Mini Art Critics: Encouraging Kids to Share Their Thoughts on Art

When visiting a museum or exploring art at home, encouraging children to share their thoughts and feelings about what they see is a wonderful way to foster creativity and critical thinking!

Here are some tips: 

1. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Start by asking open-ended questions that prompt your child to think more deeply about the art they’re observing. Instead of asking, "Do you like this painting?" try questions like, "What do you think is happening in this picture?" or "How does this artwork make you feel?" These types of questions encourage your child to explore their thoughts and emotions, leading to richer discussions.

2. Encourage Descriptive Language

Help your child expand their vocabulary by encouraging them to use descriptive language when talking about art. Ask them to describe the colors, shapes, and textures they see. For example, "What colors stand out to you?" or "Can you describe the patterns in this sculpture?" This not only enhances their observational skills but also builds their confidence in expressing themselves.

3. Compare and Contrast

A great way to develop critical thinking is by encouraging your child to compare and contrast different pieces of art. Ask them to look at two artworks and discuss the differences and similarities. Questions like, "How is this painting different from the one we saw earlier?" or "What do these two sculptures have in common?" help them make connections and consider multiple aspects of the artwork.

4. Make It Personal

Encourage your child to connect with the art on a personal level. Ask them how the artwork relates to their own experiences or feelings. For instance, "Does this painting remind you of anything in your life?" or "If you were in this picture, what would you be doing?" Personal connections make the art more meaningful and memorable for your child.

5. Create a Safe Space for Opinions

It’s important to create a safe and supportive environment where your child feels comfortable sharing their opinions, even if they differ from others. Reinforce that there are no right or wrong answers when it comes to interpreting art. Praise their efforts to express their thoughts, and encourage them to listen to others’ perspectives as well. This helps them understand that art is subjective and can be appreciated in many different ways.

6. Encourage Art Journaling

Provide your child with a sketchbook or journal where they can write down or draw their thoughts about the art they encounter. They can use the journal to record their favorite pieces, write down their impressions, or sketch their own interpretations. This not only helps them organize their thoughts but also serves as a creative outlet that they can look back on in the future.

7. Discuss the Artist’s Intentions

Introduce your child to the idea that artists often create with specific intentions or messages in mind. Ask them to consider what the artist might have been trying to convey. "What do you think the artist was thinking when they created this?" or "Why do you think the artist chose these colors?" These questions encourage your child to think beyond their own perspective and consider the artist’s point of view.

At Page of Art History, we believe that every child has the potential to become a mini art critic, ready to explore the world of art with curiosity and imagination.