Merced College’s College for Kids program is offering three summer classes at the Los Banos Campus, giving local children opportunities to create art, explore different cultures and continue learning while school is out.
The classes include the Art Lab, Arts and Crafts and Cultures Around the World. Each course offers a different experience, allowing families to choose the option that best fits their child’s interests or register for both morning and afternoon classes.
The Art Lab introduces children to painting, three-dimensional textures and mixed-media projects that combine art with simple science activities. Students will use traditional art supplies as well as unexpected materials such as marshmallows and salt.
Projects may include custom pet rocks, self-portraits and other original creations. At the end of each session, students will have the opportunity to display a favorite piece in a small gallery that celebrates creativity and builds confidence.
The Art Lab will be taught by Jacqueline Solis and offered during three separate weeks: July 6 through July 9, July 13 through July 16 and July 20 through July 23.
Each four-day session will meet Monday through Thursday from 10 to 11:50 a.m. The fee is $60 per session, and space is limited to 30 students.
Arts and Crafts is designed for students in grades 1 through 4. In this hands-on class, children will create projects using a variety of materials while developing their imagination. Activities include masking tape canvas art, coffee filter butterflies and colorful sun catchers.
The class gives students the chance to experiment with different materials and make artwork they can take home and share with their families.
Cultures Around the World is open to students in grades 1 through 8. Through interactive activities, children will learn about different countries, maps, languages, food traditions, clothing, celebrations and daily life. The class is designed to encourage curiosity and help students develop a greater understanding and respect for different cultures.
Arts and Crafts and the Art Lab are offered in the morning, while Cultures Around the World meets from 1 to 2:50 p.m. The schedule gives families the flexibility to choose one class or register their children for both a morning art course and the afternoon cultural class.
A child could spend the morning creating artwork and then spend the afternoon learning about traditions and communities from around the world.
All three classes will be offered during the weeks of July 6 through July 9, July 13 through July 16 and July 20 through July 23. The program gives families several scheduling options and allows children to attend for one week or return for additional sessions.
College for Kids gives young students the opportunity to learn in a college environment while participating in creative and age-appropriate activities. Attending a class at Merced College can make higher education feel more familiar and welcoming, while also giving children a structured way to stay active and engaged during summer break.
Registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and families are encouraged to register early because space is limited.
Families can register online at https://www.campusce.net/merced/course/course.aspx?catId=8.
For more information, they may contact College for Kids, Community Education at communityed@mccd.edu or call 209-386-6609.
