Explosion is Heights of Hope's creative arts and skill building program for children, youth, and adults in our community! Students of all ages choose a class from the options below and work with teachers from our neighborhood and our community to explore their creativity and learn new skills.
2025 Class Info
All 2025 classes will be held at the Heights of Hope Community Center (450 Stratford Way) on Thursdays or Fridays. Students can arrive any time between 3:30 and 4:30. Classes finish at 5:45. Explosion begins the week of January 16 and continue each week until our Exhibition on Friday evening, March 28. We WILL have Explosion even if there's a half day or no school. We will decide on whether to host Explosion on snow days on a case-by-case basis.
Due to space, classes will be limited to 3-7 participants/class. Register by December 16 to guarantee a spot. After that, classes will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Students wishing to take a class on Thursdays AND Fridays will have that option if there is space available.
Classes costs $5/person for the whole session. Pay online when you register or put cash or check with your name on it in the dropbox at the Community Center (450 Stratford Way). Parents may also volunteer in a class or provide a snack instead of the registration fee.
If you need assistance with transportation, let us know! We might be able to set up a carpool or possibly provide transportation.
Contact Laura at lauram@heightsofhope.org or text/call (616) 340-0737 with any questions.
Thursday Classes (3:30-5:45 @ the Community Center)
1. STEM Explorers (Ages: Kindergarten - 3rd grade) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
Get ready for an adventure full of designing, building, and creating! In this class, we’ll tackle fun challenges, make cool projects, and explore how science, art, and engineering work together.
2. Encore (Ages: 2nd grade - adults)
Step into the spotlight in this exciting performing arts class! Together, we’ll explore singing, dancing, and acting while creating a one-of-a-kind show to share with family and friends. Whether you love to perform or want to try something new, this class is all about having fun and shining in your own unique way!
3. Cooking Chronicles (Ages: 3rd - 6th grade) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
If you are passionate about food–whether you enjoy eating it or making it–this is the perfect opportunity to unleash your culinary creativity. In this class, we’ll dive into a variety of recipes, mixing classic techniques with our own imaginative twists. No experience is necessary; just bring your enthusiasm! Together, we will experiment with flavors and create different dishes that you can proudly share with family and friends.
4. Tapestry Weaving (Ages: 5th grade - adults)
Explore the relaxing and creative art of weaving as you design your own unique wall hangings! Using looms, you’ll blend colorful and textured yarns into beautiful tapestries to display with pride. This class is perfect for anyone who loves art, fiber, and trying something new!
5. I.S.S.U.E.S. with Self Expression (Ages: 6th - adults)
We are Individuals Sharing Strengths/struggles Using ElementS. We will explore various creative/performance arts to express ourselves regarding certain traumas and faults/failures. We will dig deeper to shine light on the triumph beyond our trials, the message through the mess, and our voices of victory despite our struggles.
Friday Classes (3:30-5:45 @ the Community Center)
6. Wonderwood Forest (Ages: Kindergarten - 3rd grade)
Join us for this class of fantasy, fun, and creativity! In Wonderwood Forest, magic is everywhere. The trees whisper secrets, and sparkling streams flow with hidden wonders. A wise and kind wizard lives here. Together, we'll design cloaks and wands, create stories, play games, mix potions, and learn about the wonders of nature and magic. Every visit to Wonderwood Forest is a chance to imagine, discover, and have fun!
7. Violin and Viola (Ages: 2nd - 5th grade) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
Come make music with us! We'll either learn the basics of playing the violin or viola through interactive games and playing activities! Instruments provided for those who need them.
8. Build It (Ages: 3rd grade - adults) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
Get ready to create, design, and explore in this hands-on building class! We’ll work on woodworking projects using power tools, create circuits to make things light up or run, and have fun building with LEGOs. This class is perfect for anyone who loves to build and bring ideas to life!
9. Crocheting (Ages: 5th grade - adults) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
Dive into the cozy world of crocheting, where creativity meets fun! In this class, you’ll learn the basics or sharpen your skills as we crochet together and craft adorable stuffed animals. Whether you’re a beginner or a crochet expert, we'd love to have you join our group!
10. Creativity in the Kitchen (Ages: 5th grade - adults) THIS CLASS IS FULL - JOIN THE WAITLIST BY REGISTERING
Step up your cooking with this advanced class where we'll not only learn new recipes, but also incorporate creativity and experimentation into our cooking. If you love to cook or are interested in learning, this class is for you!
Check out some of our previous years' recap videos here -
