Student FAQs

CoachArt lessons are for patients living with a chronic illness and/or their siblings, ages 6-18. Children with behavioral, mental and brain development disorders do not qualify for CoachArt unless they also have an underlying chronic illness. Patients must be able to work independently with a volunteer arts or athletics instructor. Siblings may participate in the program even if the patient in their family does not. Family income is not a consideration for eligibility. If you have questions about a child's eligibility, please contact the CoachArt office.

The CoachArt program is completely free! All materials needed for the lessons will be provided.

CoachArt lessons take place in the communities where children live. Most lessons occur in partnering arts, music, dance or athletic centers. In these locations, CoachArt students can participate with other children without being identified as a patient or sibling. Lessons may occur in the family home if there is a local mentor coach available. In-home lessons can be a great opportunity for immunocompromised students or for those who would benefit from individual attention. Each CoachArt lesson is approximately one hour long, and can occur during the week or on weekends.

Each student MUST complete an application and return it to the CoachArt office before participating in the program. Applications can be mailed, faxed, or dropped off in person. It is the responsibility of each family to complete the application. When CoachArt receives the application, students will receive a letter or phone call confirming that the application is complete. At this time, available lessons, special events, or arts/athletic clinics will be discussed.

Students may choose lessons in music, tennis, painting, yoga, photography, golf, dance, cooking and more, based on what is available in their local area. All lesson options will be discussed during the matching phone call. Class options change frequently, so if we do not have lessons, they may become available in upcoming sessions. Students top options should be listed on the application. CoachArt will make every effort to match students to the classes of their choice.

During each session, CoachArt matches students with mentors for 12 weeks of lessons. Applications are accepted year-round. There are shorter arts/athletic clinics and special events available throughout the year.

CoachArt has a number of talented mentors who teach lessons in a variety of activities. We also have partnerships with quality arts and athletics facilities. Our goal is to place each child in a class where they will feel confident and successful. We rely upon input from parents to help find the best lesson for their child. Based on the students interest, we make every effort to match students with the class of their choice.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to find a lesson for every student in the program. For those we do not find a lesson for, we offer the opportunity to participate in one of our ongoing special events or arts/athletic clinics. To improve the chances of identifying a lesson for your child, please respond to CoachArt promptly, as opportunities may pass if not secured immediately.