To begin our inspiration for BAC I took Violet and Henry to their first ever trip to the museum.
I must admit I was a little nervous about it. Mostly, I was worried that Henry would have a complete meltdown from exhaustion or boredom. But I honestly have to say that it was a fantastic trip to the museum! The three of us had such a great time. And were so inspired by the amazing art we saw.
I will admit that I was "scolded" twice for taking or starting to take a picture of something I wasn't supposed to. Oops, so I missed the no "photos" sign twice! This is one of the pictures I wasn't supposed to take...
Don't worry though, I am smart enough to know the no flash rule!
Aside from the two photo incidents, there were also two Henry touching incidents. Man he moves quickly! I completely understand, it's hard to remember that you can't touch...once, in the blink of an eye, he nearly touched this painting...
I didn't even realized that I had taken that photo until we got home...And, another time he nearly attempted to climb up on a chair in furniture gallery!
But, really, it was a fun and successful trip. We have already begun to plan our next one! The first trip somewhere is always the most nerve wracking.
Here are some little pointers for your next trip to the art museum...
Take snacks and water so you don't have to rely on the cafeteria food.
Be realistic, don't try to do the entire museum and don't attempt to look at every picture.
Give simple explanations and point out interesting details and similarities to help children make connections.
Engage children in a discussion about what they think the art is about.
Get a map, but I found it most helpful to simply wander and to see what there is to see.
Discuss the museum "rules" on your way to the museum: inside voices, no running, no touching...
Get the excitement about art started at home, make connections between art and recognizable books.
Dress like a painting! Violet wore a Monet inspired outfit, and Henry and I wore modern art inspired outfits.
Hold hands, that way you know where they are and they are less likely to touch something.
Have fun and enjoy!
