Florida Studio Theatre

The theater puts on whimsical shows like Aesop’s Fables, creating an accessible way for kids to experience live theater. It even offers programs where children can learn how to perform on stage or write their own plays. 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, (941) 366-9000, floridastudiotheatre.org

Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab

Want to get your kiddo excited about STEAM? Here, they can break apart
electronics to learn how they function, use a laser to etch a photo into a pumpkin or learn how to build their own Lego robot (the program ends in an epic battle, of course). 4552 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota, (941) 840-4394, suncoastsciencecenter.com 

Rise Above Performing Arts

This youth-focused theater program allows kids of all ages to write, direct and perform in their own plays. Just looking to take in a show? Timeless favorites like Grease, The Diary of Anne Frank and The Wizard of Oz are on the roster. 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1105, Sarasota, (941) 702-4741, riseabovearts.com

The Ringling

Family Art Making (known as FAM) offers creative art projects inspired by an object in the museum’s collections. Afterward, you can visit the museum to see that object in person. Kids also rave about the circus museum and the Bolger Playspace. 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, (941) 359-5700, ringling.org

Sarasota Art Museum

Families can enjoy the Art Lab from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, when little ones create art inspired by museum exhibitions. Wednesday Playdates, meanwhile, cater to early learners and their caregivers, offering storytime and guided art projects. Free Second Sundays at SAM invites families to explore the museum and participate in art-making activities at no cost. 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (941) 309-4300, sarasotaartmuseum.org

The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy

This eye-catching destination delivers a barrage of color, expression and larger-than-life sculptures. Duck into this locally owned pink and turquoise labor of love that’s home to ​​more than 1,750 pieces of original art. Open November through May. 2121 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, (941) 364-3399, whimsymuseum.org

The Makery

Children can explore their artistic talents with guided craft sessions, workshops or themed events designed to spark their curiosity. From slime making to painting and pottery wheeling, messes are welcome at this hands-on hub. 821 Apricot Ave., #3, Sarasota, (941) 299-4797, themakerysrq.com

Arts a Blaze Studio

This pottery painting studio caters to crafters and artists of all ages, and you’re invited to walk in, choose a piece of pottery and create. There are also movie nights, parties, pottery wheel classes and more. 8111 Lakewood Main St., #107, Lakewood Ranch, (941) 306-5840, artsablazestudio.com

Sarasota Clay Company

Formerly known as Carla’s Clay, this beloved studio has been around since 2002 and offers hand-building classes for kids, as well as wheel-throwing for kids 9 or older. 1733 Northgate Blvd., Sarasota, (941) 359-2773, sarasotaclaycompany.com

North Port Art Center

Kids ages 6 and up can draw, paint, make pottery and glaze, cartoon and mold soft clay creations. Check out a weekly roster of classes, including hands-on workshops under the guidance of experienced instructors. 5950 Sam Shapos Way, North Port, ​(941) 423-6460, northportartcenter.org

Sunflower Village Arts and Crafts Studio

Creativity blooms for all ages with classes for painting metal flowers, crafting resin coasters and more. Create custom resin jewelry or sea glass wind chimes and explore paint pours on canvas, glass or wood trays with kid-friendly make-and-take crafts. 1229 U.S. 41 Bypass S., Venice, (941) 223-1307, sunflowervillagestudio.com

Knot Awl Beads

Kids can create their own jewelry and learn about different beading techniques at this studio, which provides all the necessary materials and guidance for creating wearable, custom art. With Swarovski crystals and semi-precious gemstones on the menu, maybe the adults can create a treat for themselves, too. 8111 Lakewood
Main St., Suite #106, Lakewood Ranch, knotawlbeads.com