What is Doodles Academy All About?
- Kaila Piepkow
- Apr 8
- 2 min read
At Doodles Academy, we believe in the transformative power of art. Not just as a means of creative expression, but as a vital tool for literacy, critical thinking, and community connection. Through our three core programs, we integrate art into education in meaningful, engaging ways—ensuring every child has access to high-quality, arts-based learning.
Art-iculate!—Out-of-School Programming
Imagine an afterschool program where students aren’t just coloring inside the lines—they’re exploring big ideas, making connections, and telling their own stories through art. That’s the heart of Art-iculate! This program blends a thoughtfully designed curriculum with hands-on professional learning, giving educators the tools and confidence to integrate art into out-of-school settings. By weaving together art, literacy, science, and math, Art-iculate! makes a perfect fit for afterschool programs funded by out-of-school grants.
Through a combination of hands-on training and ongoing mentorship, educators build their skills while students dive into multi-day projects that expand their vocabulary, spark discussions, and encourage personal expression.
We’ve put this to the test through partnerships like Ann Arbor Rec And Ed afterschool programming, where students engage with art in ways that enrich their overall learning experience.
Art of Early Education—Nurturing Young Creators
For our youngest learners, art is more than an activity—it’s a language. Art of Early Education is designed for children aged 2.5-6, helping them develop early literacy and cognitive skills through creative exploration.
In our current partnership with the YMCA, we’re shifting away from traditional craft-based activities and introducing open-ended projects that allow each child’s voice to shine. Using diverse materials, sensory-rich experiences, and interactive storytelling, this program nurtures curiosity, self-expression, and emotional growth—all while reinforcing essential literacy skills.
Art isn’t just for the classroom—it belongs in our communities. That’s why I’m currently working on our mural project at my own daughter’s preschool, bringing art into shared spaces where it can inspire, educate, and create a sense of belonging. Projects like this reflect our mission at Doodles Academy: making art accessible and meaningful in all areas of life.
Artistry of Literacy—Transforming In-School Learning
Inside the classroom, we’re bridging the gap between literacy and visual art through The Artistry of Literacy. Designed for 1st–5th graders, this program aligns with the Science of Reading, using art to deepen understanding of literacy-rich topics.
Students don’t just learn to read—they learn to see. By analyzing artworks, engaging in discussions, and creating their own visual responses, they strengthen their vocabulary, speaking, and critical thinking skills. Teachers can integrate these projects into any literacy-based curriculum, ensuring that students build knowledge in a way that is both flexible and meaningful.
Our approach prioritizes process over product, fostering problem-solving and adaptability. With no set blueprint, students take ownership of their learning—expressing themselves through artwork that reflects their own experiences and ideas.
Bring Doodles Academy to Your School or Organization
Art has the power to transform education—and we’re here to make that happen. Whether it’s through afterschool programs, early childhood education, or in-school curriculum integration, Doodles Academy provides the resources, training, and mentorship to bring high-quality art education to students everywhere.
Comments