North Star Studio
Creative. Flexible. Supportive.
North Star Studio is an adaptive open studio experience at Eastern Iowa Arts Academy, designed to give children a welcoming place to explore art in a way that works for them.
We believe creativity thrives when people feel safe, supported, and understood. North Star was created to help make creative spaces more accessible to children with a wide range of abilities, communication styles, and sensory needs.
Art Without Pressure
Our open-ended art experiences invite children to explore, experiment, create, and discover at their own pace. There is no right way to participate—and there is no expectation to finish a project.
Children can choose from a variety of art-focused activities, including:
• Painting
• Shape and color exploration
• Open-ended art materials
• Guided projects
• Sensory-friendly creative activities
Participants are welcome to move between activities, take breaks, or simply observe. Choosing not to participate is always okay.
A Space to Move & Explore
North Star takes place in our gym space, giving participants room for flexible movement and helping reduce sensory overload.
Children are encouraged to move throughout the space and engage with activities in whatever way feels comfortable and meaningful to them.
Because creative exploration can get messy, we recommend wearing clothing that is comfortable for making art.
Caregivers Are Part of the Experience
North Star is a caregiver-supported program. Caregivers stay with their child throughout the session and play an important role in supporting communication, regulation, transitions, and safety.
You know your child best. Our staff will work alongside you to create a calm, positive, and supportive experience for your family.
Know Before You Go
We want your visit to feel as predictable and comfortable as possible.
Arrival: Families are encouraged to park in the back parking lot and enter through Door 6, located next to the gym. This provides a more direct and predictable path into the studio.
We also offer a social story with photos of our space and staff so families can see what to expect before they arrive.
Accessibility
We believe accessibility matters, and we want to be transparent about where we are today.
Our building was constructed in 1914 and is not currently ADA compliant. At this time, we do not have an elevator, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, or changing tables.
We are actively fundraising and planning for significant accessibility improvements, including an elevator and more inclusive facilities. Creating a more accessible home for our community is deeply important to us. Learn more about our plan and efforts!
Questions? We're Here.
Every child is different, and we know that families may have questions about what North Star can look like for their child.
If you'd like to talk with us about your child's needs or how we can best support your family, please reach out.
Jenna@EIAAProgram.org
We are honored to create alongside your family and look forward to growing North Star Studio—together.
