These days “getting creative” doesn’t just mean playing with glue and paint, creativity is a lifestyle and a perspective. It is your way to engage your kids with the world and allow them to try out their own creative abilities, and there is no better person to talk to about creativity than the Director of Youth and Family Programs Manager at the NOMA, Elise Solomon. Ms. Elise gives her advice on little ways you can get young kids to get creative in small ways during their everyday lives.
One of my favorite days each week at the New Orleans Museum of Art is Wednesday—the day we offer free admission for Louisiana residents, courtesy of the Helis Foundation. All day long, the galleries are buzzing with people, including families with little children.
In the old days, museums were regarded as quiet sanctuaries for art aficionados, but now, everything is changing. Museums are much more welcoming to families that want to enjoy some time together in the galleries. Strollers are allowed, crying babies are understood, and curious children asking questions are celebrated.
Why do I love art museums so much? Because I love experiencing art even if I don’t know anything about it.
Here are some of my favorite tips for looking at art with kids:
- Take your time. Don’t just breeze by the works of art—slow down and really look at it. You may be surprised at what you see!
- Ask questions. What is happening in this painting? Why might the artist have used those objects in this sculpture? Who might have had this clock in his house? Remember, there are no wrong answers.
- Play games. “I Spy” is a classic gallery game, but my favorite games involve a little bit of imagination and movement. Use an imaginary pencil to trace the shapes in a sculpture, tell stories about what might happen next in a painting, or pick out objects that you would use to decorate your imaginary home.
Museums are great places for children to explore new ideas, learn a little history, and make lasting memories with their families.
Blog date: October 1, 2017