How to Spark Your Young Son's Interest in the Arts

While most little boys' rooms are saturated with toys cars, pictures of sports icons, and other traditionally "male" symbols of childhood, more and more modern parents are beginning to see the need for introducing their sons to the world of the arts as soon as possible. Not only will doing so expand his horizons, but giving your son the chance to explore the arts may increase his likelihood for success in his academic career. Young boys tend to have an interest in the arts at a young age, but are fearful of expressing that interest due to the intense pressure to remain "masculine." Help your son overcome ridiculous stigmas of the past and embrace an entire world of beauty that is available to him, without compromising his need to feel like a little man, by implementing the following strategies.

First, spark your son's interest in the arts by taking him to a child-oriented production. Local theatre companies often have entire children's programs that put on plays each year for their young target audience such as "Peter Pan," "A Christmas Carole," etc. While many lesser known but equally entertaining production options are likely to be offered, start off by taking your son to a play with a title that he is already familiar with. A production affiliated with a classic Disney movie or a nursery rhyme he likes is much more likely to impress him than a play with a brand new plot that will require a great deal of his attention. Remember, children of this era are used to TV and movie theatres that suck in a child's full focus. Make his first experience with the theater easy on his active mind so that he can relax and take in the entirety of the production and the new elements he will be exposed to in this form of entertainment.

Next, grow your son's new interest in the arts by taking him to an arts and crafts fair. While you might be tempted to take him directly to a museum, hold off on that move for the moment. Crafts have a function, and often vendors will offer handmade toys, jewelry, and other items of interest for children. Young children sometimes have difficulty placing meaning on traditional artwork, but your son will be likely to appreciate the functionality of the pieces he views at an arts and crafts fair. Not only that, but he will also love the family-friendly atmosphere of loud vendors, laughing children, cotton candy machines, homemade candy apples, and other kid-friendly elements that these exhibits often offer. He will be able to learn about art in an environment that allows him to still be a kid and have fun.

Next, consider enrolling your son in an art or theatre program. Most community colleges offer programs lasting anywhere from three days to three months for kids of all ages, with professionals who are trained to make learning about art fun for younger crowds (even little boys who were forced to enroll by their mothers). To make the idea more appealing to your little man, speak with his friends' parents about enrolling their sons, too. He's almost guaranteed to have fun regardless, but being able to bring his buddies along will make the experience that much more likely to occur, and that much more rewarding.

Once your son has dipped his toe into the waters of the arts world, let him dive in by taking the leap and bringing him along to a professional art exhibit. Be aware that his first reaction to complex artwork is likely to be confusion, but not necessarily boredom. Start by taking him to the photography section, which he'll be more likely to relate to. Next, slowly walk him through the paintings and other artwork and encourage him to select his favorites. Explain the content in a child-friendly manner of any piece that peaks his interest. Of course, you will have to be careful during this exercise, as children have a tendency to ask very pointed questions about more "mature" artwork. Be tactful and quick with any subject matter that might be inappropriate, and simply move on. Also, take advantage of the many child-oriented offerings that your museum is likely to have available. Often, museums have sections entirely devoted to young artists or work that is aimed at children. Call your local museum ahead of time for information on what may be available.

Finally, speak to your spouse about supporting you in this venture if you haven't already. Snide comments or lack of support can give your son the wrong impression. While a common misconception is that only fathers discourage their male children from having an interest in the arts, women are just as guilty. Make sure that your spouse is on your side from the beginning, and explain the harm that any negative comments can have on your son's independent development. Work as a team to give your young son a chance to experience an area of life that will bring him enlightenment, fulfillment, and intellectual growth.