity for children reaching the heights of many of the tree's canopies an up close leaf identification experience.The 'All Things Trees' pdf information pack provides educational and fun facts about all the trees in the park including height, fruit, and various wildlife each tree provides shelter and food for. Make sure to also checkout the instructions and downloadable template for making eco-friendly DIY tree identification signs and other kids activities for all ages.Don't forget to hug one of our 200 year old heritage Oaks too. 

And contact parquezaragozana@gmail.com if you have photos you would like to add of a family or school park event to our website or social media. We would love to share your experience! 

Band Aid School of Music is Austin's premier music school, teaching hundreds of students from infant to adult. Whatever instrument you or your child wish to play, odds are we teach it: Piano, Guitar, Drums, Bands, Voice, Singing, Brass, Woodwinds, and more.

We are OPEN and offering private, group, and band lessons (in-person at our South location, online, or home visit options available). We are taking extra precaution during this time by requiring masks to be worn by all parents, students, and staff when meeting for all in person lessons, in addition to social distancing. We are also sanitizing each practice room and all equipment after each lesson.

Want to join our growing Austin Family of music lovers? Sign up online or email info@bandaidschoolofmusic.com :)

Have to work or have other commitments during the day, but don’t want to send your child to a crowded school due to COVID concerns? Then, send them to Code Ninjas in a safe, engaging environment by enrolling them in our new Supervised E-Learning Program. We have very limited seating and high demand for this, so email us at roundrocktx@codeninjas.com

Read below for more information:

What is the Supervised E-Learning program at Code Ninjas Round Rock?

This new program offers parents the freedom to focus on the workday along with the peace of mind that their children are safe to focus on the school day. Our staff will follow your child's school schedule (as provided by you) and ensure they are on-time to their virtual sessions and actively participating whether it is a synchronous or an asynchronous session. 

Program Overview:

• Seats Available: Only 14 (to allow for social distancing)

• We will provide laptops. We will also provide headphones, if needed.

• Program cost: $10 an hour

• Days: You will pick which days of the week your child will attend the Supervised E-Learning at Code Ninjas Round Rock. Example: Tuesday & Thursdays. We follow the school calendar for days of operation.

• Time Spots:

• Half Day mornings (8:00am - 11:30am)

• Half Day afternoons (11:30am - 3:00pm)

• Full Day (8:00am - 3:00pm)

• We are flexible with the time spots. Please let us know if you need a time-frame outside these and we will see if we can accommodate it.

• Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1

• To guarantee a spot, you must prepay for the days you need in August. 

Our goal at Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids is to provide families with an amazing haircut experience. From the playscape in the waiting area to the TVs, video games, and fantasy chairs on the cutting floor our expert staff is waiting to provide your child with a one of a kind experience.

We strive to provide a caring environment where we put both the child and the parent at ease. Our stylists are skilled in cutting hair for all children, and provide that extra special touch for those with special needs. Not all children like to get their haircut, we are aware of this struggle and do all we can to make the experience one that they will want to have again. We strive to help all kids Discover How Much Fun A Haircut Can Be!

EIM is a flow-arts based functional movement practice; intended for all ages and stages of (self-propelled) development. 

It includes Elementally Intuitive Movement 101 and Elemental Implement Manipulation. 

I offers in-person guidance through the six levels of EIM, for pod/groups of 12 or less; the rate is the same ($80/hr), regardless of class size--gather together, separately, and save--plus it's fun to gather together, knowing we are giving each other enough space because EIM requires each body have at least 6 feet of space, or more, to explore their sphere freely. 

We wear masks to help reduce airborne particulate (like pollen and dust); to show our respect for each other; and as a form of eustress training (choosing to do something uncomfortable bc we CAN--and getting better at it because we are choosing to practice getting better at it). 

My goal is to provide you with a daily practice that you can maintain on your own, with minimal guidance on my part--because you have learned how to listen to your own body's signals, as it communicates to you, the navigator. 

After 17 years working on human bodies, I want to help prevent the wear & tear I witnessed on my massage table--EIM is a gentle practice that helps keep my own (very particular) vessel mobile, and relatively pain-free (after a lifetime of chronic pain). I'm eager to share it with you and your loved ones, at your preferred outdoor location--be it your back/front yard, or at a local park. 

Whether you’re planning on a season of at-home micro school, home school, or conventional in-person classes for your child this fall, safe music instruction can easily fit within your plans. Franklin Music Academy offers online music lessons as well as safe in-person instruction designed to fit your budget, schedule, and child’s unique interests.

We know firsthand how music education benefits kids because we see it every day. For years, many parents have trusted our expertise.

Group music lessons are a phenomenal way to round out a pandemic pod learning experience by adding fun to your child’s weekly routine. In this music education format, kids learn from an expert instructor as well as their peers, and they’re perfect for social learners.

In private online and in-person lessons, Franklin Music Academy offers instruction for how to play guitar, piano, drums, keyboard, and even expert guidance on how kids can write, record, and produce music from home. Every kid can benefit from the fun, excitement, and personalized attention that private music lessons deliver.

Our world is more complicated than ever. Music is an easy choice.

Learn more about our lessons and discover how music education benefits kids. 

How Franklin Music Academy is prioritizing safe in-person music lessons during the pandemic

While music is profoundly meaningful to us, we know we have a big responsibility. Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the families we work with and our staff. To ensure safe in-person music education, our instructors and kids must follow a strict set of Daily Pandemic Safety Procedures. We’re committed to keeping our kids safe and staff safe. See our guidelines below:

Daily Pandemic Safety Procedures

• Students and instructors are asked to wear a face covering over the mouth during lessons
• We closely monitor daily updates and recommendations from the CDC
• No physical greetings
• Seats, piano keys, tables, and doorknobs are sanitized after each lesson
• Our staff is trained in thorough and frequent hand-washing: fronts, backs, wrists, between fingers with soap and water for at least twenty seconds each time
• Supervised 20-second hand washing is required for every student before lessons 
• Employees have been instructed to never come to work if they experience fever or any COVID-19 symptoms. We ask at this time that students and families do the same 

More about Franklin Music Academy 

Franklin Music Academy was founded after educator JP Ahmad saw how much the kids in his fifth grade class enjoyed performing Beatles songs. Word quickly spread around Austin about the school, and its curriculum quickly expanded to offer new programs, instructors, and instruments. The academy is now seen as a staple in Austin’s music education community. We’re proud to offer lessons on a variety of instruments for students of all ages and musical backgrounds. 

We’re here for your kids during this tough time. Music can help.

To learn more, fill out this contact form and we’ll be in touch!

Our in-person Sparta, NJ Meditation Group classes are back. However, we are continuing to offer live stream guided meditation classes for the Sparta, NJ Area.

Beginner friendly meditation classes include guided meditation and practical wisdom on how to maintain the experience of the inner peace in daily life. Connect with an experience of inner peace and develop practical tools to maintain a positive mind.

Online Live ZOOM Modern Buddhism guided meditation classes, no experience needed.
$10 per class | pre-registration required
845-856-9000 www.KadampaNewYork.org

Upcoming Meditation Class topics

April 12, 2021 : Overcoming scattered thoughts
April 19, 2012 : How to cultivate mindfulness
April 26, 2021 : Developing concentration

Buddha taught meditation and special ways of thinking that allow us to keep peace of mind and be of real help to others regardless of what is happening in our lives and the world.

Free online Meditation and Buddhism Books and Resources:
MEDITATION - "Getting Started or Back to Basics" FREE online Meditation Audio and Resource Page:
1) Buddhist Podcasts Free - No subscription, No Sign-up, No ads
2) Free Online Meditation Audio - Learn how to meditate. Includes guided meditation for beginners. No subscription, No signup, No ads.
3) Free Meditation Book "How to Transform Your Life" and Modern Buddhism eBook download. No subscription, No ads

Best Guided Meditations youtube - How to Meditate and Introduction to Buddhist Meditation includes: Guided Meditations for Beginners, Meditation on Karma, Meditations on Overcoming Anger and more,
NO ADS.

Kadampa Meditation Center New York World Peace Temple in Sullivan County Catskills in Upstate NY is open, Free to the Public. Tour the Buddhist World Peace Temple, Hike, Walk Nature Trails, Buddhist Book Store, Gift Shop and Outdoor Cafe Coffee shop, Tea, Snacks and locally homemade baked goods. Families & Pets on a leash welcome.

Registration is now open for Fall classes and performance opportunities at Oddfellows Playhouse in Middletown.

Fall 2021 at Oddfellows Playhouse in Middletown holds an array of programs for students ages 3-20. Programs will run from September 20 - December 9th. Our in-person, socially distanced, covid-safe programs feature crafts, circus arts, dance, theater, acting, juggling, acrofit, contortion, and a mainstage performance! All classes will be held in the Oddfellows Playhouse theater. For details, and more information, go to www.oddfellows.org, call (860) 347-6143, or email info@oddfellows.org.

 All classes will have tuition of 200$ unless otherwise noted and all classes Monday-Thursday have the option to add on our Oddbridge after school program for 50$.

CIRCUS SATURDAYS

The fun starts on Saturday Sept 18th with “Welcome to Circus” for ages 3-5 and “Circus 1” for ages 6-8. Both classes will be led by Maegan Fuller. 

“Circrobatics I” offers participants the chance to have a blast tumbling and playing with scarves, ribbons, and other fun pieces of circus equipment for an exciting introduction to circus. These classes will run every Saturday from 10-10:45am. Tuition is $200. 

“Circrobatics II” gives participants the chance to have fun discovering their inner clown while learning how to manipulate different pieces of circus equipment including; flower sticks, diabolo, juggling, poi, and more! Classes run on Saturdays from 11am-12pm. Tuition is $200. 

AGES 6-8

Musical Mentoring

A partnership between Oddfellows and Wesleyan University’s student-run Cardinal Kids, this class provides individual music mentoring with a Wesleyan music student. The lessons are tailored to fit the individual needs of different learners, and the mentors will work closely with their students to develop their musical skills and stimulate interest. Available topics include voice, keyboard, guitar and violin. Class time: Mondays 430-530 beginning 9/20/21

Hip Hop Dance

Class time: Mondays 430-530 beginning 9/20/21

Circus I

Juggling, plate spinning, hula hooping and more! Class time: Tuesdays 430-530 beginning 9/21/21

Fairy Tale Theater

A theatrical exploration of the Fairy Tale world, featuring characters and stories from your favorite fairy tales.  Class time: Wednesdays 430-530 beginning 9/22/21

Story Theater from Around the World

Students will use theater games and skills to explore tales and fables from different parts of the world. We can discover how people from all over the world answered questions like: How did birds get their colorful wings? Or, Why do turtles have shells? And many more! Class time: Thursdays 430-530 beginning 9/23/21

AGES 9-11

Circus II

Juggling, plate spinning, hula hooping and more! Mondays 430-530 beginning 9/20/21

Tom Sawyer Mini-Production

Students will explore the classic story “Tom Sawyer” and put an original spin on this age old “getting in and MOSTLY out of trouble” tale. Through theater games and character work we will use our own creativity along with scripts to create a unique re-telling of Mark Twain’s well-known coming of age story.
Tuesdays 430-545 beginning 9/21/21

Musical Mentoring

A partnership between Oddfellows and Wesleyan University’s student-run Cardinal Kids, this class provides individual music mentoring with a Wesleyan music student. The lessons are tailored to fit the individual needs of different learners, and the mentors will work closely with their students to develop their musical skills and stimulate interest. Available topics include voice, keyboard, guitar and violin. Wednesdays 430-530 beginning 9/22/21

Theater Improv

Learn the art of play in the world of theatre through improvisation - making it up as you go along! Enhance your listening, communication skills and confidence while giving your imagination a supportive space to thrive in as you make new friends and have fun.
Wednesdays 430-530 beginning 9/22/21

Hip Hop Dance

Thursdays 430-530 beginning 9/23/21 *Ages 9-14*

AGES 11-20

Acting and Scene Study

Develop skills and techniques that will enhance your creativity, strengthen your communication skills and foster new friendships. Nurture and magnify your inner gifts and natural talents by working with partners on scenes from classic and contemporary theater.
Mondays 4:30-6pm beginning 9/20/21

Circophony Teen Circus

Students are invited to join one or both days where they will practice and learn both solo skills and build a repertoire as an ensemble. Monday with Allison McDermott will focus on Tumbling, Mini-trampoline and Equilibristics (Unicycles, rolling globe, rola bola, spools, trick bikes).

Tuesday with Naja Muller and Allison McDermott will focus on Partner Acrobatics, Contortion, Juggling and Prop Manipulation. Fall Training is a great way to prepare for Circophony's Winter Main Stage show.

Get a second day of Circophony for a discounted rate. Simply "add on" in registration! (Additional day only 150$!)

Mondays & Tuesdays 6:30-8:30pm beginning 9/20/21
*Ages 12-20*

The Art of Being an Artist

Creating a piece of art is one thing. What to do with it next is another. Come learn what it’s like to live the life of a visual artist from beginning to end in this mixed media art class for 7th & 8th grade students. The sole requirement for this class is that you must have a passion for creating art. Students will be exposed to various types of mediums and techniques including painting, mask making, weaving, beading, stenciling and more. They will also learn how to prepare their work for exhibition and how to market oneself as an artist. Class will conclude with an exhibition of student work.
Tuesdays 4:30-5:45pm beginning 9/21/21

Introduction to Shakespeare

An introduction to the characters, stories and language of Shakespeare's plays, culminating in short scene performances.
Wednesdays 4:30-6pm beginning 9/22/21

Hip Hop Dance

Thursdays 4:30-5:30pm beginning 9/23/21
*Ages 9 - 14*

TEEN REP

The Teen Repertory Company is Oddfellows' senior performance ensemble, open to all young people ages 14 - 20. The Teen Rep generally stages two main stage productions every year (one in the fall, one in the spring) and focuses on classes, special projects and a New Plays Festival during the winter. The Teen Rep Company provides adventurous teens with performance opportunities not always available in the public schools - original work, ensemble-created projects, classics from various cultures, and theater for social justice. All teens are invited to audition, and everyone who commits to the rehearsal and production schedule is cast. There is a tuition charge to join the Teen Repertory Company, but financial aid is available for all families who need it.

Young people ages 13 - 20 can audition for our Teen Repertory Company on September 15 & 16, 6:30-9pm. Tuition is 300$

Rehearsals will be two evenings per week beginning the week of September 20 and our mainstage performances will be on November 11 - 13 & 19 - 20. Anyone interested in auditioning, or wanting more information, should contact the Playhouse at info@oddfellows.org or call (860) 347-6143

For more information, or to register for any of the above classes, auditions or events, go to www.oddfellows.org, email info@oddfellows.org, or call (860) 347-6143. Financial aid is available for all tuition-based programs; it is Playhouse policy never to turn anyone away because of inability to pay.

Oddfellows Playhouse productions, classes and special events are made possible with the generous support of the Connecticut Office of the Arts/DECD; Middletown Commission on the Arts; The Fund for Greater Hartford; American Savings Foundation; State of Connecticut Judicial Branch (Youth Violence Prevention); Middletown Youth Services Bureau; Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund; Middlesex United Way; CHEFA Cultural Relief Grant; New England Foundation for the Arts New England Arts Resilience Fund; Community Foundation of Middlesex County; Stare Family Fund; Evan Boyd Knoll Memorial Circus Fund; Community Development Block Grant; and many generous individual donors.

Spring classes and performance opportunities for kids range from circus, play writing and acting for teens to classes and performances for younger kids. Go to www.oddfellows.org for more info.

Petit Architect was born in 2017, with the mandate to make architecture more accessible to children and youth and inspire them to become educated citizens involved in their cities. Maia Tarassoff teaches fun, hands-on after-school programs and intervenes in schools, for all ages ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Her curriculum is focused on sustainability, social impact and energy efficiency. In parallel, she continues to work as a passive house and interior designer.

Fun Fall cooking classes, for five weeks, two hours each Tuesday morning, for children aged 5-9 years. We will be making peach gelato, ratatouille, tortilla and salsa, cannoli and filling plus butterfly cakes

OUR PATENTED RESULTS-DRIVEN PROGRAMS COMBINE ONE-ON-ONE LESSONS WITH GROUP BAND PRACTICES, MAKING SCHOOL OF ROCK THE ULTIMATE MUSIC SCHOOL FOR KIDS AND ADULTS

Spruill Center for the Arts is offering a wide variety of youth programs to complement students’ remote learning this fall. To help provide hands-on learning experiences during a virtual learning fall semester. 

Fall Break Camps

Weekday Afternoon Art Classes

Wonderful Wednesday School Break Day Camp

Thanksgiving Break Camp

Weekend Art Classes

Whether your child is looking for a place to start, or is already a seasoned performer, VYT’s classes are fun, engaging, and will foster a passion for acting, dance, musical theatre, storytelling, improvisation, and more. Classes are designed to develop a young performer’s stage presence while teaching life skills, enriching self-esteem, building confidence and communication, and creating an ensemble and community of VYT family.