Madison Children's Museum

Snuggle in for a delightful mix of stories, puppets, and songs! This trail-side program invites young children to explore emotions, rhythm, and imagination through movement and mindful moments. Grown-ups welcome, too—this is a peaceful pause for the whole family.

Explore the world of music and rhythm! Each week, Tim leads children in singing, rhythm games, and musical stories that inspire creativity and connection. It’s an engaging experience for kids and families—free with admission.

Join us for story time and hear Teresa read some of her favorite books using her DynaVox. With this speech-generating device, Teresa shares stories that help us build listening skills, develop early literacy, and celebrate each other’s differences. This event is free with general museum admission.

Join MCM art educator Ms. Laurie for a weekly burst of color, texture, and joyful experimentation. Young children can freely explore art materials in a welcoming space designed especially for our youngest artists. It’s creativity without limits—or cleanup. Come make a beautiful mess with us! Free with general admission.

Join our friends from the UW Neuroscience Training Program outreach team for brain-building activities and interact with REAL neurological specimens. Come learn how we think!This program is part of our Free Thursday Evenings, 4 pm to 8 pm each week.

This playgroup is expertly designed for our earliest visitors. We will provide a space for infants and toddlers (2 years and under) and their caregivers to explore and play together, and engage in unstructured play that supports various aspects of child development. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with one another over […]

Get your hands dirty as we plant wheatgrass and learn about how plants grow. Kids will explore the magic of roots, soil, and sprouts, then take their wheatgrass home to watch it grow tall. Once it's ready, blend it into a smoothie or share with your favorite furry friend!

Transform a simple stick into a one-of-a-kind yarn-wrapped figure. Choose your colors and personality—will your figure be a superhero, a sprite, or a stylish nature explorer? This creative challenge builds fine motor skills while sparking storytelling and imaginative play.

Turn imagination into architecture! Use wood blocks, fabric, buttons, beads, and more to build your own whimsical, mixed-media house sculpture. Whether it’s a fairy cottage, robot apartment, or treehouse with a twist, this open-ended art adventure encourages creativity through construction and storytelling.