Opening the Eyes and Minds of Children

The Children's Museum of Richmond

By Carma Haley Shoemaker

The Grandis Gallery offers various exhibits and collections of art created by the children of the Richmond, Va., area. In the "How it Works" area, children are given the opportunity to tinker with tools, equipment and materials that are used when constructing, rebuilding or repairing various objects. Some of the systems that can be explored are clocks, plumbing, electrical systems and solar plates and panels. Children are also encouraged to use creativity and construct their own projects to be viewed and shared by all.

If writing with crayon on the white walls in their home is an indication that a child may have an interest in art, then that child must visit the "Art Studio" at the Children's Museum of Richmond. "Design your own masterpiece" is the only rule here. Whether children want to work alone or in a collaboration project with crayons, clay or paint, their need for a creative outlet can be found at the "Art Studio." With a recycling area, objects that would usually be thrown away are recycled and used in art projects. There is also an area where children can experiment with sun and light patterns. In the "Art Studio," a child is bound only by his or her imagination.

The wonders of the body are revealed at the "Feeling Good Neighborhood." Children are able to walk inside the mouth to see all the surfaces of the teeth and gums while strolling along the tongue. Crawling through the digestive tract of the body is not a good idea ... until now. Learn what the inside of the organs of the human body look and feel like by taking a walk inside. In addition, children are given the opportunity to experiment by creating their own "cooking concoctions." Mixing together common kitchen products and creating their own "kitchen chemistry" is just one more activity that the "Feeling Good Neighborhood" offers.

Want to see more?

• PULL-UPS Top 10 "Cool" Places in Atlanta for Parents and Toddlers
• Economical Family Fun: Inexpensive Ideas for Home and Travel
• Texas Travel for Tykes: Big Adventures for the Littlest Visitors to the Lone Star State
• Whirlwinds of Fun in Chicago: Chicago's Top 10 Family Activities
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!