Art Museum Visits for Young Children
Planning Ideas for a Family Activity with Toddlers or Preschoolers
Jan 25, 2009
An art museum can be a wonderful, exciting place to bring a young child. Exposure to original art and viewing explorations can be highly beneficial to a child's aesthetics, and overall, development. At the same time, it can be a very harrowing experience. Priceless works of art, breakable objects, and no touching policies are all often obstacles to a stress free and child friendly visit. Before taking part in that initial museum visit, try some pre-planning that just might make your day a little easier.
Matching a Museum and Family Need
Not all art museums are the same. Some cater more towards families with young children than others. Additionally, some may have special exhibits or offerings that may make the trip more interesting to young children.
Prior to choosing a museum to visit, do some research. Search museum websites, your local paper, or children's publications for ideas. Look for free gallery art making activities, family tours (some museums offer a family friendly audio tour free of charge), or interactive exhibits.
Other considerations to take into account are the amenities offered. Does the museum have a restaurant, cafe, or cafeteria in the building? If so, does the menu include children's options? For families with infants or toddlers, make sure that there are acceptable changing facilities located in the museum. This may require a call to the museum for verification.
Art Museum Policies: What to Bring with You
Family outings with young children often includes bringing bags filled with diapers, bottles, sippy cups, and more. Prior to backing up a mobile daycare, visit the museum's website or call the information line. It does not matter how much your precious two year old has to have her Barney cup with her at all times, most museums simply will not allow it. This may not just mean that you have to choose what to pack, but that you may also need to have a conversation with your child about what is (and is not) acceptable to bring. Try reading a book about museums or talking about how a museum is different than home, the mall, or a friend's house.
Another factor in deciding what to bring is bag choice. Generally, a small to medium purse will be allowable. Diaper bags and backpacks may be too large for some museums. Websites and phone information will tell you the specific size limit. Additionally, backpacks are not allowed in many museums. If you must bring a large diaper bag or backpack, consider asking if it allowable to store the item underneath a stroller.
When to Visit the Art Museum
Before actually visiting the museum, call ahead to get the hours and days of operations. Some museums may be closed on one specific day of the week or on a holiday. Conversely, others may have special events, offerings, or simply just be open on a holiday.
After investigating when the museum is open, choose a time that works with your schedule. For example, if your two year old naps everyday at three, try having a morning visit.
A visit to an art museum can be a terrific family adventure. Before taking off for this fun day of activity decide first on what museum meets your needs as a family, research the facility for basics such as dining accommodations, pack wisely (and according to the museum's guidelines), and choose a convenient time to visit.
