Education – School Field Trips
A Little Bit of Magic
October 2012
The Magic House Mice and the Pumpkin Surprise
by Mary Ebers
This heartwarming autumn tale featuring the museum’s favorite group of mice teaches children how even the smallest of creatures can accomplish great things. Pumpkin science activities will follow the story, inviting children to conduct an investigation of the big orange squash.
Theme: Categorizing
November 2012
Train Trip
by Deanna Caswell
A happy little station, a friendly conductor, a jaunty train whistle… The best part of the trip to Grandma’s house might just be the train ride there! There are bridges to cross, instruments to study, and aisles to tromp up and down. An activity riding the rails to explore basic skills will complete the journey for all young passengers on board!
Theme: Transportation
Thanks to a grant from the Union Pacific Foundation, a limited number of qualifying school groups will participate in this program free of charge.
December 2012
The Magic House Mouse
Mrs. Claus tells the touching tale of a group of mice who live in The Magic House and learn about the true spirit of giving. A surprise visit from a very special guest will follow the story.
Theme: Giving
January 2013
No Two Alike
by Keith Baker
Join a pair of curious birds as they explore how everything everywhere is unique—from leaves and trees to forest friends of all shapes and sizes. It’s a sweet, snowy affirmation of how we’re all special. Hands-on matching activities calling on children to use their observing eyes will bring into sight all that is wonderful in winter!
Theme:Matching, Compare and Contrast, Winter
February 2013
Bringing In the New Year
by Grace Lin
This exuberant story follows a Chinese-American family as they prepare to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Lin’s bright and glorious artwork captures the customs and traditions of the holiday with fireworks, banners, lanterns, lions, dumplings and a surprise fold-out dragon! After the story, young partygoers are invited to participate in fun, fine motor and child-friendly chopstick challenges.
Theme: Celebrations in Other Countries
March 2013
Swirl by Swirl
by Joyce Sidman
What makes the tiny snail shell so beautiful? Spirals—bold, beautiful, and mysterious—occurring in nature over and over again—in rushing rivers, in a flower bud, even inside your ear! Can you find one? A discovery of terrific twisting treasures will complete the journey!
Theme:Animals, Nature, Shapes
April 2013
All the Water in the World
by George Ella Lyon
Faucet, well, raincloud, sea … water comes from each of these. But where does water go? Find out… following the story little ones are invited to drop in on activities sure to wet their curiosity and satisfy their thirst for knowledge.
Theme:Water Play
May 2013
Ten Little Caterpillars
by Bill Martin
This dynamic and visually stunning counting-and-natural history picture book follows ten little caterpillars on the move. Come join them… you might even meet a butterfly! An exploration of pretty plants, cute caterpillars and beautiful butterflies all adds up to a super springtime experience for little ones.
Theme: Butterflies, Counting