The Children’s Arts Guild is a nonprofit organization dedicated to championing the authentic development of children. Since 2011, our work has been animated by the words of Frederick Douglass who said: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken [people.]” We believe that when adults lead with authenticity, children thrive.

Our work addresses a critical challenge: A crisis in youth mental health. Research shows that self-alienation — when children disconnect from their authentic selves to conform to societal expectations — drives anxiety, depression, substance use, and behavioral issues.

We create environments where young people can explore and express their innermost selves — a vital and often overlooked pathway to thriving. A focus on authenticity empowers children and the adults who care for them to flourish in a complex and ever-changing world.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of our current foundation partners:

The Lucretia Philanthropic Foundation · The Milton and Sally Avery Arts Foundation · The NoVo Foundation · The Sherwood Foundation · The Virginia Cretella Mars Foundation

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Our work is made possible through meaningful partnerships with schools, foundations, and organizations that share our commitment to helping children grow with authenticity and confidence. Together, we co-create learning environments, expand access to authenticity-based SEL, and build communities where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to be themselves.

The Children’s Arts Guild is led by a dedicated team of educators, artists, and advocates united by a shared belief in the power of authenticity. Together, we bring decades of experience in education, youth development, and creative leadership to help adults and children connect more deeply, learn more freely, and grow more authentically.