Before you go to the museum, look online for pictures and videos of the artwork you’ll be seeing. Show your kids before you go so they know what kind of art to expect. Previewing the art beforehand might get them more excited![4] X Research source If your children don’t immediately show interest at museums, try taking them to the museum store. Children often get excited by the idea of choosing an item they can purchase and take home. [5] X Research source Go to museums when you travel as well. Letting your kids see different types of exhibits and art museums will increase their appreciation for art. When your children are older, allow them to participate in travel planning. Let them choose between different museums you could visit. [6] X Research source
Expose your child to different art movements, like impressionism, surrealism, pop art and abstract art. Just like adults, each child will have different reactions to different works. Encourage your child to further explore types of art they’re interested in. If your child is drawn to a particular art style, offer to make art like that with them at home.
What is going on in this picture? What do you see that makes you say that? How does this piece make you feel? What more can we find?
If you were in this painting, what would you be doing? What would this painting taste like? What type of animal would this painting be? Imagine you’re walking in this painting with bare feet — how does it feel?
Ask your child to write a poem or short story about the artwork. Play an I-spy game. Use this to call your child’s attention to details they may not have noticed. [13] X Research source Act out a painting & pose like the characters. What might the characters do next? A simple crayon drawing can also work![14] X Expert Source Bianca Solorzano, M. Ed. Infant Development & Montessori Consultant Expert Interview. 1 November 2021.
You can discuss animated films in artistic terms as well. How do they feel about the animation style? If a character evokes a strong reaction in your child, what is it about that character that makes them feel that way?
Typical supplies like paints, markers, crayons & construction paper are great. You can also try mixing it up with things like tissue paper, sponges, paper towel tubes & old magazines. Experiment with different activities (drawing, painting, collaging) and allow your child to discover what they like best.
If your kids show an interest in making sculptures, buy some playdough or make your own at home. If your kids are older, get them some air-drying or bakeable clay to work with. [17] X Research source You can also give your kids a child-safe digital or instant camera to take pictures with. You can even make an album with all of their photos so they have a collection of their artwork. With infants and toddlers, give them edible finger paints to make art with. You can tape down sheets of paper on the floor or let them paint their bodies and faces. [18] X Research source
