What can kids learn from their festival experience?

People often ask me why I take my children to festivals. Sometimes I get the distinct impression that they think I am just dragging them along to something I enjoy and they have no choice but to put up with it. Nothing could be further from the truth. The overriding reason we go as a family is because we ALL enjoy it.  The kids don’t endure it – they actively look forward to it. But when I reflect on why I am so keen to support their love of festivals, it comes down to the benefits I perceive them to be getting.

There is so much opportunity for learning in the festival environment – so much going on in a very concentrated area and space of time. I tried to link these to traditional educational themes and was surprised at how easy it was to make a case for the educational benefits of festivals. A 5-minute brainstorm gave me the following, but given a little more time I’m sure the list would be far more comprehensive, and I would love you to add your thoughts as comments.

PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education) – self expression, cultures, keeping clean and festival hygiene, self reliance, independence, community spirit, social responsibility…

Geography – other cultures, world music, talks on origins of musical styles / dances / food / literature, weather conditions…

Science – textures and qualities of different materials such as clay, paint and dyes, understanding acoustics, weather patterns, cookery, environmental issues…

English Literature – spoken word (poetry, story telling), writers workshops, song writing…

Drama – theatre, film, performance, audience participation…

Art – on site art installations, hands on arts and craft workshops, creativity…

History – some festivals are set in the grounds of historic buildings…

Music – where else do children get the opportunity to see such a wide variety of instruments being played live?! Also drumming workshops, ukulele workshops, instrument making, digeridoo, singing…

Physical and Outdoor Education – circus skills, dance workshops, yoga, putting up tents, living outdoors, woodcraft…

Authorised absences:

So if you are struggling to get authorisation for absence during term-time, consider writing a letter to your Head teacher or local council stating specific educational benefits available to children at the particular event you are going to. I am hopeful that you will get a much warmer reception.

Please add to this post by way of comments, especially if you are an education professional or a parent.

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4. Romany, September 7th 2011

   If you took your kids to any festivals this year please send a review to us at chat@festivalkidz.com (chat null@null festivalkidz NULL.com) or use the simple online form: http://www.festivalkidz.com/festivals/submit-your-festival-reviews

   We’d love to hear what you thought, and it really helps other parents choose a festival that will suit them.

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