Kaleidoscope Foundation sees confidence and emotional growth in children
An arts charity is noticing signs of burnout in young people – and offering a creative solution.
Through its engaging programming, Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation is giving children autonomy through art, helping them build confidence, emotional regulation, and resilience.
“It’s amazing what we learn from children when we just let them be who they are,” said Njeri Asha, Creative Minds Director at Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation.
The charity encourages children to create, explore, and express themselves through the creative process, play, and nature-based learning.
In an age marked by tech dependence, burnout, and economic strain, the charity says nurturing and empowering children is more critical than ever.
Danielle Frith, Operations Manager of Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation explained, “One of the big things we’re seeing is burnout. We’re seeing a lot of children, a lot of adults feel burnt out and without choice in a lot of things that they’re going through and those things can be really hard. And by being here, we allow children to develop those choices.”
She continued, “We see that there’s a lot of needs on the island, whether that’s financial, whether that’s emotional or physical needs and so we’re trying to develop the individual to make sure they are able to full embody themselves and get to grow into healthy adults.”
Kaleidoscope serves children from 18 months to 18 years old through classes, camps, workshops, and community partnerships.
Their mission is to guide little ones into becoming capable, expressive adults by providing a safe space for them to grow.
In her own classrooms, Ms Asha has observed growth in students from term one to term three.
“Many children are able to self-regulate; they are able to express themselves even more,” she said. “They are able to communicate not just with their classmates, but with other adults in the room. They are able to better have a balance or grasp on their fine motor skills.”
Despite the vibrant environment of Kaleidoscope’s current location – filled with colourful classrooms and a whimsical outdoor space – the charity cannot call it their own. They are now appealing to the public for support in securing a permanent spot.
“We do not currently own where we are staying right now, unfortunately,” said Ms Frith. “We love the space but we would love to have support in finding our forever home.”
“It would definitely have to be somewhere that will have a garden,” Ms Asha added. “Our garden has evolved over time, but it’s quite enchanting and it feels like we’re in an oasis in the middle of Devonshire and the children just love being here.”
Looking ahead, the charity hopes to sustain its positive impact for years to come.
Ms Frith added, “Since our founding, we have been able to serve 10,000 children and luckily have been able to serve 1000 every year for the last couple of years — we really want to encourage that to continue.”
The foundation welcomes both financial support and donations of supplies – especially recycled materials. Items like cereal boxes, tin cans, paper towel rolls, and newspapers can go a long way in supporting their hands-on learning approach.
For more information visit, Kaleidoscope Arts.
