Help Kids Appreciate Art
Art is for everyone. Anyone can help kids appreciate art by making art accessible for children. Unfortunately, many adults do not enjoy art simply because they do not understand the stories or context, and this is even more true for children. If kids can relate to the subjects of art or learn the stories being portrayed, kids can appreciate art as well as any adult.
Instructions
1. Find art that will allow kids to easily make a connection with the material. Pictures and sculptures of children throughout the ages, for example, or dogs and cats are easily understood, and it is easy to start a conversation about how the subjects in the art relate to familiar people and animals in the kids' lives. Music and dance are very accessible to children and should not be overlooked.
2. Create art with the kids. Teach them that art is not something that they must merely observe but something that they can create. This will help them appreciate the skill and time invested in the pieces and performances they see. Follow trips to museums with drawing or clay sessions or encourage kids to sing and dance after performances.
3. Explore the stories behind famous, and not so famous, art. Long before television, paintings, sculpture and opera illustrated popular stories. Encourage kids to make up their own stories about paintings and then research the real story being portrayed.
4. Visit museums and performances. Most cities have children's theaters and music groups, and often free performances are offered (local libraries and community centers are a great place to check). Many art museums have special children's tours.
5. Explore the items in local museums that will interest children such as swords and armor, jewelry or pop culture items that they will recognize.
6. Discuss art with the kids. Encourage kids to express their views on art. Let them know that it is okay to not like everything, and listen to their preferences when planning events.
7. Remember that art should be fun. Kids will appreciate art if it is an enjoyable experience, not if it is a lecture! Couple trips to museums or events with picnics and other fun experiences.
