Petra Jordan Arteaga used to keep to herself. Now, she can often be found with at the cello or piano, sharing her music with a room full of people. Petra’s confidence has grown right alongside her creativity since she joined TLC’s Children’s Creative Arts Program, an after-school program built to help kids explore their interests and discover their voices.
A Full Schedule of Creative Discovery
Petra began attending the Children’s Creative Arts Program in April 2026 and quickly became an enthusiastic and involved member. She now attends instrumental Music, Ceramics, Fine Arts classes, Film, Board Games and Music Theory classes, exploring a wide range of creative outlets each week. Cello and piano have become her favorites, and her dedication to learning new skills has made a lasting impression on her teachers and family alike.
A Remarkable Transformation
Before joining the program, Petra’s mother shared that her daughter was quite shy and tended to keep to herself. She often avoided crowded settings and was hesitant to participate in activities that placed her in front of others. Since becoming part of the program, Petra has experienced a remarkable transformation.
Beaming with pride, her mother shared:
“Petra has made a complete turnaround. She loves coming to school every day and enjoys expressing herself through all of the classes she takes. She gives 100% in everything she does, and it shows whenever she participates, performs, or shares her creativity with others.”
Her teachers have witnessed the same growth firsthand:
“She’s an amazing and attentive student who understands what it takes to learn an instrument and always wants to improve. She’s still quiet at times, but her artistry speaks volumes.”
Another added:
“A wonderful student who learns, is not afraid to fail, and continues to get better every day.”
Why a Creative Arts Program for Children Matters
Petra’s story reflects something TLC sees again and again: creative arts programs helping children build confidence, communication skills and a sense of belonging. Through music, visual art, movement and collaborative play, children develop fine motor skills, emotional expression and social connection. These activities can reach children in ways that traditional academic settings cannot always provide.
A 2025 report from the National Endowment for the Arts found that children who participate in out-of-school arts activities, such as arts classes and lessons, show greater interpersonal skills and more positive approaches to learning. They also experience lower rates of behavioral challenges compared to children who do not participate (Iyengar, 2025).
The program welcomes children of all backgrounds and abilities. Every child is given the opportunity to discover a new talent, make friends and feel proud of what they create.
Congratulations, Petra! Your TLC family is proud of your accomplishments and excited to watch you continue to grow and shine.
Want to see what a creative arts program for children can do for your family? Learn more about TLC’s Children’s Creative Arts Program and see how your child can get involved.