If you’re looking for a way to introduce art into your child’s life, greater Indianapolis has got you covered with Wee Wednesdays at the IMA! My favorite spot to learn about art is the Indianapolis Museum of Art but it’s not easy to be immersed in a painting or sculpture while shushing my two year old as she’s trying to climb the dragon vase. Thankfully the IMA shares my passion for children exploring the arts and has many options for families to explore the museum and grounds. We’ve been to the museum on Family Day, seen Saturday morning movies and just had the opportunity to check out Wee Wednesdays. Their programs range for children of all ages but Wee Wednesdays is perfect for my almost 3 year old.
What is ‘Wee Wednesdays’?
Wee Wednesdays is geared for children 2-5 but don’t let that stop you from bringing your younger children. There were several families that had their babies in a carrier or stroller while their toddler was able to be a part of the activities. You’ll meet Ashli in the lobby who will give your child an art smock as well as a name tag. If your child is like mine, and new to the program, they will refuse the smock and put their name tag on you. You’ll then head upstairs to the Star Studio Classroom where the guide will explain to the children what they’ll be looking for in the gallery by way of song. Our song was telling us we’d be looking for pets throughout the art work.
Off we went to the galleries with a photo in hand where the guide would have the children look at the photo and find that art piece within the gallery. Once all of the children had found the piece she would give a background on the piece in a way they found interesting.
The children loved circling up for story time right in the middle of the gallery to listen to a story called The Moose Belongs to Me. One piece of pottery we were looking for had a painting depicting a goat standing under an arch to symbolize it’s home. This piece of art lead us right back to the Star Studio where we made habitats for the finger puppet pets we were given.
We all talked about habitats and what that animal might need to survive in their home. I was very pleased with the integration of art education and nature at a level the toddlers could understand. It’s no surprise this event sells out within hours of it’s announcement.
It was coming close to nap time but we couldn’t leave without a short round of mini golf (free with admission). Although she was no Tiger Woods, she giggled with excitement at each new hole we came upon. You can also find a snack bar outside at the mini golf area but we opted to have lunch at the IMA Cafe. The food at the IMA Cafe is delicious but next time I’d like to pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the gardens or 100 Acres.
More Information
Wee Wednesdays runs every Wednesday from 11a-noon at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The Museum is located at 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208. Meet in the lobby with activities taking place in the Star Studio. $8 Members | $12 non-members | Free for grown-ups and children under 2 (ticket required). Registration for this even it required and it sells out within hours of the announcement. Unfortunately the remaining dates through December of 2016 are sold out but you can sign up for the newsletter to be first informed for the next session. To be placed on the waitlist email weewednesdays@imamuseum.org. For more information, visit imamuseum.org or call (317)- 923-1331
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