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
Free Admission All Day At Madison Children's Museum, fostering community with children, families, and neighbors is at the core of our mission, and that work has never felt more important. We stand in solidarity with children and families, today, and always. Until Black and Brown families are safe from inequitable treatment and violence, no one […]
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 […]
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.
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.
Virtual reality meets real-life learning in this mind-expanding STEAM experience! Travel through ecosystems, explore natural patterns, and see how everything in nature connects—all in an immersive, interactive digital environment. It’s a whole new way to look at the world.
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.
Explore the science behind spinning by designing and decorating your own tops and spinners. Will yours spin smoothly or wobble wildly? Tinker, test, and try again as you discover how physics, symmetry, and surface shape affect every spin.
Join Art Studio Manager Laurie for a playful project that blends sculpture, craft, and character design. Visitors will use wooden spoons and a variety of materials to craft their own puppet pals. Whether it’s wild or whimsical, every puppet has a story to tell. Great for school-age kids and curious creators of all kinds.
Join Abby in the Art Studio classroom on Wednesdays to stretch your creativity with common materials used in unexpected ways. Each week will feature a different activity.
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 staff from The City of Madison Planning Division to make a Madison flag button and share your big ideas for the future of Downtown Madison.
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 […]
