KCCA is designed for children approximately ages 6–12 who enjoy creating — or who need a little help believing that they can create. Projects are designed with enough artistic instruction to build real skills while leaving enough freedom for children to make independent choices.

No previous art experience is necessary. Every month includes real artistic instruction — drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, composition, color, line, texture and more — while leaving plenty of room for each child to make their own choices.

At the beginning of each month, families receive a simple supply list. Most materials are common art supplies many families already have at home (sketchbook, pencils, markers, watercolors, paper, scissors, glue), with advance notice for any specialty items. Affordable recommendations and shopping links are provided whenever possible. We also encourage a "Beautiful Junk Box" of collected collage treasures — free creativity!

It's a mix. Each month includes two professionally filmed Studio Exploration Projects your family can watch anytime, plus two LIVE "In the Studio with Kristin" sessions — relaxed, community-centered gatherings with creativity games, mini demonstrations, questions and artwork celebrations. Live times vary to accommodate different schedules.

No problem! Every live session is recorded and added to the Academy as a replay, so your family can watch (and create along) whenever it fits your schedule.

KCCA is designed to encourage increasing creative independence. Younger artists may need occasional help gathering materials or setting up, while older children may work almost entirely independently. Parents are encouraged to be interested observers and creative cheerleaders — not assistant art directors. And each month's Parent Connection Letter gives you conversation starters and encouraging language to use at home. You don't need to know anything about art to raise a creative kid.