USF Creative Kids Art Studio (Grades 3-5)

A fun, creative summer art experience for 3rd–5th graders to experiment with pottery, sewing, recycled art, STEAM & crafts at USF Tampa!

At Creative Kids Art Studio, students dive into different creative themes each day from pottery and sewing to game-day crafts, recycled art, and STEAM projects. Kids will explore a variety of mediums including clay, felt, fabric, beads, paints, perler beads, and recycled materials to build unique projects. Whether they’re molding pinch pots, sewing sculptures, designing board games, painting decorations, or constructing recycled pet shelters: campers get hands-on, mess-friendly, and imaginative art experiences that help build creativity, confidence, and collaboration skills.

Over the week, campers will work on multiple projects, experimenting with different materials and techniques. The flexible format lets each child create at their own pace and finish with several pride-worthy works to take home.

Creative Kids Art Studio Details

Camp Director: Gena Ezzi

Location: USF Tampa

Grade Levels: Rising 3rd - 5th

Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM

Dates: TBD

Cost: TBD

What to Expect

Make & Create

Campers explore a variety of hands-on art projects, including pottery, sewing, jewelry making, textile crafts, mixed media, and recycled art. Each day introduces a new medium so campers can try different techniques and discover what they enjoy most.

Crafting Materials Provided

All materials are provided, including polymer clay, felt, beads, fabric squares, perler beads, thread, paint, and more. Instructors guide campers through safe, creative use of tools as they build confidence with each new craft.

Grow Your Creative Skills

Projects help campers build fine motor skills, creativity, planning, and problem-solving. With a mix of quick crafts and multi-step builds, campers learn how to explore ideas, try new processes, and express themselves through art.

Encouraging, Hands-On Instructors

Campers create in a fun, mess-friendly studio space with caring instructors who encourage exploration and independence. Every camper can work at their own pace and choose projects that match their interests.

This camp gives young artists a chance to explore multiple art forms in one exciting week. With guided instruction, creative freedom, and take-home projects they’re proud of, campers walk away inspired and confident in their artistic abilities.

Campers at Creative Kids

Useful Information

Registration and Program Details

When does registration open for Creative Kids Art Studio?

Registration for all 2026 summer camps will open on February 1, 2026.

What is the capacity of Creative Kids Art Studio?

Each session of the Creative Kids Art Studio has a capacity of 30.

Where is the Creative Kids Art Studio located?

The Creative Kids Art Studio is located on the USF Tampa campus. We will share the exact camp location closer to the start date, and all details will be emailed to you in advance.

After registering for the Creative Kids Art Studio, when will I start receving logistical details including drop-off and pick-up?

You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at the Creative Kids Art Studio.

Do campers need to pack lunch and snacks?

Yes. Campers should bring a packed lunch, snacks, and a refillable water bottle each day.

Staff & Safety

Who are the USF Faculty/Staff who will be leading the Creative Kids Art Studio?

The Creative Kids Art Studio is led by USF staff member Gena Ezzi, an arts teacher with 15 years of experience working with elementary students. We maintain a 10:1 camper-to-staff ratio, and the two additional staff supporting the program are also certified teachers.

Are staff background-checked and trained?

Yes. All staff undergo Level 2 background checks and complete USF’s youth protection and safety training.

How are medications handled during camp?

We ask families to share any medical information that our staff should be aware of to help keep your child safe. Our team does not hold, offer, or administer medications at any time. If a medical emergency occurs, staff will provide basic support while immediately contacting emergency services (911).

Cancellation & Changes

What is the cancellation, transfer, and refund policy for USF Youth Experiences programs?

If you need to cancel or transfer a camp registration, please email youthxp@usf.edu.

Cancellations or transfer requests received at least 15 business days prior to the camp start date will be eligible for a refund or transfer to another available camp, minus any administrative or processing fees. Cancellations or transfer requests received within 15 business days of the camp start date are not eligible for a refund or transfer. No refunds will be issued after a camp has begun, regardless of the number of days attended or participation level. No refunds will be issued if a participant is dismissed from camp due to a violation of the camp’s conduct policy or code of behavior.

We make every effort to run all camps exactly as scheduled. In the unlikely event it becomes necessary to cancel, postpone, or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. If USF cancels a camp, you will receive a full refund. If USF reschedules a camp, you will have the option to receive a full refund or transfer to the new session.

Take a look at photos from last year's Creative Kids Camp!

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