Meet Stephanie
Helping Children Trust Their Own Ideas
Hi, I’m Stephanie Cox, founder of Art Cart Kids.
For more than 30 years, I have worked with children in public, private, and charter schools—from preschool through eighth grade. But the most important lessons in my career have often come from the children themselves.
They have shown me that confidence does not grow from being given every answer. It grows when children have opportunities to make choices, solve problems, communicate their ideas, and discover what they can do for themselves.
That belief became the foundation of Art Cart Kids.â
A Letter from Stephanie
In many ways, Art Cart Kids was built by children. I simply had the privilege of paying attention.
Again and again, I watched children light up when they realized there was more than one way to solve a problem. I saw their confidence grow when their ideas were taken seriously. I watched them become more independent when an adult stepped back just enough to let them try.
Art gives children a beautiful way to practice these skills.
When your child chooses an Art Form, experiments with materials, changes direction, asks for help, or explains an idea, they are doing much more than making artwork. They are learning to trust their imagination and themselves.
That is why every child at Art Cart Kids is encouraged to create something uniquely their own. An Art Guide offers inspiration, thoughtful questions, and just enough support—but never takes over or “fixes” a child’s work.
Art is the vehicle. Children are the purpose.
My hope is that your child leaves the studio carrying more
than artwork. I hope they carry a growing belief that their
ideas matter, challenges can be solved, and they are capable
of creating something that has never existed before.
Welcome to Art Cart Kids. I’m so glad you’re here.
Stephanie Cox
Founder, Educator and Art Guide

Experience You Can Feel Confident About
Stephanie has been a licensed educator since 1995 and has taught children from preschool through eighth grade in California and Virginia.
Her professional background includes:
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Master’s degree in Educational Administration
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Teaching licenses in elementary education, ESOL,
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and artMontessori training for ages 3–6 and 6–9
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More than 30 years of teaching experience
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Experience supporting children with different abilities, personalities, and learning needs
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Founder of Art Cart Kids since 2019
This experience shapes a studio where every child can be known, supported, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
A Studio Designed for Children

Art Cart Kids found its permanent home at 77 Bells Hill Road in Stafford in 2023.
The studio is located inside a charming former home built in 1957. Its hardwood floors, cozy rooms, organized materials, and outdoor space create an environment that feels welcoming rather than institutional.
Children can settle in, explore their imagination, make independent choices, and enjoy creating in a space designed especially for them.
Families are welcome to stay in the art room, relax in the guest room, or drop off—whatever helps their child feel most comfortable.





