Monet’s Garden for Kids

Angela Crocombe


Angela with her daughter at the exhibition of Monet’s Garden.

The Monet’s Garden exhibition at the NGV is undoubtedly a feast for the eyes, but the crowds can sometimes make it a little overwhelming for kids. Cue this wonderful book which allows children to engage with Monet and get to know more about the exhibition in their own time. Filled with fascinating facts about Monet, photographs of the actual paintings that appear in the exhibition and fun activities to do, this book helps kids engage with Monet’s art and life in a format suited just to them.

With the help of a little wren named Pierre, we are introduced to Monet’s milieu, influences and early life, even how he did at school (he didn’t like it much but received good grades). We learn that in the 1860s Monet’s painting style was considered radical and that his paintings were rejected by the revered Salon at the École des Beaux-Arts. We learn about the importance Monet placed upon working outside and what his daily routine consisted of, as well as his fascination with the ocean, painting the Rouen cathedral, overseas travel, and of course, his garden.

Each chapter includes quiz questions, fun facts and diverse activities, such as baking Monet’s favourite Tarte Tatin, enjoying a picnic like Monet did with his family and then drawing the event, and creating your own paper waterlilies. We loved making the waterlilies, which remained a feature on our dining table for many days.

Making paper waterlilies.

At the back of the book are templates for the activities and an illustrated list of all the works that are pictured. Perhaps the best way to utilise the book is to purchase it first and spend some time reading it with your children before visiting the NGV, and then they will be more familiar with the paintings and Monet’s life when they experience the exhibition first hand.

This is a wonderful resource for kids, particularly for budding artists and school projects. At only $14.95 it’s also an absolute bargain! Unlike the exhibition, which will soon be only a beautiful memory, this book will be a great reference worthy of revisiting again and again. Suitable for ages five plus.


If you’re looking to visit the exhibition don’t forget it closes in just over a week on Sunday 8 September. Read more

Cover image for Monet's Garden: A Book for Kids

Monet’s Garden: A Book for Kids

Kate Ryan

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