Evolving After-School Programs
Evolving After-School Programs: Why Art Education Needs a Digital Revolution
As parents and caretakers, we often look for after-school activities that will help our kids grow, express themselves, and develop skills they can use for life. Traditionally, art programs have been a great outlet for creativity, whether it’s painting, drawing, or playing an instrument. But in 2024, as technology continues to redefine how we live and work, art programs need to evolve too. The way people make art has changed, and after-school programs need to catch up by integrating digital tools and techniques.
When we think of “art,” many of us still picture canvases and brushes, but today, a huge portion of creative work is done on computers. Graphic design, digital illustration, music production, and video editing are just a few examples of how art has moved into the digital realm. Kids are growing up in a world where being able to navigate software like Davinci Resolve, Affinity Pro, and Ableton Live is just as important as knowing how to sketch with a pencil or play the guitar.
Many schools and after-school programs still rely heavily on traditional art instruction, leaving a gap between what kids are learning and what they could be exploring. As parents, we want to give our kids access to the tools that will let them create, not only in ways we understand but in the ways they’re growing up with. That’s where modern after-school programs like ConnectEd Tech & Gaming come in.
By offering classes in video editing, music production, and graphic design, programs like ConnectEd Tech & Gaming introduce children to the world of digital creation. These aren’t just fun activities—they’re skills that will be in demand for years to come. And for the kids? It’s empowering. It allows them to create in ways that feel relevant and exciting. They’re not just learning how to draw; they’re learning how to design logos, craft their own videos, and compose their own music—all from their laptops.
This shift toward digital creation doesn’t mean traditional art should disappear. There’s always a place for hands-on, tactile creativity. But it’s time we recognize that kids today have the tools and the interest to do so much more. As parents and caretakers, it’s important to seek out programs that give them the freedom to explore these new avenues of expression.
If after-school programs are to remain relevant and beneficial, they need to reflect the way art is being made in the 21st century. It’s not about abandoning the old ways but embracing the new and giving our children every opportunity to thrive in the digital world. After all, isn’t the point of art to allow creativity to flourish, no matter the medium?
