Education and Fun in the State Capital

Those searching for a great family activity that the children will love as much as the adults should consider visiting the Madison Children's Museum. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits and a variety of educational programs suitable for individual enjoyment, as well as group learning. Typically, children ages six months through eight years enjoy the museum most. The museum uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines a variety of developmental levels of learning. Older children and adults may enjoy the exhibits, but will probably not experience the same challenged-induced learning as younger kids. Visits usually take about two hours, depending on how many breaks are taken. The museum is over 8,000 square feet. Visiting during morning hours and weekend days means you will be sharing the experience with others, and afternoon visits are usually quieter.

Parents are encouraged to allow their children to set the tone for the day. Insetad of following a tight visit schedule, enter the museum and see what catches your child's eye. If parents are comfortable, they can separate from their child, allowing them to enjoy the museum at their own pace and interact with other children. Obviously, children will need to be a certain age before separation is encouraged. Exhibits are designed to encourage parent-child interaction. Visitors are discouraged from bringing laptops and cells phones into the museum because they interupt quality family time.

When it is time for a break, visit one of the local restaurants in the area. The museum does not allow food or drinks inside, but visitors can picnic nearby, or enjoy some of Madison's fine cuisine. Many of the restaurants close to the museum are kid friendly and provide additional time to enjoy the company of your child. The museum is happy make dining recommendations for those who need them.

The museum is a great place for birthday parties and events. Kids can bring along their friends to celebrate the big day, and parents will be thrilled with the learning that goes on while kids are enjoying the party. The can explore and enjoy, all while sharing the company of their peers. Group visits are also available, and the museum is a popular field trip destination. Teachers often utilize the take home activities provided by the museum, and they incorporate them into their lessons. These take home activites are also available for individual visitors to the museum. This way, you can enjoy a day with your child and take home educational material to enhance the experience, and enjoy the memory in the coming weeks.

Museum memberships are available and entitle families to discounted admission and a variety of activities throughout the year. There are also camps operated during the year, giving kids organized experiences centering around the museum exhibits. If you live in the Madison area, or you are visiting the state capital, bring your children to the Madison Children's Museum. It is a day of fun and learning you and your family will not soon forget.