C.J. Braden • 2 Minute Read
How to Teach Kids Art and Culture as You Travel
As a parent, you want your children to learn as much as possible while you're on vacation. But let's face it, after a long day of sightseeing, the last thing you want to do is sit down and teach a history lesson. So how can you make learning about art and culture fun for your kids (and yourself)? We’re going to run through a few suggestions in this blog post.
Galleries are great art learning experiences for kids
And the best part is, it doesn’t have to become an educational trip. Many of the things you can do to take in culture and art when you’re traveling can be fun and enjoyable experiences that really boost your trip. Sometimes, they can even be free ways to keep busy and explore too. Let’s take a look.
1- Visit a Museum
Kids love learning about lots of things
This one is a no-brainer. Museums are full of amazing works of art and artifacts from different cultures. And the best part is, most museums offer interactive exhibits and activities specifically for kids. Not only will your children be able to see amazing works of art up close, but they'll also be able to learn about the history and culture behind them. You can also time visits for specific exhibitions they might be interested in too.
2- Take In a Gallery
The Louvre is a great place for kids of all ages
For art specifically, you have the opportunity to explore the many art galleries that cities have to offer. So wherever you’re going, why not make plans to stop at the nearest city and take in a gallery tour? You can look at things like Agora Gallery Review online to choose the right gallery to view. Again, if there happen to be kids showings, this could be perfect for your family too.
Can’t travel right now? That’s okay! You can still teach kids all about art at home. Try starting with this simple DIY Easy Party Backdrop I created with my niece and nephew via my YouTube channel “Carolyn Braden”:
3- Go On a Walking Tour
Kids can accompany you on walking tours
Walking tours are a great way to see a city's major landmarks and get a feel for its culture and history. Many walking tours are geared specifically towards families with children. These tours often include stops at important landmarks, where your children can learn about their significance. Best of all, walking tours are usually free or very inexpensive.
If you love this article, we think you’ll love this one too: Best Places To Watch the Sanibel Island Sunset
4- Attend a Local Festival or Celebration
When you're traveling, take advantage of any local festivals or celebrations that might be going on. These are great opportunities for your children to experience first-hand the traditions and customs of another culture. Oftentimes, these festivals will also have performances or workshops that your kids can participate in. It’s a great idea to plan your trip when these occasions are set to be held.
5- Integrate With Locals
Yoga is a fun activity to try with kids
Finally, you could also consider mixing more with locals in the countries that you’re visiting. Rather than staying in a hotel in a commercialized city setup for tourists, why not choosing to stay in a more remote or localized area? Or book a Airbnb to stay with a family or get to know the host? Choosing to go to more off the beaten parts of the country and eating in more authentic restaurants, for example, could give you a more realistic experience of the area.
Learning about art and culture doesn't have to be boring. By taking advantage of the many educational opportunities available when you travel, you can make sure your kids have a fun and enriching experience that they'll never forget!
What are some places you like to visit with your kids when you travel? Leave your ideas in the comments section below this post!
C.J. (Carolyn) Braden is a regular contributor and editor for Carolyn’s Blooming Creations. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.
This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links. All opinions and ideas expressed in this post, however, are based on my personal point of view.