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EARLY CHILDHOOD

Early Childhood

Firefly Landing — A Fun Way to Learn

Firefly Landing is an early childhood learning space just for the littlest museum visitors! Class sizes are very small, allowing lots of one-on-one time with our early childhood specialists.

Here, families with children ages 6 and younger will experience interactive story time, sensory tables, hands-on activities and more. This space is only open for preregistered programs and select events.

entrance to firefly landing
Welcome to Firefly Landing

ABOUT our PROGRAMS

Thanks to our early childhood programming sponsor!

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preschool journey programs

Toddler Time

Ages 18-36 months
$13/child, 25% discount for members
The program fee includes museum admission for the child; accompanying family members will save 50% on museum admission.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
10-11 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays
9-10 a.m. Saturdays

During this one-hour program our youngest visitors will enjoy circle time, story time, station explorations and movement time in our early childhood space, Firefly Landing. Caregivers will learn alongside their children as they practice skills like problem-solving and social-emotional communication while developing their fine and gross motor skills through play-based, open-ended activities. 

young girl playing with animal toys

Small Wonders

Ages 3-5 years
$13/child, 25% discount for members
The program fee includes museum admission for the child; accompanying family members will save 50% on museum admission.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
10-11 a.m.

During this one-hour program, children and their families can play and learn alongside one another in our early childhood space, Firefly Landing. Little ones will build a sense of wonder as they engage in storytelling, hands-on STEAM projects, and sensory exploration related to the monthly theme. 

a young boy painting in firefly landing

Young Explorers

Ages 4-6 years
$14/child, 25% discount for members
The program fee includes museum admission for the child; accompanying family members will save 50% on museum admission.
$5/Access Pass members
This class is for children to attend on their own, parents do not accompany child or participate in the program.
1-2:30 p.m.

Be a big kid and join us for this 90-minute drop-off class that encourages independence, creativity and exploration in an environment that fosters curiosity and imagination. Children will explore the museum and engage in hands-on science and art focused projects.

early childhood outreach programs

Messy Mondays

Ages 2-5 years
$12/child, 25% discount for members
The program fee includes museum admission for the child; accompanying family members will save 50% on museum admission.
$5/Access Pass members
10-11 a.m.

Join us for this 1-hour program where you and your little one can experiment and make messes! We will explore art, science and sensory exploration through hands-on, messy projects that allow your child to explore at their own pace. This program also features an interactive story time to inspire your exploration through the play-based activities.

a group playing in firefly landing

Stay and Play

Ages 18 months-6 years
$12/child; 25% discount for members
The program fee includes museum admission for the child; accompanying family members will save 50% on museum admission.
$5/Access Pass members

10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Join us for open play and family learning in our early childhood space, Firefly Landing, where young children and their families try new sensory experiences, experiment with STEM activities, and even make some music. Each monthly session is 90minutes long, leaving plenty of time for the little ones to explore at their own pace, while caregivers make connections as well. Each month will feature new activities and caregiver resources, so there will always be more to explore. 

SEE WHAT OUR FAMILIES HAVE TO SAY

“Our experience today was fabulous! The play areas were well organized and there was lots of variety. Your staff was VERY welcoming and interacted with kiddos. We will be back!”

Kelli H.
staff reading a book to a young child
Early Childhood Storytime + Activity: "Rosie Revere, Engineer"

Firefly Landing at Home

We’re bringing our story time and early childhood activities to you to enjoy in your own home. Settle in and watch our video playlist.

early childhood field trips

Are you an early childhood educator?

Browse the various resources we have available for early childhood educators.

SEE WHAT OUR FAMILIES HAVE TO SAY

“The kids had a great time at the nature play event yesterday. I appreciate the extra time and effort you and the staff took to hold the event outdoors and spaced out so everyone could enjoy the activities. It was well-planned and executed. We really enjoy the programs at the museum and it was great to be back!”

VALERIE W.
mom playing with child at firefly landing

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Kids interacting with Naturalist Lab specialist at the Indiana State Museum