young learners are our priority
We provide fun, dynamic experiences for our youngest learners and their parents and caregivers that inspire kindness, joy, creativity and curiosity
the nursery
Light, texture and movement help develop fine and large motor skills in this exhibit. Ride a bubble seesaw, comb and shape colored sand, insert pegs in a light wall, build wooden trains and enjoy tummy time with a variety of tactile toys. Includes a parent resource area and a quiet area for nursing.
sensory play
Tuesdays, 11:00 – 11:45 am
Children can practice fine and gross motor skills while supporting cognitive growth through soothing activities and exploration of sights, textures, sounds and tools in a different exhibit space each week. While this program is designed with early learners in mind, all ages are welcome.
Check the Calendar of Events for location and schedule variations
We also offer Sensory Friendly Afternoons on the second Tuesday of each month where visitors with sensory sensitivities can have a fun, friendly experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. Check the Calendar of Events for dates.
little gardeners
Wednesdays, 11:00 – 11:45 am
Visit our outdoor garden, where children can learn about plants and garden care through sensory play and motor skill development. This free program does not require Museum admission. Weather permitting.
Check our Calendar of Events for the schedule.
storytime
Thursdays, 11:00 – 11:45 am
Children can join story time sessions followed by art and making activities to explore identity, creativity, and kindness in a new exhibit area each month.
Check the Calendar of Events for location and schedule variations
sing, move, play
Monthly
Join students and faculty from Slippery Rock University’s Music Department for this drop-in music experience that takes your early learner on a journey rich in song, movement, sound exploration and musical play!
Stop by for a few minutes or stay for the full session. This program is designed with early learners in mind, but all are welcome to attend. Included with Museum admission.
Presented by the Slippery Rock University Early Childhood and Elementary Music Community Engagement Initiative.
Kindergarten...Here I Come!
Celebrate the start of a young child’s formal educational journey- Kindergarten – with special activities and resources to ready children, parents and caregivers for this big milestone.
Saturday, August 12, 2023
9:00 am – Noon
[email protected] activities for early learners
We offer a collection of activities you can do at home with your youngest learners.
early learning @ home
Our Early Childhood team has created activity sheets for our youngest learners and their caregivers to explore. Each month, we’ll share themed activities focused on Art + Making, Wellness, and Outdoor Exploration. Click on the month to download the activity sheet.
art exploration
These activities foster observation, creativity and a curiosity for art.
wellness and mindfulness practice
Through this activity, you and your young child can think up and pass along messages of joy and love through a personal message delivered to a loved one or left in the neighborhood for others to find.
nature and environmental learning
Explore the outdoors a little more closely by making a pair of binoculars with your little one. Or broaden your child’s perspective about the world and the food we eat as you write a letter to a local farmer.
