Summer Camps at the CMT!

Adorable artwork left behind in Becka's Studio.

The idea of messy, sticky, ooey-gooey art can be daunting to some parents.  The thought of paint or glue everywhere, let alone something more challenging such as fine glitter or pudding finger paints, is more than some want to take on.  I will say that as a parent of two children myself, there were days I was not sure I wanted to dive into such artistic endeavors.  There are great ways to have these experiences though, and I want to be sure that those of you that may steer clear, have an understanding as to why these types of experiences are so vital to a young child.  More importantly, there are great ways to make this type of art work in your home or outdoors. Read more →

Just days ago, this painting was found in Becka's Studio.  Immediately we were drawn to the artist's rich color choices and fluid brushstrokes and yet we all had different interpretations of the painting.  One person saw a cow.  Another saw a boy on a skateboard. 

Now it's your turn to enjoy the painting.  What do you see?

 

Young children who watch a lot of TV aren't just missing out on more stimulating activities. They may also be destined for problems at school and unhealthier habits later in life, new research suggests.

Each additional hour of TV that toddlers watch per week translates into poorer classroom behavior, lower math scores, less physical activity, and more snacking at age 10, according to a new study in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.

Read the full article at CNN.com.

For any parent who has considered or planned a birthday party for their young child, this message is for you!  I am not only a CMT employee but also a mother of two and I have planned, prepared and paid for my share of parties.  Parties are a great experience and full of fun, but can also feel a bit hectic. Sometimes parents can't even enjoy their little one's special day.  So here is my idea.... book a party at the Children's Museum of Tacoma and leave all the hectic pieces to us!  We will help to make your experience joyful and easy, but most importantly positively playful! 
Click on this link for a special coupon to add a free activity to your child's party!
Hurry and book now as this offer is available for a limited time.

We found a new home for the Children's Museum of Tacoma!  Wow, this has been years in the making.  Just last week, I celebrated 11 years working at the Children's Museum of Tacoma. The majority of that time, we have been looking for a larger place to play.  What an exciting opportunity to move forward with museum dreams a decade in the making.

 

Read more →

Buildings and structures of every size and shape can be seen all around us.  In our newest exhibit, Design, Build, Play! children assume the role of architect to create structures of their very own.

A recent visitor shared this floor plan of his / her dream house, complete with a: comfy couch, television, light, fan, toilet, and bathroom door.  I especially enjoy the labels as bathroom privacy is especially important when designing a home.  :)

 

One of many found creations in Becka's Studio.

As we move into our 17th month of Play to Learn....(Wow! 17 months have flown by I must say)  we are discovering and experiencing that our programs draw quite a crowd at times.  When I look back at the beginning, I remember days when we had 20 or less and I thought that was incredible.  Now we see groups as large as 90 at some of our locations... it's mind boggling to think of offering a circle time for 90 adults and children.  It is such great fun!  I consistently welcome the challenge, joy, and am so excited to see the learning that takes place in such a crowd even when it may look or seem impossible. 
Read more →