Inspiring children's creativity
Exposing children to the arts is a great opportunity to introduce them to new experiences and help them enjoy the creation and creative thinking processes. In addition, there are studies linking art in childhood development to improved social and emotional skills (National Endowment for the Arts, Social and Emotional Benefits of Arts Participation). Not every child will be the next van Gogh, but finding ways to inspire their creativity from an early age can help them develop skills that can be applied in more ways than through art.
From performing and visual arts to hands-on creation and interactive learning, there are several opportunities in the Fox Valley area to expose children to different art forms. The next time you are looking for a family-friendly outing, consider the numerous local destinations that can spark a child’s creativity, whether they’re your niece, nephew, sibling or grandchild. Taking your tot to create an original masterpiece at the Building for Kids Children’s Museum, letting your little geologist’s mind roam at the Weis Earth Science Museum and finding a fun performance at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center are just a few of the nearby options.
For additional arts opportunities, visit the Appleton Public Library to learn about the Fox Arts Network FAN Pass Program. The library has partnered with more than 20 local arts, educational and entertainment organizations to provide library card holders free offers that can be checked out.
There are other fun opportunities happening now at two museums in Appleton that children and adults will both enjoy. "Play: The Golden Age of Toys" is on display at the History Museum at the Castle. The exhibit invites guests to see and touch several vintage toys, including the Slinky, Etch-a-Sketch and Tinkertoys. On display at the Trout Museum of Art at the same time is "Golden Legacy: Original Art from 65 Years of Golden Books." This exhibition was organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature in Abilene, Texas. It features more than 60 masterpieces of original illustration art chosen from the vast Random House archives, including selections from such picture book classics as "The Poky Little Puppy" and "The Little Red Hen."
Having these two exhibits on display at the same time, right down the road from each other is an excellent opportunity for inter-generational learning. In addition, hands-on exhibit activities and corresponding events promote creative thinking and exploration. After enjoying the bright, colorful exhibit of interactive, classic toys at the History Museum at the Castle, visit the Trout Museum of Art to enjoy works from Golden Books classics. During this exhibit, we will also have weekly Children’s Story & Activity Times with special guest readers, where kids can be inspired by the books and create art projects.
Whether you have a family day planned, you’re looking after your grandchildren or you’re babysitting for family or a friend, try changing things up. Choose one of the many local exhibits, performances or art classes in our area for children, and encourage them to let their imaginations run free.
Molly Frederick is marketing manager of the Fox Cities Building for the Arts/Trout Museum of Art, a member of the Fox Arts Network. FAN is a grassroots arts organization made up of nonprofit arts groups serving the Fox Cities and surrounding communities with a goal of encouraging trial in all art forms. Email firstname.lastname@example.org.
VOICES OF THE ARTS
A community columnist from the Fox Valley arts community writes on issues, trends and observations from the arts world each Monday in Life. Today’s columnist is Molly Frederick, marketing manager, Fox Cities Building for the Arts/Trout Museum of Art.