Keeping children engaged and entertained can seem like a fulltime job especially in the school holidays, so why not look for activities to keep the children happy, and that you’ll enjoy as well? One option you could consider is a visit to one of our major galleries or museums? While children and art galleries would traditionally seem to lie in opposing camps, it’s now possible to visit art galleries that not only allow children, but welcome them with open arms and cater for their needs.
The National Gallery in Canberra, and most of our state galleries, now have children’s programs and even children’s activity centres in place. These cater for all ages: from toddlers, right through to older school students. You now have the option of just dropping in, or booking into specific classes or workshops. Children can have a ball creating their own works of art, and learning a little about art and the world while they’re at it.
The Children’s Art Centre at the Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane invites both Australian and international contemporary artists to interact with kids and they operate projects like Toddler Tuesdays where you can take your child in for an art lesson from a professional! Or museums such as Melbourne Museum and the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney have dedicated spaces suitable for children, with hands-on activities and exhibits.
If you know your children are spending too many hours in front of the TV or video games, and you feel the need of a day out with a difference, why not contact your local museums and galleries and find out what’s on offer?