2. Family Projects
At home, your family can engage in arts and crafts nights. Spend an evening making papier-mâché masks and then host a masquerade party. The union of textural work and classical music engages multiple senses. There is also the creativity of dancing and then assembling a unique outfit from the costume closet.
For these types of family projects, keep a steady supply of materials handy so that children can create any time they like. Using second-hand materials or leftovers from school functions can reduce waste while still having fun. For example, use old newspapers and construction paper scraps for your papier-mâché masks.
3. Performances and Museums
Local orchestras and bands often perform a few free concerts a year for the community and many high school bands march in holiday parades. Theater troupes and high schools also put on a variety of musicals and plays throughout the year.
Museums host a rotating series of exhibits and themes that can teach about mediums, like charcoal, watercolour, and clay. Themes may explore everything from environmentalism to coming of age. Consider donating to the museums and art galleries you visit to help these incredible establishments inspire children everywhere.
4. Family Collaborations
Families that create can also spectate. When wandering through galleries, engage your children in active conversation. How does the painting make them feel? What can they see in the details of the picture? Bring along a pad of paper and let your child draw or make notes.
In stories and plays, discuss characters and the conflicts of the story. Analysing these facets helps children comprehend difficult concepts and interpret these findings into their next story or drawing.
Start Prioritising Art Today
Prioritising the arts is an incredible way to strengthen your children’s minds and bodies. At the end of the day, a family that values the arts ensures a more dynamic and inspiring childhood.
Jane is the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she shares practical tips on how to live a greener life.
