How I did it: Early last year I started noticing my nephews, particularly my nephew "E", were becoming very passionate about drawing.  I asked them if they'd like to go to the San Francisco MoMa to see other people draw and paint.  They were very enthusiastic about the idea so I started hatching a plan with my sister-in-law and mother to plan a day out.

For Christmas I bought my nephews sketchbooks, drawing pencils and a pencil case.  When we finally went to the MoMa last Saturday they had already filled 25% of their sketchbooks.

We spent the day looking at art, doing a museum-run scavenger hunt for kids, taking the kids tour, drawing and talking about some of the paintings. We also stopped at the cafe on the fifth floor for some hot chocolate and sandwiches.

Lessons & tips: Depending on the age of your nephews (or nieces!) I would tailor your day based their level of understanding and patience.

For instance, my oldest nephew (age 7) was very keen on participatory exercises and games, while my younger nephew (age 5) was a little bored at times or overwhelmed, but he loved being able to draw on his own schedule.

Be sure to watch for signs of waning interest.  The point is for the day to be fun not "work" for the kids.  I also tried to actively engage my nephews in discussion about some of the pieces like "What colors do you see in this painting? What shapes?  Do you think the painter/artist was happy, sad, angry, etc when he/she made this?  How would you make this piece of art differently?  How does this piece of art make you feel?  Do you think it's funny or weird or stupid or interesting, etc?"

I didn't ask too many questions, just enough to get them talking and thinking a little bit.  They had plenty of questions for me too, so it was fun being able to see things from their perspective (which taught me a thing or two, as well!).

Resources: www.sfmoma.org (My membership got my mom and I in for free and kids under 12 are also free.  Regular adult tickets are $18.00 + fee for any special exhibit)

CVS, Blick, or craft stores for basic art supplies

Your imagination!

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Jan 18, 2011, 10:12AM PST | 0 comments | 10 cheers