ArtXplore is an art-focused program that sparks creativity and self-expression through hands-on, theme-based projects. Students dive into exciting artistic concepts while creating projects like 3D Plant Models, Math Art Designs, DNA Models, Archimedes Screws, and Liquid Density Towers—all designed to connect real-world knowledge with artistic expression. Each session blends guided instruction with interactive projects, giving students the chance to experiment, design, and build their own take-home creations. Along the way, they’ll develop fine motor skills, boost confidence, and deepen their appreciation for art through engaging, creative, and educational experiences.

All experience levels welcome, whether it is your child’s first time exploring clay or not! Students will hone their spatial and building skills, learn sculpting and clay construction techniques, and have fun working with their hands. Projects will range from making decorative clay tiles and ornaments, bowls or pinch pots, and ceramic animals. Everyone will end the session with multiple pieces that will be fired in a kiln off site, glazed in class by each child, and taken home at the end to enjoy for years to come.

Calling all guitar players — beginning and experienced! This course is designed for young minds who have an interest in learning to play guitar. Within a group setting, students will learn the basics of guitar playing (proper technique, correct strumming patterns and music theory as it applies to the guitar. Starting right at the beginning then progressing to playing tunes in no time! As progress develops, we'll begin how to play music together as a small ensemble. Fun for all! Please note: Students must provide their own instrument.

Young learners explore Hindi through songs, stories, games, and role-play. Students begin speaking everyday words and phrases, learn letters, colors, fruits, and family vocabulary, and gain confidence in conversation. Fun activities like puzzles, rainbow sheets, and quizzes make learning Hindi engaging, helping children become confident communicators with friends and family.

This combination beginner and intermediate level class will cover/review chess basics (chessboard terminology and square identification; how the various pieces move and capture, plus their relative values; pawn promotion; the crucial concepts of check, checkmate, and stalemate; the special move of castling; opening goals and principles; basic tactics; endgame checkmates using major pieces; and last, but not least, good chess etiquette) on a class-wide basis or individually during supervised play as needed. Instruction will otherwise focus on learning tactics and strategy through the explanation of games and positions from historical players and events, and current top-level competitions.

AEF/ACC afterschool chess classes are split time-wise between instruction and supervised play. The instructor will organize and run an unofficial tournament during the last 3-5 weeks of this level course, with labeled medals as awards for all participants upon completion.

All enrolled students earn and accumulate points towards ACC's Royalty Loyalty Program (RLP) rewards by participating in the instruction half of class and playing with good chess etiquette afterwards. RLP rewards consist of chess-related items, including chess puzzle books and equipment.

With its nearly 1,500 years of history, chess is arguably the greatest and most popular board game of all time. Numerous studies have suggested that learning and playing chess at an early age can yield various benefits regarding cognitive skills. Confidence, decision-making, and sportsmanship are other areas of potential improvement. The benefits and enjoyment of chess can last a lifetime!

Unlock the secrets behind every great masterpiece! This class is designed for young artists ready to master the essential building blocks of art. We’ll dive into sketching realistic shapes, mixing the perfect colors, and using perspective to make your paintings pop. Each week, you’ll tackle new skills—from capturing light to blending acrylics like a pro. Build the technique needed to bring any idea to life! Check out Mandar’s art and student testimonials at mandarfineart.com.

Basketball is a great introductory game into sport. In this class your student will learn the basic skills of coordination and motor skills through dribbling, pivoting, catching and shooting - all skills that overlap into other sports.

What connects Alameda to Australia, Antarctica and Alaska? Where did life begin, and where does the largest animal ever to live on earth still live? What is huger than you can imagine, but needs your protection? The ocean is all that and more. Guided by a real oceanographer, we will explore the ocean with stories, art and a lot of hands-on science.

Cynthia Cudaback PhD (a.k.a. Dr C) is an Oakland native and UC Berkeley graduate with a deep love for the ocean environment. She has piloted large research vessels across the Pacific Ocean and studied estuarine and coastal areas from Washington State to North Carolina. She has taught students from ages four through 104 about the ocean and its wonderful inhabitants.