Next time you're standing in front of a wall of art with your child(ren), skip asking "which one is your favorite?" and try this instead: Find the work of art that YOU needed to see today.

It might sound like a small change, but it can have big consequences to move from asking your child what looks best to what speaks to them...

for whatever reason...

right now...

on this particular day.

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We love this question because it turns looking into feeling AND connecting.

Children (and plenty of grown-ups) can feel stuck when asked to judge art. This prompt doesn't ask us to judge anything. It asks us to notice what's going on inside ourselves, and THEN find something outside that matches it.

Especially when we do not have the words to describe how we are feeling inside, looking at artwork (outside) can help us make sense of our inner worlds.

For example, a child who can't say "I'm feeling overwhelmed" might be able to say "I needed to see the blue one because it looks quiet," and isn't it helpful to hear that? Imagine where your conversation might go next...

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So, the next time you are aboard the cARTie art museum bus (or inside any art/museum space), try this:

1. Check in. Before you look at any art, ask: "How are you feeling today?" Simple gestures (thumbs up) and quick phrases (happy) might be all you will get, and that is okay!

2. Next, set the scene: "Let's each find a work of art that we needed to see today, for whatever reason!"

3. Take a slow lap. Model wandering and close looking for YOUR piece you needed to see today.

4. Go on a mini tour. Take turns showing each other your chosen works of art and explaining why you needed to see it today.

5. Keep the conversation going with questions like: What's the first thing you noticed about this piece? If this artwork could talk, what would it say to you? How do the colors make you feel? Is there a part of it you'd want to step inside? Does it remind you of a person, place, or memory? What would you name it if you were the artist? Do you think you'd pick the same one tomorrow?

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Visit www.cARTie.org/events to plan your next trip aboard the cARTie art museum bus.

We can't wait to explore together!