By Rhiane Kirkby
I’ve tried out lots of baby and toddler craft classes with my son, most with limited success, but Loli Kids was different. It’s an art class with a touch of ay caramba—and one that’s most definitely in a league of its own.
A great concept, well executed—it’s clear to see that teacher Diana puts a lot of thought, attention and enthusiasm into what she’s doing. She’s creative, patient and has a great rapport with children and parents alike.
The idea is simple: your child spends an hour painting, moulding, cutting and sticking and (with a little help from you) comes away with a creative piece of art to keep. There’s no issue about making a mess—in fact that’s encouraged—and the great thing is that you get to leave most of it behind!
Diana has some great ideas and although she uses materials that are easily accessible (egg boxes, old t-shirts, cereal packets), there’s always something that makes these unique artworks stand out from the many others my child has created. The wooden birdcage we painted now hangs in the garden—and although its psychedelic colour scheme and bright jewels may not be overly attractive to local wildlife, my little boy shows it off proudly to any visitor. And Nana loved the painted-flower-on-canvas creation with added buttons and glitter—a far more stable offering than any I’ve seen before!
But don’t just take my word for it: “far better than other similar activities we’ve been to—all the kids produced fabulous pieces to take home—not just your average fridge painting,” says Roz. Orla thinks “Diana is doing something she’s really excellent at” whilst Lizzie adds that “she’s full of positive energy and it’s infectious.”
If those glowing reviews aren’t enough to convince you that Loli Kids is worth a try, there’s an added twist that really sold the class for me. Diana is Colombian and throws in a Spanish lesson for both parents and children. It’s usually only a few basic words or phrases—the colours of the paint, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’—but it’s an added dimension, and one that makes the adults in the room feel like they’re learning something too.
Loli Kids craft classes are held at Chiswick Library every Friday. There are three sessions, at 9:30, 10:30 and 11:30, for children aged 18 months to 5 years. Diana also organises bespoke children’s parties. For more information see the Loli Kids website.
