Taking Your Child to Their First Concert
While it seems that concerts are generally attended mostly by teens and adults, there has been a recent trend in parents beginning to take their children to these types of events. For some parents, the motivation comes in their desire to share something they enjoy with their kids. For others, it is about creating positive family experiences around a much-loved form of entertainment. Whatever the driving factor, there are a few things for parents to consider when taking their child to their first concert. Common worries include whether the child is old enough to attend such an event, whether it is safe for kids, and whether everybody will have a better time together rather than if the child is left at home. Here is a quick guide on taking your child to their first concert and how to have a great time while you’re at it!
Is this a good idea?
There is no rule of thumb regarding the perfect age at which you can take your child to his or her first concert, or which type of concert is best for what age. You know your child best, and it is up to you to use your knowledge to make the best decision for the situation. Start by asking a few basic questions. Is your child okay with loud music? Can he or she sit still for extended periods? Are they okay with being in big crowds made up mostly of strangers? If you think any of these situations are too much for your child to handle, you may want to find a good babysitter and leave your child at home this time around. On the other hand, if you think you and your child are ready to give it a try, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Preparing for the Event
Share your excitement - In the days leading up to the concert, share your excitement with your child. Kids pick up on emotional cues from their parents and form their own responses accordingly. Being excited about the show is a great way to elicit excitement about the concert from your child.
Seating Arrangements
Stick to venues with reserved seating: When you’re going with kids, it is a good idea to stick to concerts that have fixed seating arrangements for the audience. Avoid General Admission shows as you have no control over the seats you get and this can be especially disadvantageous with a child in tow.
Choosing the right seats: When reserving seats for your child’s first concert, you don’t want to spend too much for a show you cannot guarantee you or your child will enjoy. Seats at the back have multiple benefits in this case – you’re not too close to the music, you can make a quick getaway if your child needs a break and you end up paying less for the ticket. Also try to get aisle seats so that you can leave the hall and return if necessary without disturbing others in the audience.
Safety and Comfort
Avoid high-energy concerts: Concerts where high-energy, unpredictable crowds are expected are unsafe for kids. Somewhat deafening sounds and inappropriate behavior are all common occurrences at certain types of concerts and are dangerous and frightening for young children.
Use ear protection: Kids’ ears are especially sensitive to loud noises, and many kids are even bothered by sounds like that of the mixer or vacuum cleaner. Both for your child’s safety as well as comfort, a good pair of headphones are a must if you’re planning to take him or her to a concert.
Food and entertainment: Snacks will very likely be over-priced at the concert venue, and your child is likely to want plenty of them! Pack some of her favorite snacks, lots of water and a favorite toy or coloring book in case she gets bored of the performance on stage. Needless to say, the toy should be one that can be enjoyed in silence.
Outdoor venues: A blanket and a few pillows will help your child get comfortable at outdoor concerts.
Keep your Expectations Low
Kids will be kids. They will get squirmy after sitting in a seat for too long, they will need bathroom breaks, they will get bored and then tired, and they may not be interested in the same things that interest you. Do not let this discourage you. Just keep your expectations low and be prepared to leave the venue early, take regular breaks in between or carry a sleeping child to the car at the end of it. And even if your child does not show much interest in the performance, be assured that she is absorbing a lot more than you realize.
