Do you love visiting art museums when traveling? Is it a challenge to bring your kids? Here are some tips for keeping them happy!
We live in a metropolitan area, in part, because we want to be near art and culture. We wanted to raise our children to appreciate, and be inspired by said art and culture. Well, guess what? That doesn’t mean your children will actually enjoy going to art museums!
When we travel, I will often feel as though “I may never get back here again,” and “this is my only chance to see that one Picasso I have never seen.” I get anxious if the kids are cranky, the family gets tense, and well… let’s just say we have learned the hard way that we need to keep peace in order to enjoy the experience.
Here are some tips for your little, and not-so-little ones, at art museums. Enjoy museums with kids!
#1
Feed Them!


#2
Prep Them!
Prepare the family for what you are about to see before you go. Show the kids the website with photos of the exhibits and see if they are drawn to anything special. Research the special exhibits because oftentimes they are digital, interactive, contemporary, and family friendly. They may cost you an extra fee, but it may be worth it!
#3
Timing Is Everything!
When possible, visit at non-peak hours. No one does well in crowds and museums often empty out toward the end of the day. A late afternoon, before dinner trip to a museum may help the family build up some stamina for a longer stay next time.



A final word of advice for visiting museums with kids; divide and conquer! If it is not working, then send dad outside with the kids while mom finds the Mona Lisa and then tag team, so dad can have a visit with Mona later. And, of course, when the kids are old enough to take a bike or a walking tour, while you go to the museum, don’t complain! Let them go for it and plan to meet them at a designated spot in a few hours!
Let me know if these 9 tips for success at art museums with kids is helpful and if you have any other helpful ideas! Enjoy!
Planning a family trip
xx,
Carrie
0 Comments