Madison Children's Museum

Join Ms. JoJean Retrum, Artistic Director of Dance Wisconsin (embed link https://www.dancewisconsin.org/), for a reading of Plum accompanied by dancers from Dance Wisconsin's upcoming production of the Nutcracker. Plum, by Sean Hayes and Scott Icenogle, is a holiday story of magic and inclusion that introduces some of the Nutcracker story and tells children how the […]

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.

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 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.

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.

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 […]

Termina el año con luz, regalos hechos a mano y recuerdos familiares. Wrap up the year with light, handmade gifts, and warm family memories. Crearemos adornos, cupones de amabilidad y decoraciones de temporada. Make ornaments, kindness coupons, and seasonal decorations in a joyful bilingual space. #FiestaDeLuz #FamilyCreativity #RegalosConAmor

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.

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.

Deck the halls with glitter glue—Adult Swim gets crafty for the holidays! Whether you’re hyper-crafty, holiday-mad, or just here for the beer, this Adult Swim is for you. Join us for an evening packed full of holiday hijinks, festive beverages, gift-making stations, and more! This 21+ event offers adults the chance to play, craft, carouse, […]

Gather inspiration from the natural world and craft a one-of-a-kind ornament using real birch bark from local trees and other foraged materials. Kids can explore textures and shapes while designing something meaningful to hang at home or gift to a loved one. It's hands-on fun that blends art with appreciation for nature's beauty. All materials […]