Cranford Business Launches Creative Summer Activities For Kids, Teens

CRANFORD, NJ — A Cranford art studio known for its sensory play and relaxed creative environment is rolling out new summer programs for both young children and teenagers, as families look for flexible activities during the summer months.

Art Cafe recently announced its new “Summer Studio Sessions” program for teens ages 13 to 18, which will run Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. beginning July 1. The business is also expanding its Mini Camp program for younger children ages 2 to 5.

Co-Founder Cory Dimitrakopoulos said the new programs were created after hearing directly from local families looking for more flexible summer options.

“Our community inspired the idea,” Dimitrakopoulos said. “We were receiving lots of requests from families asking for a flexible mini-camp experience for younger children, and we always try our best to listen and create programming that supports our community’s needs.”

Unlike traditional full-day camps, Art Cafe’s Mini Camp is designed as a shorter, low-pressure creative experience. Families can choose one or two days per week and attend for either one or two hours depending on their schedules.

“Our goal is to create the perfect complement to outdoor summer mornings in the backyard, at the playground or pool,” Dimitrakopoulos said. “A calm, creativity-filled afternoon where little ones can slow down, explore inspiring art play, and follow their own ideas.”

The studio’s summer programming builds on the approach Art Cafe has become known for during the school year — combining open-ended art exploration with sensory play in a calm environment designed for young children.

Each week focuses on a different iconic artist, with children exploring themes through process art, sensory stations, collaborative installations and guided projects.

“The atmosphere is intentionally relaxed, welcoming, and child-led,” Dimitrakopoulos said.

Children can move freely between different art stations while staff members — including art teachers and child development specialists — help guide activities and introduce new materials.

“We want kids to feel a sense of agency and self-efficacy when it comes to their art experience — just like grownup artists do,” Dimitrakopoulos said.

The studio also incorporates routines meant to help younger children feel comfortable and confident. At the end of sessions, lights are dimmed to signal cleanup time and children help tidy materials they used during the class.

“It gives little ones predictability, responsibility, and a sense of pride,” Dimitrakopoulos said. “Kids love being important helpers.”

Art Cafe’s new Summer Studio Sessions program is aimed at older students and teens looking for a more creative outlet during the summer.

The business says the goal is to continue offering a welcoming environment where families can slow down and spend time together while children explore art at their own pace.

“As a local small business run by moms and child development professionals, one thing we consistently hear from families is how comfortable their children feel in the studio,” Dimitrakopoulos said.

In addition to the art programming, the cafe serves coffee and tea from Boxwood Coffee Roasters in Westfield.

More information about the summer programs can be found at Art Cafe’swebsite.