Childhood is a time where we are naturally curious about the world around us

But in the digital age, there is a fear that this natural curiosity is being replaced by screens and algorithms, taking children away from the real world, potentially causing proven damage to cognitive ability, and limiting the curiosity that should be instinctive.

There are many ways to encourage young and inquiring minds, and by exposing children to art and culture from a young age, they’ll grow up with an enriched education and an understanding of a range of perspectives and ideas.

If you’re looking to introduce your child to art, these are just five ways to guide their learning.

1. Teach through storytelling
Art comes to life when we understand not just the works, but the stories behind them.

And there are plenty of great resources that make art accessible to children - amongst them, books such as the Little People, Big Dreams! series which includes Frida Kahlo as well as Coco Chanel and a host of other notable women.

Other books about art history for kids include David Hockney & Martin Gayford’s A History of Pictures for Children and James Mayhew’s interactive Katie series, which allows children to explore art through the eyes of its protagonist exploring famous works of art.

2. Museum and art gallery trips
What better way to introduce children to art than to let them explore it for themselves in person!

Museums and art galleries let them experience art in an immersive environment and encourages them to consider what they like, what they don’t and why.

Take your child around an art gallery and encourage them to ask questions about artwork that interests them. They may even find a particular topic, painting or artist they want to research!

3. Teach them to DIY
The best thing you can do to engage your child’s creativity is to provide them with opportunities to do it.

Arts and crafts at home can be fairly cheap, and as simple as crayons on paper or materials like playdough.

Encourage them to explore art history by finding creative ways to reproduce famous works

4. Make it a game
As mentioned earlier, many educators have concerns about the impact of technology on young minds.

But technology can also be a supportive and educative tool that aids children in exploring questions, themes and ideas.

With educational tools like Flexiquiz, you can help them to master art history by testing their knowledge in a fun, gamified way.

5. Share your passion!
It sounds deceptively simple but children learn from their parents, so model that excitement for them!

Think about where your love for art comes from, who inspired you and how. That might be a former art teacher who taught you to explore a certain movement, or an artist whose work resonates with you.

One of the most important things to remember about teaching children is that natural passion shines through and can captivate them more than you realise. The most beloved teachers are the ones who are the most vibrant when teaching their subject.

Don’t think of it as teaching your children, but as sharing something with them.
These are just a few ways to encourage your child to experience art and learn about art history while exploring creativity.