In the colorful state of North Carolina, where the blueberries are bouncier, the cats can play the banjo, and the trees whisper goodnight to the moon, an extraordinary thing happens. Every Saturday, right when the morning sun starts to play hide and seek with the fluffy clouds, a group of curious kids gather to dive into an adventure of pottery-making. Now, these aren't your ordinary kiddos, oh no! These are the Mud Munchkins of NC, a league of little hands creating big dreams. Our story starts with a delightful chap named Clumpy. Now, Clumpy isn't your average boy. He's a charming, giggly, and freckle-faced, clay-eating gnome, who's only taller than a stack of 32 pancakes (and yes, he’s counted!). He's got bright red hair that stands on end like a startled porcupine and a pair of twinkling eyes that hide a world of mischief. Clumpy is the Mud Munchkins' leader, their guide in this messy, but exhilarating journey of pottery-making. Every Saturday, Clumpy and the Mud Munchkins huddle around a magical potter's wheel, where a glob of gray clay transforms into a masterpiece under their tiny fingers. They mold, spin, and shape, giggling as the mud splashes their faces, turning them into mud monsters! There are flying pirates’ ships, towering princess castles, and even a snoring dragon with a lopsided smile. But the coolest part, you ask? Well, once their creations are baked under the midday sun, they don't just become pottery. Oh no! They become real! At least, that's what Clumpy says, whispering in each Mud Munchkin's ear. And when you're in North Carolina, where the sun smiles a little brighter and the wind sings lullabies, who's to say it isn't true?
Read morebest pottery programs in Highlands, NC

DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.

At Mountain Camp, we focus on creating an inclusive, noncompetitive environment where kids can learn, grow, and form lifelong friendships. We recognize the importance of skill-building and conflict resolution, and provide a wide range of activities and workshops that are tailored to each age group. Through arts and crafts, drama, music, campfires, outdoor survival skills, field games, low-ropes challenge courses, whitewater rafting, swimming, canoeing and hiking, kids are able to learn, explore, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves.