People working on clay sculptures at a ceramics class, with one sculpture resembling a seated figure.

Touch, shape, and tell your story, one handful of clay at a time

This hands-on clay sculpting workshop invites seniors to reconnect with their senses, express creativity, and build confidence through sculpting. Using soft, easy-to-mold clay, seniors will learn to shape simple symbolic objects that represent moments or values from their lives.

Clay offers a therapeutic experience - whether rolling, pinching, or carving, each movement builds cognition, encourages sensory exploration, and strengthens fine motor skills.

Participants are guided through step-by-step demonstrations as they explore different textures, shapes, and themes. Throughout the session, conversation is encouraged. Stories often emerge as the brain is stimulated.

Key Benefits

  • Fine Motor Skill Enhancement
    Rolling, pinching, and shaping clay strengthens hand muscles and supports coordination, which is especially helpful for aging joints or arthritis.

  • Cognitive Stimulation
    Participants engage in sequencing, problem-solving, and spatial planning, stimulating imagination and memory.

  • Stress Reduction & Mindfulness
    The hands-on nature of clay offers a calming experience that promotes relaxation.

  • Emotional Expression & Storytelling
    Sculptures can represent people, places, or feelings, offering a creative way to share personal memories.

  • Intergenerational Bonding (If youth are present)
    Working alongside youth encourages connection, empathy, and conversation across generations.

  • Sensory Engagement
    Clay offers rich feedback that awakens the senses and enhances body awareness.

  • Confidence & Creativity
    Every creation is unique, providing a sense of pride, self-expression, and joy in making something by hand.

  • Community & Belonging
    Sculptures can be displayed or gifted, giving participants a sense of contribution, visibility, and celebration.