In the majestic land of Massachusetts, known to the locals as MA, there's a curious crew of imaginative kids, buzzing with creative energy. It's rumored that a splash of magic from the legendary Beacon Hill unicorn’s horn mixed with the salty air of Cape Cod turns ordinary children into extraordinary artists. Meet our dynamic gang of Visual Arts virtuosos, led by the ever-whimsical, paintbrush-sword-wielding captain, Doodle McSmear. This group of MA moppets aren't your everyday kids - they're creative wizards, just like you! They see not just a pumpkin, but the canvas for an award-winning, ear-to-ear grinning Jack-o'-lantern. They see not just a pile of snow, but the fortress of a snow queen or the lair of a frosty dragon. Doodle McSmear, with his paint-splattered cape and rainbow beret, is a sight to behold. His hair, always pointing in all directions, is streaked with vibrant hues from a freak accident involving a kaleidoscope and a paint can. But, as Doodle would say, there’s no such thing as accidents in art, only happy surprises! These MA kids turn every day into an artistic adventure, from painting murals on the shores of Martha’s Vineyard, sculpting masterpieces from Berkshire’s clay, to tracing constellations on sheets of paper under the starlit Boston sky. They believe that art isn't just about pretty pictures; it's a way of life, a language that speaks to the heart. So, come on over to MA, grab your paintbrush, crayon, or whatever magic tool you have, and join Doodle and the gang. Let's create, let's laugh, and let's add more color to the world!
Read morebest visual-arts programs in Pittsfield, MA
Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
At 18 Degrees, we strive to meet the needs of children, young people, and families in Western Massachusetts. As the sun rises just below the horizon, we know that it is our mission and privilege to be a part of the promise that the light will grow from the start of each new day. We offer a variety of programs and services that promote the well-being and strengths of children, youth, and families to build better communities. Our programs cover early education and care, foster care and adoption, child and family well-being, and youth and community development. We believe that by providing education, parenting skills and support, prevention and intervention, advocacy, and life skills, we can help to create brighter futures for those we serve.
The Albany Berkshire Ballet has a rich and varied history. It began in the mid-1950s with the Cantarella School of Dance in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Founded by Artistic Director Madeline Cantarella Culpo, the school advanced its students to the Berkshire Ballet Guild in 1960. This led to the formation of the Berkshire Civic Ballet in 1969, which then became the Berkshire Ballet and eventually the Albany Berkshire Ballet in 1989. The Albany Berkshire Ballet is now a 501 nonprofit performing company. The Albany Berkshire Ballet has a legacy of excellence, having trained and presented dancers at all levels of proficiency. Artistic Director Madeline Cantarella Culpo and the Cantarella School of Dance formed the foundation of this progress. The school's advanced students were presented with an opportunity to perform in the Berkshire Ballet Guild in 1960. This rapidly evolved into a professional company and in 1969 the Berkshire Civic Ballet was formed. The company has since expanded to become the Albany Berkshire Ballet in 1989. The Albany Berkshire Ballet is a recognized 501 nonprofit performing dance company. It has provided dancers with exceptional training and has presented shows at all levels of proficiency. With a history stretching back to the mid-1950s, the company has grown and evolved through the years, thanks to the vision of Artistic Director Madeline Cantarella Culpo. The school's advanced students were presented with an opportunity to perform in the Berkshire Ballet Guild in 1960, which then expanded into the professional company known today as the Albany Berkshire Ballet.