Art for Youth Development
Field Trips
monca aims to make art education and creation accessible to community members of all ages and abilities. For kiddos, school field trips are a great way to delve into the arts.
During field trips, students are guided through the current exhibitions by a trained docent followed by time to create a curriculum-specific art project. Often, kids will express that it is their first time visiting monca. We hope field trips spark a lifelong commitment to the arts and self-expression, as evidenced by students often returning with family members to explore together. The museum also offers a grant program to help fund school field trips and bus fare. For staff and admin interested in applying for grant funding, please complete this form.
The Facts
In a study published in the National Library of Medicine about the role of arts in improving health and well-being, researchers found that “childhood engagement in arts activities can predict academic performance across the school years.” Continually encouraging artistic expression and curiosity will positively benefit kids throughout their personal and academic development. Art education is an opportunity to enrich learning in other areas. Think of the arts and creative processes as the glue that binds together ideas and concepts across subjects.
Non-judgement is essential to artistic growth and the solidification of confidence in children. At monca, we provide a safe and accepting place for art makers at all stages of their artistic identity. Given a chance to express in a welcoming environment, children will flourish and connect with each other on a deeper level.
Junior Board
The brand-new monca Junior Board consists of a group of local students committed to advancing monca’s mission to provide access to the arts for the sake of enjoyment, expression, social cohesion, innovation, and communication.
Junior Board members, guided by the expertise and mentorship of volunteer Kent Moore, and monca Executive Director, Pat Macias, provide feedback about youth engagement opportunities and create projects to bring monca’s goals to life.
From painting flag boxes to use in ceremonial flag burials to discussing potential teen events, the Junior Board inspires the museum to move forward with inclusion and innovation in mind.
Accessibility
Youth of all ages and abilities are welcome at monca. If you have specific accessibility needs or are curious about collaborating with the museum to host youth-centric events, please call or visit us!
Join Us
Get your family and loved ones involved by attending events at the museum like Teen Open Mic Nite, Art Club for homeschoolers, puppet shows, and dance classes.
monca is honored to support the next generation of artists and makers through Field Trips, Family-Friendly Community Events, Student Music Recitals, and beyond!