Once upon a time, in the bustling, enchanting state of Connecticut, also known as the Nutmeg State, a group of vibrant, innovative kids embarked on a whimsical adventure. This wasn't your ordinary adventure; no, these Connecticut kiddos were on a journey of creative self-discovery in the world of pottery! Our tale's narrator is a cool, hip squirrel named Nutty, who wears a painter's beret and loves spinning pots as much as spinning tales. Nutty is a pottery whizz and has a keen eye for detail. He could craft a mug with his eyes closed and one paw tied behind his back. He has a hearty laugh, which sounds like the crackling of autumn leaves, and he likes to joke, "I may be Nutty, but my pots are always in 'mint' condition." The Connecticut kids, or the "Clay Crusaders" as they proudly call themselves, were as diverse as the state's landscapes. From the sandy beaches to the forested highlands, each kid brought unique ideas to the pottery wheel. There was Billy, who loved making vases inspired by Long Island Sound's waves, and Maya, who crafted bowls reminiscent of the Nutmeg's seed. And let's not forget, Sammy, who could shape clay into the spitting image of Nutty himself, much to the squirrel's delight and amusement. Whether they were shaping, spinning, or painting, these kids' laughter echoed across Connecticut, spreading joy and creativity in their wake. The Clay Crusaders and Nutty the squirrel had the best of times, discovering that with a lump of clay, a dashing sense of fun, and a sprinkling of nutmeg, you can create not just pottery, but memories that last forever.
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The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.

At Arts Center East, we believe that the arts are an essential part of life. We strive to create a safe, creative space where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to explore their creative sides. We offer a variety of workshops, classes, and events for all ages, encouraging creative exploration and the development of skills and knowledge. We hope to engage the entire community in the celebration of art in all its forms.