Children interpret the meaning and purpose of art and generate a never-ending stream of questions.
Results: An emerging ability to think critically and independently.
Arts as concrete objects provide the foundation to be able to understand abstract ideas… When museums engage young children in these types of experiences and conversations, young children are better prepared to be global citizens… Children are open-minded, creative, and willing to share ideas generously.
The willingness of children to participate and imagine without fear of being wrong gives adults permission to do the same, making our collections and exhibitions more meaningful to everyone… So how does a child have a good experience at a museum? It starts with community, relevance, and meaningful engagement.
They [museums] can provide memorable, immersive learning experiences, provoke imagination, introduce unknown worlds and subject matter, and offer unique environments for quality time with family.
As we tour the children through the SJIMA exhibitions, each grade level will focus on a different art concept, appropriate for their level of understanding. The program is focused on the needs of the student and their ability to absorb and put these concepts to practical use. Examples: Kindergarten: Shape; Grade 1: Color; Grade 2: Line and pattern; Grade 3: Form; Grade 4: Texture and Grade 5: Value and Emphasis.
Please go to the link below to support SJIMA’s customized student arts education program.
Additional Information for Further Reading
Anna Forgerson Hindley, Cynthia Raso, and Tiffany McGettigan. "Why Museums Should Care About Young Children." American Alliance of Museums
Gross, Rebecca. "The Importance of Taking Children to Museums." National Endowment for the Arts