BIG DISCOVERIES for LITTLE EXPLORERS

Programs and spaces designed just for ages 6 and younger

At the Indiana State Museum, even the smallest visitors can engage with big ideas. Our early childhood experiences are thoughtfully crafted to spark imagination, encourage hands-on learning, and support growing minds.

From sensory play zones to guided programs led by trained educators, every activity is rooted in early learning best practices and tailored for curious kids and their caregivers.

Whether building with blocks, exploring textures, or diving into music and movement, there’s always something new to try.

To schedule early childhood programs, contact Early Childhood Program Manager Dru Corliss at 317.264.9867 or [email protected].

firefly landing toddler journey programs

Toddler Journey School Programs

Introduce your toddlers to the magic of the museum with a tailored experience that blends play with learning. Toddler classrooms (8+ children) will enjoy one hour of fine and gross motor activities in Firefly Landing, followed by a museum exploration that brings art, science and sensory activities to life.

Price
$6/student & chaperone (free for teachers & assistants). One adult per five students.

Preschool Journey School Programs

This two-hour experience combines STEAM-based activities in Firefly Landing with exhibit exploration throughout the museum. Young learners will dive into a world of creativity, science and history through hands-on, interactive learning.

Price
Cost: $6/student & chaperone (free for teachers & assistants). One adult per five students.

Early Childhood Field Trip

Explore the museum at your own pace! With a self-guided field trip, you and your toddler, preschool and PreK classrooms of 10 or more can explore the galleries independently while taking in the art science and history of Indiana.

Price
$6/student & chaperone (free for teachers). One adult per five students.

Toddler and Preschool Outreach Programs

Can’t make it to the museum? We’ll bring the museum to you! Our outreach programs offer interactive storytimes and hands-on STEAM activities that can be customized to match the themes of our in-museum programs.

Price
$150/program (additional programs $100 for same day).
Travel Fees
– 30-60 miles: $20 – 60-90 miles: $40 – 90+ miles: $60
Deposit
$50 non-refundable deposit required at booking. Deposit will go toward the total program fee.

EXPLORE OUR featured EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

Thank you to our early childhood programs sponsor PNC / Growing Up Great.

Artfully Me

Students will explore artwork by Indiana artists and create their own masterpieces. Through interactive story time, hands-on STEAM, and SEL-based projects, they'll discover abstract art and learn to express their emotions.
Astronaut Adventure

Inspired by Hoosier astronauts, students will learn about space travel and the lives of astronauts. This STEAM-focused program includes space-inspired art and hands-on experiments to explore the wonders of space.
Engineering Extravaganza

In this program, students become engineers. They will use the engineering design process to create, test and collaborate on a hands-on STEAM project inspired by real inventions and interactive spaces.
Ice Age Animals

Step back to the Ice Age in the Frozen Reign gallery where students explore the creatures of the past. Through story time and STEAM-based projects, they'll learn about Indiana’s history during the Ice Age.
Nature Explorers

Young paleontologists, archaeologists and biologists will explore real artifacts in the R.B. Annis Naturalist’s Lab, using a digital microscope. They'll engage in hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of nature.