Introducing Creative Outlets: exceptional afterschool for K-5
Based on community feedback, we are excited to debut a K-5 extended after school program for the 2026-27 school year!
What makes Creative Outlets exceptional?
- 5:1 maximum student to staff ratio
- active outside play
- improv and cooperative games
- creative art activities
- quiet reading/HW room with support
- add-on programs in ceramics, painting, comics and more!
When & Where
The Creative Outlets program is for the full academic year, aligned to the Melrose Public Schools calendar. Select one, two, or three days of after-school creative enrichment programming, from 2:30-5:30PM. Available days are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
The after-school programming will take place in the FYA Annex (next door to The Big Yellow House at the First United Methodist Church), where we have the space to spread out and get creative! And with a playground right around the corner, we’ll also be spending time outside, rain, snow, or shine.
What’s Included
This new after-school program will provide supervision and high-quality creative programming in a structured, nurturing environment in downtown Melrose. With a low student/staff ratio of at most 5:1, students will have the opportunity to explore a multitude of creative forms that include different visual art mediums, poetry, theatre games, and much, much more. All supplies are included and a small nut-free snack will be available.
Amp up your creative time with discounted add-on classes!
Participants in the Creative Outlets after-school program can add on a Follow Your Art class for a small additional fee. Eligible add-on programs are the studio art, theatre, and pottery classes taking place at the same time as the after-school program. Since they’ll already be at Follow Your Art, we can get your students to their creative class where they can delve even deeper!
Pricing
Pricing depends on the number of days your child attends the afterschool program and will be billed monthly. The program runs September 8th through June 16th.
Select from the following number of days for your student for the core afterschool program:
- One day per week: $175/student
- Two days per week: $350/student
- Three days per week: $525/student
Add-on classes:
Additional details about add-on classes will be announced soon. Registration for add-on classes will be possible for class sessions throughout the school year.
FAQs: other things to know
Transportation is not provided. When registering, please indicate your child’s school and whether you would be interested in carpooling and we will try to help you connect with other families
Cancellation Policy: An initial commitment of three months is requested. Beginning in 2027, to withdraw from the program, please notify info@fyamelrose.org in writing by the 10th of the month to withdraw for the next month.
Signing up for bonus classes: Participants in the after-school program can take part in FYA session classes happening during their time at Follow Your Art. A discount code will be emailed to you and sent home with your child for each new session of FYA classes. Sign up with your discount code, and we’ll make sure they make it to their class on that day of their after school program. View current Follow Your Art programs.
What should my child bring? Please send your child with weather-appropriate clothing as we will spend time outside. A small nut-free snack will be available, but please send an additional (nut-free) snack if your child will need one.
Other questions? Please email info@fyamelrose.org or call (781)665-4140 if you have additional questions.
About Us
Centrally-located in downtown Melrose, Follow Your Art Community Studios is a nonprofit community arts center that responds to the needs of its creative community. In addition to classes for all ages and abilities, the arts center is the creative home to three dozen creatives in residence, and a venue for live performances.