Character Animation (on Adobe Animate) Live Group Course
In this live group class, students will learn how to animate their own characters using Adobe Animate. They'll explore key animation principles while developing digital art and storytelling skills in a collaborative and creative environment
What's included
16 live meetings
12 in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1-2 hours per week. includedGrading
includedClass Experience
Beginner - Advanced Level
In this 16-Sessions live group class, students will dive into the world of character animation using Adobe Animate. They will learn how to design original characters and bring them to life through movement, expression, and storytelling. This course covers essential animation principles such as squash and stretch, timing, anticipation, walk cycles, lip sync, and more advanced topics like secondary action, camera movement, and scene composition. The class is structured in progressive weekly lessons. Each week builds on the last, guiding students step-by-step through the animation process—from character design and movement studies to multi-character scenes and a final short film project. By the end of the course, students will complete their own animated scenes and receive guidance on how to create a beginner portfolio or demo reel. I teach in a supportive, clear, and creative way, using screen sharing, live demonstrations, guided practice, and open discussions to make sure everyone understands the content. Lessons will often begin with a short lecture or demo (10–15 minutes), followed by hands-on animation time where I provide real-time feedback and individual support. Students are encouraged to ask questions, share their screens, and participate in class discussions. Learners will interact directly with me throughout each class session, and I regularly check in on their progress during work time. I also encourage students to share their work with the group for feedback and encouragement—creating a collaborative and friendly classroom environment. Whether your child is new to animation or wants to sharpen their digital skills, this class offers a deep and fun introduction to character animation using industry tools in a kid-friendly, approachable format.
Learning Goals
Students will learn how to design and animate an original character using Adobe Animate, applying basic principles of movement and expression.Students will develop storytelling skills through animation, including planning, posing, and timing to communicate emotion and action.
Syllabus
16 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Intro to Adobe Animate & Character Concepts
Students will explore Adobe Animate’s interface and begin developing their own character idea. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Character Design & Construction
Students will design and build their characters using simple shapes and symbols. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Posing and Basic Motion
Students will learn basic posing and create their first simple movement. 45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Walk Cycles Part 1
Students will learn the basics of walk cycles and begin animating their character walking. 45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This class supports learners with ADHD, Dyslexia, and ASD through clear step-by-step instructions, visual aids, and a flexible, encouraging learning pace.
Parental Guidance
This class uses Adobe Animate, a professional animation software. Learners will need access to the program, and a licensed version or free trial must be installed before the course begins. No account is required to participate in class, but learners should have permission to download and install the software on their device.
All class content is age-appropriate and designed to be fun and creative. No scary or upsetting content will be presented. Students may share their own original characters, so I will monitor content to ensure it stays suitable for the group.
Pre-Requisites
Basic computer skills and familiarity with drawing tools are helpful. No prior animation experience is required.
Supply List
Adobe Animate (licensed version or free trial) – Available from Adobe’s official website. Drawing tablet or stylus (optional but recommended) – For more precise drawing input. Computer or laptop capable of running Adobe Animate smoothly. Sketchbook or paper and pencil – For planning and rough character sketches. Headphones with a microphone – For clear audio during class participation. All additional learning materials (guides, handouts, and reference sheets) will be provided by the instructor.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
🎬 Before We Start Animating: Key Setup Recommendations
Welcome to the Adobe Animate Character Animation Course!
Before we dive into animating, here are some important setup tips to help you get the most out of this class:
🖥️ 1. Dual Monitor Setup (Highly Recommended)
A dual monitor setup can make a big difference in your learning experience—especially during live streaming lessons.
With two screens, you can:
Watch the live class or reference tutorials on one screen
Animate in Adobe Animate on the second screen without needing to switch windows
View character references, timing charts, or class notes while working
Stay focused and productive with everything visible and organized
Even using a laptop with an external monitor or a tablet as a second screen works great!
🖊️ 2. Graphic Tablet (Optional but Helpful)
If you plan to draw or do frame-by-frame animation, using a graphic tablet is optional—but highly beneficial.
Pen Display Tablets (like Wacom Cintiq, Huion Kamvas): allow you to draw directly on the screen
Graphics Tablets without a screen (like Wacom Intuos): affordable and effective with a dual monitor setup
These tools give you better control over your drawings and animation flow inside Adobe Animate.
Joined September, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Universidad Pedagogica Nacional Francisco Morazan
Bachelor's Degree in Art and Design from Langara College
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Music Education and have extensive experience teaching animation, art, and music to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Latin America, the USA, and Canada. I’ve taught in both public and private school settings, as well as in creative workshops and after-school programs.
I am currently a 2D Animator and Animation Revisionist at an award-winning Canadian studio, where I’ve worked on educational and entertainment series, including the Telly Award-winning show Galapagos X. I use professional industry tools daily, including Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, Procreate Dreams, and others.
My teaching approach combines creativity, patience, and step-by-step guidance to help young learners feel confident and inspired. I create a welcoming space where students can experiment, make mistakes, and grow their artistic skills while having fun. I’ve worked with diverse learners and adapt my teaching style to support different learning needs and paces.Reviews
Live Group Course
$54
weekly2x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
2-8 learners per class
