What I’ve Learned Teaching Art to Kids in Oakland Schools

Hello Beautiful People!

There’s something special about walking into a classroom full of kids with a stack of art supplies and a plan.

And there’s also something unpredictable about it.

I’ve been teaching art to kids in Oakland and surrounding schools for years now, and one thing I can say for sure is this:
no two classes are ever the same.

Some days, everything goes exactly how I planned.
Other days, we pivot halfway through and end up creating something completely different — and somehow, those are the days that stick the most.

What I’ve learned is that art isn’t just about the final project.

It’s about:

• kids learning to follow multi-step directions
• building confidence when something doesn’t come out “perfect”
• trying again instead of giving up
• taking pride in something they created with their own hands

I’ve seen students go from “I can’t do this” to showing off their work with the biggest smile on their face.

And that shift? That’s the real goal.

Art creates space for kids to slow down, think differently, and express themselves in ways they don’t always get to during the school day.

It’s not just paint and paper.

It’s:

• problem-solving
• patience
• creativity
• confidence

And honestly? It’s one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

Whether it’s a structured lesson or a moment of creative freedom, I’ve learned that when you give kids the tools and the space, they will always surprise you.

And that’s why I keep showing up.

 

Love, 

Ms Mary