Bernice Harrisonon alternatives to movies and the mall
Free art classes
Dublin
Budding artists, particularly in Dublin, have a huge choice this weekend of free classes. Held in public galleries, they're a great chance for children as young as four to get down on the floor with some paints, pencils and paper under the supervision, often, of professional artists. Contact the gallery before you travel to see if they prefer you to book: some do, some don't. The classes tend to be short - usually an hour - so they're definitely not a creche service, but they are long enough for small children and it's a perfect time for parents to grab a coffee in the gallery cafe. (Best to check first, as some classes prefer parents to stick around.) Kids get a thrill out of being able to make art and noise in a place they tend to be told to be quiet.
National Gallery of IrelandMerrion Square West, 01-6615133, www.national gallery.ie. Art plus storytelling, music and drama for four- to 10-year-olds. Today, 3pm-4pm.
Dublin City Gallery the Hugh LaneParnell Square North, 01-2225550, www.hughlane.i.e. Sketching for ages seven plus. Graffiti art. Tomorrow, 3pm-4pm.
Phoenix Park Visitor Centre01-6770095, www.heritage ireland.ie. Children's art workshop on pond life. Tomorrow, 10.30am-12.30pm.
ImmaChildren are encouraged to visit selected artworks, then use the art material provided to give their own take on them. Tomorrow.