Sarah Stultz is the managing editor of the Tribune. 

I have always been a proponent of helping children find activities they enjoy that will help them learn, not only about their talents but also about how to become better people in life.

Last school year, we found a place that did just that when we started our daughter, Sophie, in  a children’s art program called Kids College through the Freeborn County Arts Initiative.

Before she started, Sophie had accompanied me one time into the building and seen some of the other children who were part of the program. After observing for a few minutes, she quickly told me she wanted to be a part of Kids College, which was for three afternoons a week after school.

Sophie was a strong-willed child and never shied away from voicing her opinions. When she said she wanted to be a part of it, I knew she wouldn’t let down anytime soon. She saw something special there.

Though we were unable to send her all three days, we opted to send her for one day a week. She would have rather gone every day, but she was pleased at the opportunity to go at least weekly. It was one of the highlights of her week, and she quickly made close friends. As one of the younger students there, she looked up to many of the others.

The children took part not only in art projects but also other activities, including learning about healthy eating and trying new foods. They had special celebrations for each child’s birthday and learned valuable life lessons.

I loved going to pick her up most weeks as she showed me what projects she was working on and how proud she was of her creations. One of the highlights of her summer was seeing her own artwork in an exhibit at the Paradise Center for the Arts in Faribault.

I hope all who are involved in that program — including the staff and the other children — know how much you touched not only her heart but also mine. I was proud Sophie was a part of it this last year. These types of programs make our youth strong.

Whether it’s art, music, dance, 4-H or sports, Albert Lea has so much to offer our young ones. Find something your children can be a part of — it will not only give them something to do, but it will help them grow their confidence and their talents. These young ones are our rising leaders.