Culture vulture
Filed Under Events | June 15, 2007
This week was the launch of the Monet to Dali show at the Vancouver Art Gallery showcasing famous works by Manet, Monet, Cézanne, van Gogh, Rodin, Picasso, and DalÃ. We’re thinking this is art your kids might enjoy too, but how exactly do you visit a museum with tots in tow and make it enjoyable for all, including other patrons? We’ve culled some ideas from the websites of world-renowned museums:
Timing is key – call ahead and find out when the museum’s least crowded and potentially less overwhelming for young kids. Mornings are usually best for little ones as they’re at their freshest.
Talk it up — prep your child before you go. Talk about what you’ll see at a museum and what kind of behaviour is appropriate.
Suss it out — get a map from the front desk so you always have the location of the nearest washroom at hand.
Pick a colour, any colour — start your visit by choosing a colour, animal, or object and have everyone watch for them in the pictures you’re perusing.
Gear up – check if you can bring your stroller in with you, it makes a great carry-all for cast-off coats, and empty Sigg bottles. If not travel light.
Realism – it’s an art movement, and also a parental necessity. Your child may be more interested in admiring the staircase than the actual art. Let him explore whatever he finds intriguing, it’ll keep him wanting more. Small children can last for 45 minutes to an hour and half, we wouldn’t suggest pushing it unless you like dealing with meltdowns in public. And probably whetting your child’s cultural appetite is best reserved for the pre-mobile or ages four and up.
Sunday the 17th is also supersunday: art for families at the VAG. Another great way to spend a wet Father’s Day, you and your under-12s can learn about art from the experts. Then put that learning to the test in the hands-on activity area. For full Art Gallery details visit: www.vanartgallery.bc.ca
One Response to “Culture vulture”
Leave a Comment
Let us know what you think or share your great finds with us so we can share them with other Vancouver mothers!
[...] Before you expose your kids to culture you may want to check out our guide for taking little ones to museums: [...]