This is a play-based, sensory-rich art playgroup designed to cultivate creativity, connection, and
enrichment for our community’s youngest children and their caregivers. This class is sold as a
one month package, with each week offering new sensory opportunities and skill-building play
opportunities for your littles. Activity stations will be thoughtfully designed and set up in the Old
Art Building’s big room.
We will explore paint, water, playdough, pretend play, and other messy introductions to art and
art materials. Sensory and creative play supports healthy brain development, problem solving,
and self regulation. Caregivers are encouraged to play alongside their children, helping them to
explore the materials. While some stations will offer taste-safe and non-toxic play options, this
class is best suited for young ones who are starting to understand that some items aren’t for
their mouth. This class is a great opportunity to teach toddlers and preschoolers how to safely
use art materials and mediums. Dress for messy play!
Preschool/Caregiver Art Play With Tracy
15 months - 4 years (+ caregiver)
Mondays, 10:30 ~ 11:30 AM
September: 16, 23, 30
$75
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
$100
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
$100
December: 2, 9, 16
$75
Meet Tracy
Tracy Smedes-Hepler is a former teacher and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with 13 years experience as a preschool teacher at the Leelanau Children’s Center. She has been a mother and nanny for over 22 years! Her love of the arts and creativity inspired her to launch an arts exploration business, Tearwater T, which aims to provide art programming to local children. After a successful first year, she is excited to begin her second year engaging with the youth in her community this school year as a creativity mentor and process-arts teacher at the OAB.