Did you know?… Creative Action is the largest arts education organization in Central Texas, and for more than 20 years, they’ve provided arts enrichment and educational programs to 200,000+ youth and families. We’ve always been happy to show support for this awesome family-focused nonprofit, but it can be a little hard to grasp the broad scope and range of their services and programs — because they offer so many things! Read on for a big overview of Creative Action programs (many of which might be new to you) to find something that could be a great fit for your family…

Our minds were blown after talking with lovely fifteen-year-old, Adele, who has been in various Creative Action Programs since she was nine. When she told us about the teen programs she’s currently involved with, we had to stop and scratch our heads and admit that we didn’t even know that some of these programs are in the works. Adele’s experience from camps, to classes, to a teen filmmaking program has been a very positive one, noting it’s been a huge help in boosting her confidence.

“Children want to be creative, and this kind of program has something for everyone — art programs, theatre, film, music. The point is that the kids are happy, and they have a good time. They get to create something together. It helps boost confidence because you think ‘Hey I can make art, I’m good at this, I am good at something’. Creative action helps build that confidence.” — Creative Action Student, Adele

Creative Action is doing amazing things for the community. They deliver programming to six area school districts focusing on social emotional learning and social justice. Every program’s goal is to inspire young people as Creative Artists, Critical Thinkers, Courageous Allies, and Confident Leaders. While all Austin families have plenty of opportunity to take advantage of Creative Action events and programs, they strive to bring programs to communities with the greatest need, reaching young people in low-income urban public schools, rural school districts, public housing sites, and juvenile detention centers.

Check out these Creative Action Programs (many of which are FREE) and take advantage of these awesome resources for your family…

For Little Ones:  Parent & Child Music & Movement Classes
Give your little ones (ages 0-5) a creative foundation while you get to make connections with other parents, too! There are a variety of parent and child creative workshops throughout the year, designed for parents and children to work and learn together and play, dance, sing and move. All workshops are free with a suggested donation, and all new families are welcome to give it a try. For summer 2022, you can enjoy Music and Movement at Playdates in the Park from the Austin Parks Foundation.

Parent and Child Classes for 0-5 year olds

For School-Aged Kids: Camps, After School Programs
We’ve mentioned before how much we love Creative Action Camps, so this is just a friendly reminder. Creative Action was even the winner of “Best Camp” in the Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin” poll. You can sign the kids up for a camp session during summer or even on those occasional holidays off from school.

Creative Action also offers a high-quality after care program at 50 elementary school campuses in the Austin area. Click here to see the list of participating schools.

Such a variety of programs & camps for elementary students

For Teens: Youth Cinema Collective, Color Squad, Changing Lives Theatre Ensemble
Youth ages 14-18 come from every corner of Austin to form a select cohort that partners with local community organizations to produce plays, art installations, and films with community impact. In fact, teens are paid a stipend each semester for the valuable leadership and artistic work they contribute to their community. The three teen programs include:

  • Changing Lives is an ensemble of teen artist-activists that create and tour original, youth-led theatrical performances focused on violence prevention, healthy relationships, and social justice. Every spring the ensemble tours their original show across greater Austin at middle schools and in community settings. Learn more.
  • Youth Cinema Collective is offered in partnership with the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in which teens get experience in all areas of the filmmaking process — from script and storyboard to shooting on location. Learn more.
  • Color Squad is made up of civic-minded teen artists who actually get to transform public spaces with murals, sculptures, art installations, and more. Learn more.

Color Squad Teen Program

For Grandma & Grandpa: Continuing Creativity Program
Creative Action supports lifelong learning through arts-based classes for adults ages 65+, which growing research shows promotes social, physical, and cognitive health among older adults. Participants are encouraged to learn a new skill or explore an artistic field they’ve always wanted to try. This is also a free program. Learn more.

Continuing Creativity for ages 65+

For YOU & the Whole Family: Community Art Sunday, Kids Ball, Friend Fest
When you’re scanning our events calendar for ideas on what to do with the kids during the weekend, keep in mind that Creative Action hosts a variety of events each year that are simply just big fun gatherings for all ages. With special annual events at Central Market North Lamar such as the Kids Ball and Friend Fest, you’ll find a picnic/party atmosphere that is all inclusive, free, and open to all ages. During Community Art Sundays, you can enjoy live music, art activities and even free snacks (and free beer, if you’re so inclined). These are great ways to kick back with the kids and enjoy some free family fun. Check the events schedule.

Enjoy some family time together a variety of events

Where is Creative Action? The Center for Creative Action is located on the Springdale General campus at 1023 Springdale Road. This headquarters building includes a visual arts studio, a digital media lab, and a Teaching Artist workroom, and be the home base for future community events.

Want to learn more? Visit creativeaction.org and follow along on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and their blog. You can browse the website for plenty of info about programs, to enroll in classes, and other ways to get involved.