Around Town

The problem
Maya, NW6 ‘Before we had kids we used to go to galleries all the time, but on the few occasions we’ve tried it since we become parents it’s been a disaster – fractious kids, irritated adults. Are we condemned to the life of philistines till they leave home?’

The prescription
No – but you may need to adopt a new battle plan. Any exhibition that relies on your being able to read extended captions is probably out. And unless you’re immune to the irritation of fellow art lovers you should be prepared to abandon an expedition that is boring your kids to the extent that they’re behaving badly – however much you were longing to see the show. You say ‘Screeching and sliding about on your bum isn’t suitable behaviour here. Unless you can look at the pictures calmly, we’ll have to leave.’ And then you have to follow through. You don’t visit the shop or the café – but there’s no need to give your kids a hard time because they didn’t find Hogarth’s prints, or whatever, riveting.

Many galleries go out of their way to be family-friendly. The approach varies. At Tate Modern and Tate Britain you can pick up art materials that mean children can enjoy a hands-on experience while you’re looking at the works. The National Gallery’s storytelling sessions offer under-fives a way to get to know one individual picture. Although the Royal Academy exhibitions aren’t free, its family tickets are very generous. It’s worth visiting the shop before a show and letting your kids choose postcards of pictures that appeal to them. That way, they can experience the same frisson of recognition adults enjoy when they come across the original.

Do you agree? Post your suggestions for child-friendly culture in the capital.

Email your cultural problem to cultureclinic@timeout.com.
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