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Mission
- "TADA" is a sentiment of satisfaction, an exclamation of success, and an affirmation of self-worth experienced through accomplishment. "Tada" is often a word used to represent the end result of something. However, Tada, the company, seeks to reinforce the importance of process as a life ritual. Art should be regarded not as an innate skill touching few, but rather as a ritual which is part of human nature. Art is a basic need, which is as important and life sustaining as any nourishment. We believe that the child is the masterpiece and the art is the process.
Operational Philosophy
- The Tada team believes in every student's right to learn according to his or her own natural inclinations. We recognize that each individual brings his/her own learning style. We do everything in our power to meet the needs of every learning capacity Ò be it visual, auditory or kinesthetic. Art activities by their very nature tend to combine these learning styles into a cohesive and meaningful endeavor. Exposing children to the diversity of learning styles prepares them for future learning situations where they will be able to quickly acclimate according to their needs - just another life skill Tada programs instill! (For a complete explanation on experiential learning please refer to Kolb?s Four Stage Experiential Learning Model)
Goals and Objectives
- 1) Exposing children to the Empowerment that comes with creation. 2) Providing students with a secure environment for Self-Expression and Self-Evaluation: We seek to create a setting which gives your children the right to express themselves. Their growth in such an environment is inevitable, and rather than stand in the way, Tada's teachers operate as coaches, offering support, encouragement and enthusiasm. 3) Realizing the potential for Success in each moment (ie: how to set and accomplish goals): While the demands of a school dynamic may be hindering, we stress the importance of success. There is nothing your child cannot accomplish. 4) Exploring the meaning of ?Quality?: While we hope to reveal the potential for success in every moment of life, we also believe that success requires a certain quality of effort. 5) Cultivating impenetrable Self-Confidence: Children are encouraged to reach beyond self-imposed boundaries and to take measured risks via experiential learning. In an environment where mistakes do not exist, the ability to problem-solve is fostered and maintained as an ever important life skill. 6) Developing empathetic view towards others and responsibility for one?s actions: Establishing a safe- haven for expression must happen before any art-making takes place. Unacceptable treatment of peers is not tolerated. All language must reflect kindness and compassion. 7) Exploring the capabilities of the Right Brain: Research proves the importance of right-brain thinking in the world today. The job market is more competitive than ever, and new ways of fulfilling one's potential require forging ever-more ingenious and specialized niches (in addition to the importance of the more left-brain requirements of standardized test-taking).
Educational Structure
Class Description
- ALL CLASSES ARE TAUGHT BY ARTISTS OR THOSE PURSUING A CAREER IN THE ARTS! Courses during the school year meet once a week for four weeks. Summer courses meet three times a week for two weeks. Our basic structure for Dry and Wet media is as follows: Week 1: ?monsters? (getting to know your supplies and learning that there are no mistakes; creating something without fear, then learning to edit ?mistakes? until satisfied with the composition) Week 2: terms/techniques (emphasis on right-brain drawing exercises) Week 3: art history lesson which illustrates terms and techniques from Week 2 Week 4: still life, landscape, abstract, portrait (using all acquired skills) *Classes for younger students (3-5 years old) and older students (6-12 years old) differ in the detail of the content taught. Developmental differences are taken into account. See class descriptions for detailed examples.
Classes and Schedules
- Tada offers all classes for two-age groups: 1) ages 3-5 (45 minute classes); 8:1 student teacher ratio 2) ages 6-12 (90 minute classes); 12:1 student teacher ratio For questions regarding too-close-to-call birth dates, please contact Lauren Spiotta: 901.679.3543. Generally, classes will be held once a week depending on locations. Summer programs meet three times a week for two weeks with extended care options. *All classes and schedules are updated regularly and follow a 2 or 4 week schedule. For current information, please visit www.tada4arts.com, dial 901.679.3543, or look for one of our many hosting locations at private institutions. Flyers are also available in many ?kid-friendly? vendors throughout Shelby County.
Prices and Policies
- Tada classes are $40 for 4 weeks (ages3-5) and $80 for 4 weeks (ages 6-12) * An extra supply charge of $5 per class, per child is required for advanced classes - your child will keep many of the supplies he or she uses. Tada is not responsible for any apparel that meets its end during any of our classes. Parents are encouraged to sign up for the full 10 week curriculum in August to receive a 10% discount. Payments accepted: credit cards, cash, or checks. Credit cards may be used through the online site upon completion of the sign-up form. Credit cards may also be accepted at some Tada hosting sites. When in doubt ask! Refunds are negotiable.
How to SignUp
- Forms are available at all Tada hosting sites as well as online www.tada4arts.com. Or call Lauren Spiotta: 901.679.3543 All forms include the following: Contact information Emergency contact information Child-insurance information Accident Waiver and Release of Liability Form Method of payment Friends of Tada students who are new to Tada are given a free trial class. Referrals are rewarded!