Culture Dose
We’re inviting children aged 9–12 who are experiencing mild anxiety, along with their parents or caregivers, to take part in a calming and engaging eight-week art program at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery.
Culture Dose
Culture Dose for Kids 2026
Saturdays, 8 August – 26 September 2026
10 – 12 pm
For children experiencing mild anxiety
We’re inviting children aged 9–12 who are experiencing mild anxiety, along with their parents or caregivers, to take part in a calming and engaging eight-week art program at Shoalhaven Regional Gallery.
Engagement with the arts can help young people connect to their feelings, thoughts and imagination. It can build self-confidence and resilience, foster social connections and improve mental health and wellbeing.
This free program will provide a safe, structured space for young people and their parents or caregivers to engage with and respond creatively to artworks in a small group setting.
Led by art gallery facilitators, the program will be held over eight consecutive Saturdays between 10 am and 12 pm. A program for the participants’ parents or caregivers will run at the same time. All art materials, resources and afternoon tea will be provided.
Culture Dose for Kids™ is a program led by the Art Gallery of New South Wales and developed from a research study conducted by the Black Dog Institute.
For more information, email GalleryPrograms@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au or call 02 44295444. To learn more about this program, view Culture Dose™.
Registrations open 29 May and close 3 July 2026
Admission to this FREE program is by application form.
“Culture Dose™ and the Culture Dose for Kids™ programs were developed by the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Black Dog Institute with the support of the Jibb Foundation. The regional program is presented with support from the Ottomin Foundation.”
Can siblings or friends attend?
Only children enrolled in the program may attend. We are unable to accommodate siblings or additional guests.
What if my child is shy or prefers not to speak in groups?
Children are never forced to speak or share. They are encouraged to respond in whatever way feels comfortable – whether by speaking, drawing in their art journals or other creative activities.
Will my child’s art be displayed in the art gallery?
No, but their work will be celebrated in our Workshop Room space and among the group.
Who facilitates the program?
Culture Dose for Kids is delivered by experienced art gallery facilitators who are trained in working with children and accompanied by the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Education and Audience Engagement team.
What if we miss a session?
We understand things happen. Please notify us in advance if your child is unable to attend a session.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted via an online form. Due to limited capacity (12 families), we encourage early submissions. Once registrations close, it will take approximately three weeks to review all registrations. During this time, a staff member will contact you for a brief conversation to get to know you and your child better. You will be notified via email if your child has been offered a place.
Can I drop off my child and leave?
No, Culture Dose for Kids is designed for parents/caregivers to take part in the program. Adults will explore artworks in a parallel session and then join their child for the art-making component.
Can I bring more than one parent/caregiver?
Yes, more than one parent or caregiver is welcome to attend. We understand that every family is different, and having additional support can make the experience even more enjoyable and comfortable for your child.
If you plan to bring more than one adult, please let us know when registering so we can prepare adequate resources.
What should we bring?
All materials are provided. A light morning tea is included. Please notify us of any dietary requirements or allergies when registering.
Can my child attend if they have specific access needs?
Yes. The program is inclusive, and we welcome children with access requirements. Please include relevant information in your application so we can provide appropriate support.
Can siblings or friends attend?
Only children enrolled in the program may attend. We are unable to accommodate siblings or additional guests.
What if my child is shy or prefers not to speak in groups?
Children are never forced to speak or share. They are encouraged to respond in whatever way feels comfortable – whether by speaking, drawing in their art journals or other creative activities.
Will my child’s art be displayed in the art gallery?
No, but their work will be celebrated in our Workshop Room space and among the group.
Who facilitates the program?
Culture Dose for Kids is delivered by experienced art gallery facilitators who are trained in working with children and accompanied by the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Education and Audience Engagement team.
What if we miss a session?
We understand things happen. Please notify us in advance if your child is unable to attend a session.