I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. There is nothing better than a well-planned Children’s Museum. Enter, Kidzu! Kidzu is a wonderful place to let your child explore the science behind concepts like sound and aviation. It’s a place where your child can use their imagination and creativity until the afternoon is late and everyone is tuckered out.
Kidzu Children’s Museum is thrilled to announce that they received a 2023 NC GlaxoSmithKline Ribbon of Hope award, which has made STEAM opportunities and Kidzu’s makerspace, The Makery, available to all. As a part of its award, Kidzu has just launched its new Family First Fridays, which are free admission days scheduled on the first Friday of each month in both the main museum space and Kidzu’s early learning environment, the Nest
On these free days, families can explore all that Kidzu has to offer, including the permanent interactive exhibits, Kidzu’s maker-space The Makery, Book Nook, Forest Theater, and Outdoor Learning Garden. Special programming for Family First Fridays includes a range of themed “STEMonstrations” facilitated by real world scientists, artists, and makers. Extra hands-on activities that align with the monthly theme are also offered.
So far, Kidzu has hosted two Family First Fridays. In July, the STEM theme was the Science of Sound, for which the NC Symphony visited and where children had the opportunity to make their own musical instruments in the Makery. In August, Kidzu explored Amazing Aviation, which featured the Carolina Drone Lab and gave children the opportunity to make various flying creations. Upcoming Family First Friday STEM themes include Wonderful Wildlife, Earth Explorations, and Captivating Chemistry.
In addition to Family First Fridays, the museum offers free STEAM activities year-round. In the Outdoor Learning Garden, families can explore nature and gardening at the weekly Junior Gardeners program and free monthly Garden Parties. Kidzu also participates in free outreach activities at the Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market and for local schools and events.
