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Yak Packers: Early Childhood Art Making

Early Childhood Art-Making

Wednesdays 10:30″“11:30 a.m.
Ages 2″“4

*Please note the Yak Packer program is being discontinued. There will be no Thursday classes starting August 20, 2015. Wednesday classes will continue through October 28, 2015. Please join us for our Family Sunday drop-in program every Sunday from 1 – 4PM.

The Yak Packers look at, touch, and explore Himalayan art inspired by the Museum’s collection. Classes include play, storytelling, trips to the galleries, and art making activities.

Each week’s class runs on the same schedule with rotating themes throughout the year. Some themes include: lines, patterns, colors, flowers, and shapes.

Schedule

10:30 a.m. Community Building
Free time to play with blocks, magnets, and games related to the day’s theme.

10:45 a.m. Story Time
Find a pillow and join in an interactive read along.

10:55 a.m. Gallery Visit
Explore the galleries together on a search for the day’s theme!

11:10 a.m. Art Making
Come back to the classroom and get your hands on some art materials! Make an artwork or craft project based on our daily theme.

Tickets

$15 includes class and gallery admission for one adult and one child. Regular admission fees apply for additional participants. 10% off for members. Free to children under 1 year.

Buy Tickets

Tickets for this class tend to sell out, to ensure your space we recommend purchasing tickets in advance.

When purchasing tickets online, please note that the ticket is labeled “Adult + Child.” An “Adult + Child” ticket must be purchased for each participating child, even if there are fewer adults participating in the program. Additional “Adult” tickets may not be purchased in advance, but may be purchased at the admissions desk at the Education Center on the day of the event.

Tickets include gallery admission and are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. All programs are subject to change. All programs begin in the Education Center located at 132 West 17th Street.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yak Packers

What can I expect in a Yak Packers class?

Here’s a schedule of a typical class:

10:30-10:45 a.m.: Community building through creative play
10:45-10:55 a.m.: Story time and introduction to theme of the day
10:55-11:10 a.m.: Gallery visit
11:10-11:25 a.m.: Art-making
11:25-11:30 a.m.: Clean-up and ring bell

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What are the goals of the Yak Packers class?

Each Yak Packers class is designed for both the child and the adult to actively engage with one another and be active participants in class activities. It is also a goal of Yak Packers to introduce children to a structured class environment. They will not only be introduced to a variety of art-making techniques and materials, but will also practice social skills and learn appropriate museum behaviors, like using whispering voices and staying with their accompanying adult.

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Why is it required that both child and adult participate in all Yak Packer activities?

We strongly believe that young children learn best with the presence and support of a significant adult. Your enthusiasm and participation will encourage your child to be fully engaged in class.

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How do I know if my child is ready for Yak Packers?

Children adjust to social environments each at unique rates. First experiences in a class setting can be uneasy for some children, but there are several tips you can follow to help your child feel comfortable in class:

  • Arrive on time. Joining activities when they are already in progress can only create more unease for your child.
  • Attend Yak Packers classes on a regular basis. Repetition of class routines can reinforce concepts and help your child learn what to expect in each class.
  • Plan out your naps and snack schedules, so that your child is able to focus during class.
  • Encourage your child’s participation through your own participation!

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What do I do if my child gets upset during class?

Although we stay as a group during Yak Packers, please always feel free to take a few minutes away from the class to help your upset child recollect his/her self and participate upon return.

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Are older or younger siblings allowed to come to Yak Packers?

Although we have no rules against bringing siblings (with tickets), it is advised that each adult only bring one child for a better Yak Packers experience.

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Can I bring my stroller into the galleries?

Yes. Strollers are allowed in the galleries. If you would prefer not to bring your stroller with you to the galleries, you may leave it safely at the front check-in area of the Education Center.

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