Chloe Ashby/The Guardian
It all started at the Royal Academy. I was trying – without much success – to focus on the monumental and imaginative paintings of Kerry James Marshall.
Meanwhile, my toddler was trying – equally unsuccessfully – to run through the gallery halls without bumping into visitors’ feet. When he threw his toy piggy bank like a bowling ball, sliding it under one of the low barriers that keep the artworks at a distance, I wondered: do small children and art go together?
Was it selfish of me to choose this gallery over a more kid-friendly space? And how could I make this experience more enjoyable for both of us?
These are some of the questions this series aims to address, exploring the pleasures – but also the dangers – of introducing very young children to art. In the coming weeks, I’ll be visiting galleries, museums, interactive exhibits and sculpture parks with my son: some designed for him, others… more for me. Along the way, I’ll share his experiences, his feedback and practical advice – from wheelchair accessibility to kid-friendly facilities and fees.
According to a 2024 study in the UK, 92% of parents believe that visiting museums or galleries is beneficial for children. However, 45% see these spaces as not very welcoming for them, while 68% have felt judged. More than half are afraid that children might run away and damage something.
I understand this feeling all too well. Just a few days ago, I was asked to hold my son's hand at a museum—which I did, until that little hand came off again. A friend was forced to leave a video installation she had purchased a ticket for after someone complained about her child's loudness. Another described a visit to the gallery as an intense physical workout.
So, is all this fatigue, anxiety, and sometimes embarrassment worth it?
Yes – I think so. At least I hope so.
Not only because I want to spend time with art, but also because, on days when I'm not taking care of the kids, my son is a part of my life – and my experiences. It's true that I prefer galleries to play corners, but that doesn't mean he can't enjoy art in his own way.
It is important to me that he feels comfortable in public cultural institutions, which are often free. Studies show that children who visit museums from a young age are more likely to continue to visit them as adults. In addition, there are clear benefits for development, mental health and well-being.
Fortunately, things have changed. Once upon a time, museums were silent and static places. Today, more and more of them are open to children – especially those under five. Various initiatives have emerged to make the experience more inclusive and lively.
However, the dilemma remains: should I choose activities dedicated to children, or just take him with me to exhibitions that I want to see for myself? Am I looking for education, entertainment, or both? And how do I deal with the fact that children are completely unpredictable?
As for the toy pig at the Royal Academy – I sheepishly went to a staff member to tell him what had happened. He came with me, bent down to look under a metal grille and said he wasn't sure how to get it out.
“Not there,” I said. “Over there.” I pointed to the painting behind him, thankfully intact.
“Oh, you can take it yourself,” he said. “Those ropes are just for show.” /GazetaExpress/
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