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.
programs
We offer a variety of programs designed with infants and toddlers in mind, but all are welcome to attend.
See our calendar for specific dates, locations and program descriptions.
Music Mondays
Mondays, 11:00 am – Noon
Our youngest visitors can engage with music and movement through singing, dancing and playing instruments.
Sensory Play
Tuesdays, 10:00 am – Noon
Children engage with their environment and connect with their emotions through soothing activities and open-ended exploration of sights, scents, textures and sounds.
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.
Storytime
Thursdays, 11:00 am
We foster children’s imagination and early literacy skills through stories and activities that explore themes such as identity, creativity and kindness.
Little Scientists
Fridays, 10:00 am – Noon
Children can observe and ask “what if” questions about the world around them to build curiosity and problem-solving skills.
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.
Check the Calendar of Events for the next session!
Presented by the Slippery Rock University Early Childhood and Elementary Music Community Engagement Initiative.
kindergarten...here I come!
Each year in August, we 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. Learn more here.
museum@home 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.
