What do I need to teach an arts and crafts class?

Question

I live in Fort Bragg, California. I went to our rec center the other day to find out if there were any ballet classes going on currently, and they said no but they would be more than happy if an instructor was willing to do classes.

There isn't a whole lot for kids to do in our small town, aside from 'Wiggly-Giggly' park and the library. Now I don't know ballet well enough to teach it, but I would like to do an arts and crafts class for children. Could I just go to the rec center and offer my services, or do I need any kind of special certification? I'm only nineteen, but this is something I really want to do.

Answer 1

You would probably have to have a background check to work with kids. Ask the Rec Center director about the A&C classes. All they can do is say no.

Answer 2

Very likely you won't need any special certification but there's a sure bet that they rec center will want to know if you have experience working with children. Depending on the state you live in you may also need special FBI or Child Abuse clearances before they let you work with school age children.

My advice is to call the center and ask them if you need any special paperwork to work there. If they don't want you full time, offer to work part time as a volunteer so you can get that experience in working with kids. It'll always look good on your resume.