NGV Kids on Tour 2026

Children enjoying drawing and making together. Photo: Tom Ross.

Ages 3+ (young children may need the help of an adult). 

We wear hats for many reasons. Hats can protect us from the sun, rain or cold weather. They can also be part of a uniform, express style, or represent a special tradition or celebration. 

A party hat is usually cone-shaped and secured with an elastic string under your chin. It’s often worn at birthday parties or celebrations like New Year’s Eve. 

In this activity, children are invited to decorate a party hat with stickers. Making and wearing party hats helps kids develop, fine motor skills.  

 

 Wedgwood Scent bottle c. 1785, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.

Ages 12+. This activity could also be conducted with primary school aged children. 

In the 1700s, perfume was a big trend across Europe. People started favouring lighter, floral scents instead of the heavy perfumes that were used to cover up bad smells. 

Perfume bottles became stylish accessories crafted from luxurious materials such as glass, porcelain, and silver. Inspired by a small Wedgwood bottle decorated with raised classical designs and topped with a silver lid and jasperware stopper, this drawing activity young people to complete the design. 

Using their favourite imagery from nature, fantasy, street art, or pop culture, participants will be encouraged to imagine and express their personal style.

 

Children are invited to explore the natural world through engaging in creative activities by contemporary artist, Olaf Breuning. 

• Drawing activities: Nature and Us with Olaf Breuning 

• Storytime: My Nature Book with Olaf Breuning 

These activities help children develop their observation and drawing skills, while fostering a deeper understanding of ecology and biodiversity. 

Nature and Us with Olaf Breuning 

A child enjoying drawing. Photo: Deshani Berhardt.

Suitable for all ages (young children may need the help of an adult). 

In this creative drawing activity, children can find out what makes a forest the perfect home for birds, insects and bugs, as well as woodland animals. As they draw, they learn about forest habitats, the relationships between plants and discover how different environments support wildlife.  

My Nature Book with Olaf Breuning. Photo: NGV.

Take a walk through the forest with artist Olaf Breuning in My Nature Book, a charming story that brings nature to life. For this activity, present a storytime session where young children can participate by acting out new words on each page. Before long, everyone will be singing like birds, crawling like bugs and buzzing like bees. 

About My Nature Book with Olaf Breuning 

This delightful board book features vibrant woodblock paintings and joyful illustrations by Olaf Breuning, making it an ideal introduction to the wonders of nature for young minds. With its playful designs and interactive elements, it’s the perfect read for toddlers who are just beginning to explore the world around them.