Children's Museum of the Arts

Activity Overview

The Children's Museum of the Arts in New York's South Village is a non-profit facility which aims to engage the creativity of young learners between the ages of 10 months and 15 years. They organize a range of art based projects for kids that teach them various techniques and mediums. They especially try and reach under-privileged and marginalized communities with their work. They have a museum along with a range of play and artistic areas where children can get hands-on.

Things to Do

• The CMA's museum combines a permanent collection of children's artworks with the works of established, adult artists. The museum is designed to give the children inspiration and a love of art.
• There are a few different workshops where children can get first-hand experience of a few different types of art. The Media Lab encourages children to grow their skills with animation, set building, digital photography and stop motion filmmaking.
• Another section of the Media Lab features the Clay Bar where children can make whatever they choose out of clay. The Sound Booth opens up the world of sound recording to young minds.
• For those interested in the traditional arts there is the Fine Arts Studio where children can learn about painting drawing, textile and sculptures.
• The Wee Arts Studio is aimed specifically at children aged 5 and under. Here they are introduced to various arts and performance arts like drumming, drawing, painting and music.
• Finally the Ball Pond is a room filled with giant balls where children can play freely. Times are divided by age group

Children's Museum of the Arts Insider Tips

• Whatever your child makes you are free to take home with you.
• The CMA has a store where you can buy all kinds of arts sets and presents for budding young artists.
• Free Summer Programs are held on Governor's Island every Saturday and Sunday from May through until September.