When To Take Children To Cultural Events?
Allow the child to get bored at a cultural outing and in that sense you may lose him forever. That is why it is essential to understand when to take children to cultural events, i.e. when they can enjoy art.
By art we mean the different expressions related to culture. Not only exhibitions of paintings and sculptures, but also book fairs and literary presentations, trips to discover history or architectural beauties, theater, music and various activities.
For the event to be enjoyable, it must be suitable for the age of the child; alternatively, it must be adapted with activities that can be attractive, fun, exciting or even inspiring.
When to take children to cultural events?
It may seem strange, but the time to take the child to cultural events – starting with puppet shows, circus or theater always suitable for his age – comes early, already around the age of two.
So argues a study conducted by the UOC, University of Catalonia. According to the researchers, this type of event offers many benefits to the child, but not before this age.
It is necessary that the shows be adapted to his possibilities. A two-year-old child, let us remember, has very limited attention span and concentration. This means she can quickly lose interest in what she sees and hears if the content isn’t thoughtfully designed or organized for her age.
Shows must be prepared taking into account the child’s auditory and visual attention. This aspect is crucial, in addition to the duration of the event which should not exceed three quarters of an hour. The music must be lively and rhythmic, the characters colorful and showy so that the child does not lose interest or get bored.
Factors to consider:
According to psychologist Mireia Cabrero, researcher at UOC and co-author of the aforementioned study, it is important to take into account some rules or restrictions when planning a visit or cultural event.
The first rule concerns the nature of the show or event. If annoying, harassing or frightening characters are expected, it is best to avoid it. A stimulus of this type could, in fact, have a negative effect on the child’s nervous system.
The time to take advantage of culture is, in general, always good, whatever it is. It is important, however, that the activity is in line with the age of the child and with characteristics appropriate and appropriate to the stage of development he is going through.
Shows for children
For some years now, more attention has been paid to the staging of shows aimed at users with specific needs. In particular, the focus is on the stimulation of the little ones.
The study conducted by the Catalan university warns, however, that the usefulness of this type of cultural event is relative. The auditory and visual stimulation offered by these shows can be easily obtained at home, without difficulty and at no cost. Ultimately, according to UOC researchers, these shows are not essential for the development of the baby.
They are not, however, necessarily negative. It all depends on the cultural habits of the parents. It is also likely that at a certain age the child himself develops an interest in these events, so it can be a way to immediately involve and attract children to culture. A motivating way to stimulate their curiosity.
Ultimately: how to understand when to bring children to cultural events? Using common sense and choosing good activities that ignite emotions and interest.
