As a former public school teacher and art educator, I learned that students remain engaged when they discover something that resonates with them personally, or when they have the opportunity to actively participate in an experience.
I began taking my kids to art museums when they were in preschool. We usually started our visits with outdoor exhibits where they could play and interact with the art, such as sculpture gardens. We’d take breaks for snacks and then make our way inside to see the rest of the exhibits. Over the years, our family has visited many incredible art museums and explored the cities around them. The exhibits my kids remember most are the ones that invited visitors to actively participate.
Last year, our family visited the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to see the exhibits of Amy Sherald (which I really wanted to see) and Get in the Game (which my kids were interested in). That was probably the most fun our family had within a museum setting—even for teens! If you are willing to drive, I highly suggest a visit, but check what exhibits are available first. Many art museums are also located in historic towns, so a family day can be spent exploring both outdoor and indoor settings.
HERE ARE MY TIPS FOR KEEPING KIDS ENGAGED AT ART MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC PLACES:
DO YOUR RESEARCH: Before you head out to a new museum or town, look it up online. Research the dates you will be visiting and learn about the exhibits, the location, and whether it is a place your child may enjoy. Reviews sometimes share helpful information about hit-or-miss activities. If your place of interest does not seem developmentally appropriate for younger children, find another place that will be more enjoyable for the whole family. It’s not fun leaving a place early because a child is acting out, though it may be worth visiting that museum at a time when your child is most calm.
PREP YOUR KIDS: Anytime our family plans a trip to a new place, I like to prepare the kids for what the atmosphere may be like. For example, I let them know there will be many floors in the museum with tall ceilings and remind them not to touch displays unless allowed. We talk about staying together, taking breaks for the bathroom or a café snack, and remembering to bring a few items (I’ll share more later). I share the name of the town and answer any questions they may have. I also try to get them excited about something they may like based on the research I do online.
EAT A SNACK: I don’t think this one needs much explanation, but make sure your kids—and you—eat a snack before starting your adventure. Everyone will need fuel for the next hour or two. I like to choose something protein-based because studies show that protein helps sustain energy longer.
HANDS-ON ITEMS: Depending on the age of your children, the items you bring may vary. Hands-on items refer to things that enhance the experience. Here are some examples: a magnifying glass, which can be used to look more closely at art or items around town; a camera or phone camera, which is always a must! A camera in the hands of a child allows them to choose what interests them and record the adventure; a sketchbook with a pencil, which gives your child a chance to reflect in writing or artistically on what they are experiencing; and lastly, a map or brochure. Usually there are many available, and a map of the historical place or art museum becomes a valuable tool for planning your time and exploring your interests.
ROLE MODELING: Remember that your children are watching you all the time, but especially in new environments. We are the role models. How we respond in social settings provides cues they pick up from us. In museum settings, there are areas where we can be quiet and others where freedom of movement and sound is more allowed. There are times when we can be still and admire something from afar, and times when we want to get up close. I think of our beautiful Monterey Bay Aquarium and how it allows space for all ages and these kinds of experiences.
KIDS PLAY A PART: Depending on their age, your child can choose a role as part of the adventure. Some examples include a guide (using the map to help the family navigate the new setting), the recorder (taking notes about places visited and fun facts), the photographer (taking photos of art they like, interesting details, the family, etc.), and the timekeeper (using a stopwatch or watch to keep track of when it’s time for a break or snack). As parents, we are always being creative and thinking outside the box to help our kids stay engaged.
PAUSE AND PLAY: When visiting a new setting, there is value in pausing in the moment to notice something new. Maybe it’s a new fact, a piece of brick from decades ago, a mural, or simply how two colors next to each other create a feeling that causes you to pause. Look for those moments for yourself and your children. They are moments you can reflect on later. Being playful can also help families connect. Maybe it’s a quick game of tag on an open lawn area, like we have in historic downtown Monterey. There are many hands-on experiences within museums, and with a little research, you can find them.
REFLECT: When you’re back home or driving back after your visit, take time to reflect on your family’s experience at the historic town or museum. This can be a valuable learning opportunity. As a parent, it helps you understand what your children enjoyed and what they didn’t. Looking through photos, notes, or drawings from the trip can make this reflection even more meaningful.
I hope you and your family find these tips helpful. Have fun and stay creative!