The stick people scrawled on your neighbor’s patio prove that a little of your doodler’s sidewalk chalk goes a long way.

Harness that creative energy at Color Wheel Studio, opening this week in Bucktown. Run by Virtu boutique owner Julie Horowitz-Jackson and her artist husband, Donald Jackson, the sunny space offers art classes for kids ages 2 to 12.

The tiniest of Monets explore texture and line as they draw and paint alongside their parents. Easel work and collage enter the picture for preschool-age tots, and older students are encouraged to keep sketchbooks and dabble in peer critique. Sessions run four or eight weeks, but those wanting a quick brush with things can hit open studio time for unstructured fun.

Considering the private birthday parties and on-site art supply and bookstore, it all seems like a stroke of genius.

Color Wheel Studio, 2016 West Concord Place, at Damen Avenue. The summer session ($125-$300) and open studio time ($30 per hour) begins Tuesday. For more information or to register, call 773-661-1743 or go to thecolorwheelstudio.com.

EAT
Cafe Twist
What: Kim & Scott’s Gourmet Pretzels just opened this cheerful nook that sells sandwiches, salads, soups, and smoothies.
Why: For precious little dough ($6), kids can twist their own pretzels.
When: Mon.-Wed., 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri., 7 a.m.-midnight; Sat., 8 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: 2218 N. Lincoln Ave., at Webster St. (773-281-3634).

LICK
Peter Pan’s Ice Cream Adventure
What: Watch the Neverland-set play, get pictures taken in Hook’s ship, and devour a cool treat.
Why: Proceeds benefit Emerald City Theatre’s Head Start Campaign, helping low-income preschoolers.
When: Fri., 10:30 a.m. (Also June 26, July 10 & July 17.)
Where: Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., at Wrightwood Ave. Tickets ($15) at 773-935-6100 or online at ticketmaster.com.

BUY
Songs for Wiggleworms
What: The much-loved children’s music program turns 25 this year, and it’s re-releasing its classic, out-of-print CD ($12) to mark the occasion.
Why: Bright, folky ditties by Ralph Covert.
When: You want to get the toddler party started.
Where: Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., at Sunnyside Ave. (773-728-6000).

Photo: Courtesy of Color Wheel Studio