Children learn the “Benefit of Play” at the National Museum and Art Gallery

August 13, 2018

Last year during the July-August vacation period, something exciting and innovative was taking place at the National Museum and Art Gallery that saw hundreds of eager youngsters flock to the Museum daily for playtime with a difference. This Royal Victorian Institute, with a more reserved demeanour, created a new experience; a space for children to stretch their bodies and mind as they laughed and learned through play.

The Children’s Gallery 2018, dubbed “the Benefits of Play”, is back again and is specially designed for children, with a series of fun, life-sized games which seek to reinforce the connection between children and the non-digital side of childhood. According to Lorraine Johnson, Curator (Ag) of the Museum, “we are constantly bombarding children with technology and they are presented with less opportunities to build their sensory and social skills. The Children’s Gallery addresses this gap while exposing children to the games that were part of our own childhood memories. It brings the generations together in one space.”

This year’s gallery features games such as a life-sized ‘Snakes and Ladder’, life-sized checkers, Dominos, Connect 4, Tic-tak-toe, Scrabble, puzzles, and the local board game ‘Santimanitay.’ From July 31st to Saturday 1st September, children (and adults) can visit the gallery, which would be open on Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 6pm. Admission to the gallery is free, and interested persons can contact the Museum at 623-0339.