Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
Open Wed–Sun, 9 am–4 pm • Free Thur nights, 4 pm–8 pm • Get museum tickets
Let your curiosity run wild! Each week, children dive into nature-themed play—maybe you’ll meet a furry friend, plant something special, or get muddy on a garden adventure. From seed saving to storytelling, this program mixes science, play, and outdoor exploration in ways that grow kids’ confidence and love for nature.
Visit MCM for free every Thursday evening, 4–8 pm! Enjoy extended hours each Thursday, completely free of charge. Please check in at the admissions desk when you visit during free hours. Looking for more affordable ways to visit? During the rest of the week, MCM offers reduced cost admission and memberships every day to families […]
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 […]
Make your costume stand out with a handmade Halloween headband! Whether you dream of fairy wings, dinosaur spikes, monster horns, or something totally your own, we’ll have materials and inspiration ready. Bring your costume idea—or invent on the spot—and walk away with a wearable creation that shows off your Halloween spirit.
Sing, stomp, and hop to the beat with Junko "Junebug" Yamauchi. These energetic, interactive sessions blend lively music, playful rhythms, and storytelling elements that spark imagination. Junko’s joyful energy builds connection, confidence, and community—all through the magic of music and movement. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
Roll, shape, and sculpt with us on Friday afternoons! Join Art Studio staff to explore the magic of clay while creating pots, tiles, and shapes that will find a home here in the museum. It’s a hands-on way to leave your creative mark while learning the basics of ceramic art.
Madison Children’s Museum welcomes children and families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and sensory challenges to experience the museum during sensory-friendly hours, free of charge. This program aims to bring families together to learn through play in an environment that supports the unique needs of children with ASD. During this event, Public Health Madison Dane […]
Scoop, stir, and squish! In this calming, creative activity, kids and caregivers make their own colorful play dough to take home. It’s a great way to explore textures and scents in a low-stimulation space. Offered as part of our Sensory-Friendly Night, designed to support visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dances, group games and balance activities, we’ll enjoy different opportunities to move our bodies every day. Program location is subject to change, depending on the weather. Please check our Welcome Wall for the most up-to-date location information.This event is free with general museum admission.
Autumn leaves are more than just pretty—they're full of possibilities! Join us to turn leaves into curious characters, dramatic dioramas, or forest-fantasy scenes. With just a few natural materials, you can build a world where leaves become wings, whiskers, or wild expressions. You decide the story.
Unleash your imagination as you build a miniature scene filled with curious creatures and uncanny charm. Our “terrorium” project blends nature, art, and storytelling in a tiny world you create. Kids can build a diorama that’s mysterious or magical—whatever feels just right. All materials provided, and free with admission.
Get creative this Halloween season with hands-on crafts led by students from Edgewood High School's Smile Club. You'll make seasonal decorations and festive projects perfect for the season. Whether your style is creepy or cute, there's something for everyone to enjoy. All materials provided, and free with museum admission.
Join us for the cutest fall event in town: Baby's First Halloween! The museum will be open special hours on Tuesday, October 28 just for this boppin' baby party. Featured activities are slated to include: Magical Creature Bath Time Monster Block Stack "Spooky" Crawler Exploration Box Footprint Ghosties Sensory bins Photo opp in the museum […]
Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dances, group games and balance activities, we’ll enjoy different opportunities to move our bodies every day. Program location is subject to change, depending on the weather. Please check our Welcome Wall for the most up-to-date location information.This event is free with general museum admission.
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.
