Introducing children to the arts is an important part of growth and education. By encouraging your kids to explore the world of art from an early age, you’ll help them develop motor skills, learn to make decisions, improve language skills, become culturally aware, and much more.
There are many opportunities for parents to encourage their kids to explore and develop through the arts right here in San Diego. Here are just a few of the San Diego kids’ activities that you and your children can enjoy:
San Diego Museum of Art
Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art is a fun place to explore paintings, sculptures, and other artistic pieces with your kids. Instead of just browsing, engage your kids by asking them what they think about each piece. Start a discussion, ask open-ended questions, and encourage your kids to think about the artist’s motivation or inspiration.
The museum offers several family-oriented events and programs, making the visit fun for everyone. Every Sunday, for example, stop by their Family Drop-In Days for hands-on, art-making activities. Teens can also stop by their Teen Art Cafe, held twice during the school year, to make art and meet with artists.
Looking for summer activities for the kids? The museum also offers several different options for summer camps, for kids of all ages.
San Diego Civic Theater
The San Diego Civic Theater offers a wonderful experience for kids that are a bit older, who can truly enjoy the world of live theater. Take them here to watch some of the greatest theatrical and musical performances! Plus, this venue doesn’t stop at live theater; they also host music concerts as well. Visit San Diego Theater online for a listing of upcoming shows and musicals.
Museum of Photographic Arts
The Museum of Photographic Arts is full of inspiration and education. The museum contains a broad collection of photography, film, and video presentations and collections. During the summer the museum offers a camp for kids featuring different photographic activities and outdoor adventures each day. They also offer a variety of programs and classes for all ages throughout the year that explore the art of photography, film, and video.
For admission prices and museum hours, visit their main site. If you would like information on their classes and theater hours visit their calendar.
Private Music Lessons with TakeLessons
If you want you child to experience a more one-on-one activity, consider private music lessons! TakeLessons.com offers a variety of different music and art lessons, so your child can learn how to play the violin, piano, drums, guitar, and much more. You can find a teacher near you and book lessons that work for your family’s schedule and budget. The site is easy to use, and your online account helps you keep track of your child’s lesson schedule and goals.
The New Children’s Museum
One of the most interactive San Diego kids’ activities is a visit to The New Children’s Museum. This place is all about the hands-on experience. Kids can enjoy many different workshops and activities, all designed to allow children and families explore creative art and design processes. Some of the experiences include a paint farm, clay bakeshop, DIY food trucks, papermaking, and a garden workshop.
For hours and more information visit The New Children’s Museum online.
Pottery Classes
In the Spanish Village Art Center in the heart of Balboa Park, you and your kids can find ongoing pottery classes. Sculptors ages 6 and up can enjoy learning about clay and make their own beautiful masterpieces. Classes are on Saturdays from 10:30 to 12:30 and are $20.00 each.
Crafts for Kids with the Lakeshore Learning Store
The Lakeshore Learning Store also plays a part in San Diego kids’ activities. Their stores host a “Crafts for Kids” class every Saturday from 11am to 3pm, featuring a different craft each week, such as making picture frames, puppets, bookmarks, hats, or card holders. Each class has a unique and creative theme that embraces different cultures, and a love of arts and reading.
San Diego Junior Theatre
If you are looking for San Diego kids’ activities geared for children that love theater, check out San Diego Junior Theatre. Throughout the year, children from the ages of 4 to 18 can participate in classes and camps specializing in acting, voice, dance and theater specialties. The theater produces shows year-round that you and your kids can go watch.
Check out their calendar of events to find shows and auditions.
These are only a few of all the San Diego kids’ activities available for you and your family. No matter which venues you visit, keep art in the picture. Your children will love the experience and develop an appreciation for creativity – and you will be providing them with education and early development advantages. It’s a win-win!
Photo by tauchris
Megan L.