Alfred’s Workshops at the Maison des arts de Laval: creative workshops that are a treat for kids and their parents

Steph Von Rob
Founder of the blog "Ma banlieue" and the "Ma banlieue" pop-up market

My life is not a smooth ride. As a mother of two, specialized educator and blogger, I am constantly looking for new challenges. I learn, I meet, I discover, and I write.

The Maison des arts de Laval is by far one of my whole family’s favorite places. There’s something for everyone there. The Théâtre des Muses offers a diverse program featuring unique artistic works in an intimate and comfortable setting. In addition to the magnificent performance hall, the Maison des arts de Laval also features several other spaces dedicated to creation, presentation, and exhibition, for both emerging and established artists.

We regularly attend shows for young audiences, but we had never participated in Alfred’s workshops. Very few people know that these workshops for young children accompanied by their parents are offered after every show in the young audience category. Space is limited. So it’s important to reserve your spot by presenting your show ticket to have the chance to participate in the workshop and take home a beautiful piece of art that your little ones will have created with their own hands.

The workshops are also offered as standalone activities tied to the current exhibition. We had the chance to participate in one of these workshops, and my kids still talk to me about it. Although they’re designed for young participants ages 5 and up, my youngest, who’s two and a half, was still able to create, in her own way, a piece similar to her sister’s. Accompanied by their grandfather, who wasn’t quite sure what I’d gotten him into, my daughters had a blast! Sitting with children of different ages in an environment conducive to interaction, my older daughters had to overcome their shyness and share materials to create a unique craft project related to the exhibition they had just visited before the workshop. At Alfred’s workshops, we work on social skills, raw materials, and imagination—nothing less!

I supported my children as they let their creativity flow, and it had been a long time since we’d felt this relaxed. I really enjoyed this little hour of art therapy, which allowed me to disconnect so I could better connect with my children. We often underestimate the power of the arts and the benefits of taking the time to let go and unleash our creativity without criticism or judgment. It did us a world of good, and my daughters couldn’t have been prouder of their crafts!

I invite you to check outthe schedule for Alfred’s workshops and Alfred’s Apprentices and sign up right away.