A Delicate Balance: Principles and Practices Of Promising Arts And Humanities Programs
INTRODUCTION
Are there certain practices, though, that are fundamental to these programs' effectiveness with children? Are there features that cause programs to be captivating rather than merely available?
A substantial body of information exists on the characteristics of successful programs for children and youth.1 This chapter seeks to describe these attributes from the perspective of artists, scholars and directors of community arts and humanities programs.
This study found that the most effective programs maintain a delicate balance between structure and
flexibility, creating opportunities for growth and
building on the familiar. Successful programs focus on specific arts and humanities disciplines without ignoring broader child development contexts. These programs work with parents while preserving independent relationships with children. Finally, they capitalize on the unique perspectives possessed by artists and humanists.
The following characteristics were identified through site visits to the nine programs named in the Introduction and Summary.2 The descriptions below quote liberally from the people directly involved because their voices embody the vision and character of the programs themselves. 
As we have seen in the previous chapter, arts and humanities programs for children and youth vary immensely. Sponsored by different organizations working in partnership with others, these programs offer a range of
cultural experiences in a variety of locales.