“Art & Tea provides a space for us to meet other parents and know we are not alone in both the struggles and the joys of being special needs parents. This program really helps drive away the feeling of aloneness. It’s such a gift of grace!”
—Art & Tea Parent
For local families of young children with special needs, CATA’s new Art & Tea program has become a lifeline. Every month at CATA, families are finding a much-needed chance to connect, exchange resources, and feel seen and supported— all while enjoying fun arts activities together.
On the second Saturday of each month, CATA’s art studios transform into a creative playland for young children with disabilities. Children and their siblings dance to favorite tunes, play theater games with new friends, and create accessible art projects together. CATA’s professional faculty artists lead the activities, with adult CATA artists with disabilities serving as paid faculty assistants.
CATA Faculty Pam Levin and CATA artist Eric Schumann lead children in theater and dance games.
“We’ve heard from many families of young children with special needs that they often feel isolated—that they crave opportunities to have fun together and meet others who understand their experiences,” says Margaret Keller, CATA Executive Director. “We launched Art & Tea to help fill that need—and the response has been incredible.”
Thanks to a partnership with Families Like Ours (FLO), a local nonprofit led by Rania Markham, CATA is reaching more local families and learning about their needs. “Many families with young children with special needs have few spaces where they can truly relax and know they are understood and supported,” says Rania. “That’s the goal of Art & Tea—to provide them that space.”
A key to the success of this program: Listening. “We talk regularly with families and tailor the program to meet their needs,” says Kara Smith, CATA Program Director. “We want families to know that this is their space. They will always be met with support and acceptance.”
Behind the Scenes at Art & Tea
On a recent Saturday, a group of children and their siblings work with watercolors and clay in CATA’s visual arts studio. One boy paints a mask with adaptive brushes. Parents and caregivers sip tea and get to know one another. Two moms with autistic teenagers discuss high school options; others share challenges they faced finding community as homeschoolers.
{CROP & INSERT Kaleigh photo}
A new child, Kaylea, has come with her two siblings, and they are all excited to play together. “Art and dance are the ways that Kaylea relates to the world,” says her mother. “We’re so grateful to have this opportunity for her to thrive and have fun with her siblings.”
“The laughter, creativity, and connections that come out of Art & Tea gatherings are beautiful reminders of why this work matters so deeply,” says Rania. “I am so grateful for our partnership with CATA. Together, we’re creating experiences of joy and belonging that stay with families long after the party ends.”
{REPLACE WITH CHALKBOARD PHOTO as the start of a carousel}
Learn more about our upcoming Art & Tea programs on our Events Page. To register, contact Rania Markham at Rania@FamiliesLikeOursInc.com. Drop in’s are okay, too!
Thank you to the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation “South County Better Together” Fund as well as all the other incredible donors that make this program possible with their generous support. Thank you also to our local partner ExtraSpecialTeas in Great Barrington, who provides refreshments for this monthly program!
