children's institute of culinary and domestic arts
A FUN place for your child to:
ENJOY learning a variety of valuable skills
DISCOVER a new hobby or creative passion
DEVELOP confidence & purpose
EMBRACE slow-everything
APPRECIATE & steward the Earth
WHO ARE WE?
FOUNDER: I’m a Village Grandma who wants to pass along traditional skills to the youth of today, just as my Grandma did for me.
I also happen to have spent my professional career in architectural and civil engineering design, with auxiliary training in alternative construction and utility forms. I’m an avid permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and resilience advocate.
Additionally, I’ve taught in both private & military education venues, in arts, sciences, multiple languages, and leadership…yes, I’m somewhat of a nerd and proud of it! 🤓
OUR VISION:
BIG PICTURE: Reintroduce the crafts and skillful workmanship of by-gone days to a new generation of future family and community leaders; to preserve the wealth of heritage; and, to perpetuate a lasting legacy…and, in the process, cultivate true inter-relational citizenship and a balanced appreciation for the resources that have been entrusted to us.
THE ‘HOW’: Without a doubt, our Vision is HUGE: Classes (over a 100), Children’s Ecovillage, 55+ Microhouse Community, and self-sustaining combination of re-entry dormitories with business/training storefront spaces.
Our first step is the lineup of fiber classes for youth 6-17, offered after-school, during school breaks, and evenings. And, we’re excited about a series of parent/child workshops in collaboration with local artisans…soon!
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” [Quote, Lao Tzu] Come, take the journey with us!
CLASSES & CALENDAR
More classes are in development! Stay up to date on IG @cicadakids
HOMESCHOOL:
SINGLE SESSIONS
(1-HR or 2-HRS)
2-DAY or 3-DAY SERIES
ONE-ON-ONE & GROUPS
WEEKDAYS or WEEKENDS
Nurture the Creativity Within Every Child
Fleece & Fur
Explore the vast array of natural (animal, insect, & plant) and manmade fibers which comprise our fabrics, their sources, and how to prepare them.
Spin & Twist
Whether fluffy fur or bast plant fibers, turning them into yarn is satisfying, exciting, and almost magical! Spindles, wheels, and e-spinners, oh, my!
Knits & Purls
Two pointy sticks and two simple stitches--a knit and a purl--yield infinite possibilities, from heirloom blankets to shawls, socks, and sweaters.
Hooks & Loops
Crochet, a French word meaning "hook," uses various weights of thread or yarn in loops to create couture clothing, heirloom lace, and popular stuffed amigurumi toys.
Over & Under (Weaving)
The perpendicular interlace of threads or yarns produce fabric for clothing, shelter, or decor. Explore both ancient and modern versions of the artisanal craft.
Knots & Rings (Mac & Tat)
Macrame and tatting are the macro and micro of the knotted world: from wall-sized curtains and artwork to hanging chairs to elegant earrings, knots are IN!
Fun AND Enriching
c.i.c.a.d.a. is geared towards youth, ages 6-17, based on desire, self-initiative, and attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research shows that children can learn at any age–and tend to soak knowledge like a sponge. The primary criteria is desire, followed by the ability to take instruction.
Absolutely!! Regardless of the reason a student is unable to come to us, we will coordinate a time to make it work for us to come to you! Email us to have that conversation. 😊
Children are capable of learning multiple new skills simultaneously, so we place no restrictions on how many courses a child may attend. In fact, we offer discounts for both multiple children within a family AND multiple courses per child.
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Still have questions?
If you find that the FAQs didn’t answer your question, please contact us with any questions or suggestions you may have:
General
Questions or suggestions:
Parents & Guardians
Register child(ren) for classes:
Vendor
Interested in collaboration, workshop (youth OR adult) coordination, or would like us to set up a vendor booth at a local fair or market:
