The Creative Expression Studio: Friday Sessions

A boutique weekly art program for kids ages 9–12 in downtown Phoenix - Available as a morning homeschool session or afternoon afterschool session

This is not a typical art class focused on copying projects or following step by step instructions.

At The Creative Expression Studio, children are guided to develop their own creative voice through layered art journaling, hands-on skill building and grounding practices that help them arrive, slow down and express freely.

Each session introduces a new art technique, from watercolor and mixed media to ink and clay, woven into an ongoing personal art journal that grows with them throughout the program. Guided reflection prompts help students explore what they created and why, building emotional awareness alongside artistic confidence.

Every child receives their own art journal to continue their practice at home between sessions.

The focus is always process over perfection.

  • 📅 Starting: Friday September 4, 2026

    ⏰ Time: 1:30 - 3:30pm

    👧 Ages: 9–12

    👥 Max 10 students

    📍 Downtown Phoenix studio — 115 W McDowell Road

    💰 $150 per month

    ✅ ESA approved — ClassWallet accepted

  • 📅 Starting: Friday September 4, 2026

    ⏰ Session: 4:00pm – 6:00pm

    👧 Ages: 9–12

    👥 Max 10 students

    📍 Downtown Phoenix studio — 115 W McDowell Road

    💰 $150 per month

    ✅ ESA approved — ClassWallet accepted

Pre-Register Here

  • CREATIVITY

    Each session introduces a new art technique such as watercolor, ink, collage, mixed media and clay and gives students real skills while encouraging them to create in their own unique way.

  • GROUNDING

    Every Friday session begins with gentle grounding to help students decompress from the school week, arrive in their body and get ready to create from a calm and present place.

  • CONNECTION

    Students become part of a small consistent community of 10 where every voice matters, every journal page is celebrated and every child feels seen and supported without pressure or comparison.

  • GROWTH

    Beyond art skills your child builds emotional awareness, confidence and a personal creative practice they can return to anytime through their art journal which they keep and continue at home.

Meet the Instructor

Aimee Combs, Founder of Lotus Creative Healing

Hi, I’m Aimee, a mom, certified art teacher, and passionate creative who believes in creative expression to help kids grow in confidence and emotional wellness. From one parent to another I'm not just a teacher, I’m also a mom to a preteen who requires consistent emotional regulation support. I created this program out of love and necessity to provide something I knew my child needed and that other families would benefit from too.

I bring a unique blend of education, experience, and heart to every class I teach. I hold a:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Art Studies

  • K–12 Art Teaching Certificate

  • Certified Art Therapy Practitioner credential

  • Creative Depth Coach Certificate

  • Registered Yoga Instructor Certification

In addition to creative expression art programs for pre-teens, I teach art at a hybrid school for homeschoolers on elective days, where I lead weekly classes for grades PreK–6th. I’ve also taught a variety of after-school programs including one at a school for gifted children and served as the lead art director for an art auction fundraiser at my child’s school. Read more about my journey here.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions FAQs:

  • This program blends art skill building with intentional creative expression and grounding. It is designed to help kids process the school week, develop emotional awareness and build a personal creative practice, not just complete art projects.

  • No prior experience is needed. This camp is designed for all skill levels, with a focus on exploration, creativity, and self-expression.

  • This is not formal therapy. However, the experience is intentionally designed to support emotional expression, self-awareness, and confidence through creative practices.

  • Each week is limited to 10 students to maintain a boutique, personalized experience.

  • Just a water bottle and a nut-free snack. All art supplies and materials are provided. Please dress your child in clothes that can get a little messy — we create freely here.

  • Yes! I’m an approved vendor through Arizona’s ESA program, and I accept payments via ClassWallet.

    We are also working on expanding to other states and encourage you to check with your ESA provider to see if self-submitted reimbursement is an option in your area. If you'd like your state accepted please let us know so we can try being approved for your specific state.

    For more information, click here.

  • $150 per month per child regardless of which session they attend.

  • Written cancellation notice must be provided 14 days before the start of the next month. Cancellations made less than 14 days in advance will be charged for that month. There are no refunds for missed sessions but makeups may be available based on availability.

Homeschool Session FAQs:

  • Every Friday from 1:30pm – 3:30pm starting September 4, 2026.

  • Yes. Each session includes structured art instruction, guided journaling and reflection time that supports creative development, emotional awareness and fine arts education.

  • Each child requires a separate registration. Siblings are welcome as long as spots are available.

Afterschool Session FAQs:

  • Every Friday from 4:00pm – 6:00pm starting September 4, 2026.

  • Each child requires a separate registration. Siblings are welcome as long as spots are available.