Finding Kid-Friendly Open Houses

This May, I'm taking part in Dulwich Artists Open House together with Creations Atelier. Four of us are exhibiting in Natalia Giacomino's ground floor flat in Herne Hill and it's a thrill for me to go back to this lovely part of London I used to call home for so many years!

I'm exhibiting alongside Natalia, of course, as well as fellow artists Michelle Baharier and Mark Coster and we're always happy to welcome children to our events!

The key to a successful family outing is choosing the right venues. While most artists welcome visitors of all ages, some spaces are inherently more child-friendly than others. Before you set off, browse the event's official website or brochure. Organisers often use icons or descriptions to highlight houses that are particularly suitable for families, featuring things like garden access, hands-on activities, or ground-floor studios for easy pram access.

Look for artists whose work is colourful, large-scale, or tells a story, as this often captures a child's imagination more readily than purely abstract pieces. Venues clustered together can also be a great option, allowing you to create a mini art trail without tiring out little legs. Prioritising these locations helps ensure the day is one of the best family art events London has to offer, filled with discovery rather than difficulty.

Engaging Children with Art

Keeping children engaged in an art environment is about making the experience interactive and fun. Instead of simply looking, encourage them to explore with their minds and eyes. Turning the visit into a game is a fantastic strategy to foster curiosity and prevent boredom. This approach helps them connect with the artwork on their own terms, building a positive foundation for art appreciation that can last a lifetime.

Turning a visit into an adventure

Create a simple visual scavenger hunt before you go. Your list could include items like 'Find a painting with a dog', 'Spot a sculpture made from wood', 'Find something that is your favourite colour', or 'Count how many yellow things you can see in this room'. We did this the first time we took my older son the the British Museum and he had a blast running around with his list, learning about everything from Ancient Egypt to the Rosetta Stone. Of course, I don't encourage running in my studio, but sometimes you can't help it!

You can also play 'Art I Spy' or ask them to choose which piece of art they would want in their bedroom and why. Encouraging children to talk to the artists is also a brilliant way to engage them; they can ask simple questions like 'What is this made of?' or 'How long did it take to make?'.

Interactive Art Activities for Kids

Many artists participating in open house events understand the importance of inspiring the next generation and often provide art activities for children. This is something we often do at South London Women Artists' events, where the artists are more than happy to entertain little ones. Many artists have experience teaching art to children and offer short rewarding activities kids can do, alongside cake and fruit... These hands-on opportunities are the highlight for many young visitors, allowing them to move from being passive observers to active creators. These moments of creativity are what make the experience truly special and memorable for the whole family.

When scanning the event listings, keep an eye out for mentions of workshops or interactive displays. These can vary widely but are always a huge hit with younger audiences. Some common offerings include:

• Artist-led mini workshops: Simple, drop-in sessions where kids might try printmaking, clay modelling, or collage.
• Communal drawing walls: A large sheet of paper or a chalkboard where everyone is invited to add to a collaborative masterpiece.
• Tactile sculptures: Some artists create robust pieces that are designed to be touched (always ask for permission first!).
• Art-themed storytelling: An artist might talk about the stories behind their paintings, captivating a young audience.

Child-Friendly Venues and Amenities

Practical considerations can make or break a day out with children. Beyond the art itself, the environment and facilities play a huge role in everyone's comfort and enjoyment. Planning your route around venues that offer the right amenities will result in a much more relaxed and pleasant experience. It's worth remembering that these are often private homes, so facilities can be limited, making pre-planning essential.

Check the open house map for venues located near public parks or playgrounds. This allows you to break up the art-viewing with some time for running around and letting off steam. Note which houses  are near child-friendly cafes for lunch or a snack break. For those with very young children, identifying venues with toilet access and baby changing facilities is important. Accessibility for prams and pushchairs is another key factor; look for ground-floor studios or those with minimal steps to ensure a hassle-free visit.

Safety Tips and Practical Considerations

Navigating an artist's home and studio requires a level of awareness to ensure the safety of both your children and the artwork. A few simple ground rules, established before you enter the first house, can help the day run smoothly. The main goal is to create a respectful environment where art can be appreciated without the risk of accidental damage, ensuring a positive experience for your family and the host artist.

The most important rule is 'Look with your eyes, not your hands'. Explain to children that many artworks are delicate and can be easily damaged. Keep toddlers and young children close, especially in crowded spaces or rooms with fragile sculptures or ceramics. When planning your London artist open house kids adventure, remember to pack water and snacks to be consumed outside the venues. Finally, don't try to see everything. Many Open House Events are spread over a few days or even weekends so there's no rush. Pick three or four venues that are close together and enjoy them at a leisurely pace to avoid sensory overload and fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)