American Art Family Day at SAAM

American Art Family Day at SAAM

SAAM puts on a family day in the middle of November, and it is one of the easier ways to get a younger kid into an art museum. There is a still life sketching workshop, plus hands-on activities set up right in the galleries, so your kids are drawing near the actual paintings instead of in a separate classroom.

The museum says the day works best for kids 12 and younger. It runs 11:30 to 3 on a Sunday, which is a workable window if you want to sleep in and still have the afternoon. Admission is free, like the rest of the Smithsonian. I would check americanart.si.edu for the exact room and any sign-up for the workshop, because the event page was thin when I looked.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Bring a jacket you can carry. Museum coat checks vary. A light layer that fits in a bag is easier than a puffy winter coat.
• ✓Start with the activity, then wander. Kids are most patient right after they have made something. Save the long walk through the galleries for after.
• ✓Walk through the Kogod Courtyard. The glass-roofed courtyard in the middle of the building is a good spot to let kids move around and regroup.
• ✓Confirm the workshop details. Check the museum's events page the week before for room, sign-up and any capacity limits.
• ✓Pair it with lunch in Chinatown. There are plenty of casual places within a few blocks, which saves you from eating at the museum.