• STEM Sparks: Terrain Trackers

    Uncover the hidden landscapes waiting right beneath your fingertips! Using a specialized colorful probe, young explorers will dive into mystery boxes to measure concealed terrain they can't see. By recording depth colors from point to point, kids will assemble their very own three-dimensional topographic map. Join us to transform simple observations into an exciting journey […]

  • Early Explorers Playgroup

    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 […]

  • Imagination Station

    Join Abby in the every other Friday morning to stretch your creativity with common materials used in unexpected ways. Each program will feature a different activity.

  • Music with Junebug

    Join us for Music with Junebug led by Junko Yamauchi. This program gives toddlers and preschoolers the opportunity to sing, dance, explore instruments, and play! Music and movement activities promote brain development and connect us to our family and community. This event is free with general museum admission.

  • STEAM Time: Chlorophyll Prints

    Gain a better understanding of chlorophyll and how it works in plants. Make a chlorophyll print from leaves and flowers in the rooftop gardens.

  • Clay Day

    Squish it, shape it, roll it, and build with it! Each week, Laurie and museum staff lead a new hands-on project featuring air-dry, polymer, or ceramic clay. Learn techniques for shaping and decorating while giving yourself plenty of room to experiment. Whether you're making something practical, playful, or completely unexpected, Clay Day is a chance […]

  • Saturday Art Adventures: Mini Paintings

    Spend your Saturday making something unexpected! School-age kids and older visitors can explore a changing mix of art materials, techniques, and creative challenges. Experiment with new ways to make art, solve problems as your ideas develop, and find inspiration alongside other artists. There’s no single right answer—just plenty of room to imagine, explore, and create.

  • Stories Across Generations

    Settle in for a special storytime that brings generations together. Eleanor Dougherty shares beloved picture books with young listeners in a warm, welcoming setting. This gentle program invites children ages 0–8 and their caregivers to connect through stories, imagination, and the simple joy of reading together.

  • Let’s Move! with Abby

    Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dance parties, 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 […]

  • Music Time with Tim

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

  • Li’l Music with Junko

    Do you have a dancing baby? Discover Junko's weekly music session where babies and toddlers can explore their natural love of rhythm. Together, you and your tiny dancer will bounce, sway, and rock with the music while learning simple rhythm patterns. They'll build critical social skills over the weeks as they interact with new faces […]

  • Tales with Teresa

    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.

  • Let’s Move! with Abby

    Join us for movement games and activities! From obstacle courses to dance parties, 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 […]

  • Reading on the Rooftop

    Take storytime to new heights! Join Paula Panczenko on the museum rooftop for a cozy read-aloud surrounded by fresh air, gardens, and views of our Capitol and the lake. Settle in, listen to engaging picture books, and enjoy stories together in one of MCM’s most unique spaces. Bring your imagination and discover where a good […]

  • Messy Art with Laurie

    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.