The Building for Kids Children's Museum

Celebrate Leap Day at the Museum on Wednesday, February 29 from 9am - 8pm

2012-02-28T08:16:00.003-06:00

We are celebrating Leap Day at the museum with special "frog" activities, extended hours and a special offer: The Leap Year Punch Card for only $29 good for 8 admissions (value $58.00). We will be open from 9am - 8pm on Wednesday, February 29th!

Leap Day Activities in DaVinci Art & Science Studio

9:30-11:30 Frog Puppets: Leap into the Leap Year and make a frog puppet.

12:00-2:30 Life Cycle of a Frog: Explore the life cycle of frogs with this hands-on activity.

3:00-5:00 Design a Frog: Discover different species of frogs & design your own to take home.

5:30-7:30 Leap Frog: Learn leaps and bounds about how frogs hop!

We are excited to be part of Appleton Downtown Inc. Leap Local event planned for Wednesday, February 29th. Visit downtown merchants for special savings and fun.

SPECIAL OFFER! Only on Wednesday, stop in to our Welcome Center and purchase a Leap Year Punch card for only $29 good for 8 admissions to the Museum! (a $29 SAVINGS! valid thru 2/1/13).

View our Photos from Delta Dental Miles of Smiles Day 2012

2012-02-19T22:13:00.001-06:00

Delta Dental Miles of Smile Day 2012

Over 1500 people enjoyed a FREE day at the museum sponsored by Delta Dental. Miles of Smiles is a special day at the museum when the community enjoys learning about oral health and body wellness.

Kids enjoyed creating tooth fairy wings, learning about healthy teeth and participating in hands-on activities through out the museum.

We want to thank all of the dental groups who participated in the event and a big thank you to Delta Dental for sponsoring this wonderful day!

Celebrate President's Day at the Museum

2012-02-19T21:28:00.002-06:00

The Building for Kids Children's Museum will be open on Monday, February 20th from 9am to 5pm to celebrate President's Day. Spend your day at the museum and enjoy the special activities in the DaVinci Art and Science Studio.

President’s Day Activities in DaVinci Studio

9:30-11:30 How Many Drops of Water Can a Penny Hold?

12:00-2:30 How Do You Measure Up?: How tall are you compared to our founding fore fathers? Each child will make a life sized drawing of himself or herself.

3:00-5:00 Stovepipe Hats: Make a hat like Abraham Lincoln’s!

Don't Miss Clifford Story and Craft Time: February 14-18

2012-02-06T10:40:00.001-06:00

Clifford is coming to the museum! Our Storybook Star will join us daily at 10:30 am Tuesday - Saturday, February 14-18 and also will be making a special appearance on Valentines Day, Tuesday, February 14th at 4:00 pm.

We would like to thank Menasha Corporation Foundation for sponsoring our Storybook Stars series. We appreciate their commitment to educational programming at the Building for Kids Children's Museum.

Click ont he image to view flyer. Our Clifford Storybook Star Story and Craft Time for Preschoolers is a FREE program and is included with museum admission or membership.

DaVinci Studio Calendar for week of February 7th

2012-02-06T10:30:00.001-06:00

Every day in our DaVinci Art and Science Studio we offer hands-on learning and fun for kids. Click the image below to view all of the fun art and science projects we will be offering the week of February 7 - 11, 2012. DaVinci activities are included with your museum admission or membership.

Schedule of events in our DaVinci Art & Science Studio from Tuesday, February 7 to Saturday, February 11.

Spanish Preschool Classes offered at the Children's Museum

2012-01-31T08:27:00.000-06:00

Is your preschooler ready to explore Spanish? Sign up for a Little Learners Spanish class featuring Spanish finger plays, basic Spanish words, art projects and a snack.

Each session last for 3 weeks and begins at 10:30am on either Tuesday or Thursday during the months of February - May. Classes are limited to 10 children. Each session costs $20 per child for museum members, $30 for non-museum members. Additional siblings can also attend for $12 per child.

The entry fee includes admission to the museum on the day of the class, all instruction materials, registration fees and snacks.

Our Little Learners Classes are taught by Rosie Hoeffner, Lead Educator.

Rosie Hoeffner, Lead Educator, The Building for Kids Children's Museum

To register, please call the museum at 920-734-3226 or stop in and register at our Welcome Center.

The Berenstain Bears Visiting the Children's Museum This Week.

2012-01-24T09:44:00.000-06:00

Don't miss our Storybook Stars Story and Craft Time with the Berenstain Bears this week. Preschoolers will hear a story, make a craft and meet a Berenstain Bear. Free with admission or membership.
Thank you to Menasha Corporation Foundation for sponsoring the Storybook Stars Program at the museum.

Tuesday - Friday, January 24-27, 10:30 am

2 For 1 Admission and Special Events Planned to Celebrate Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 16.

2012-01-15T15:05:00.000-06:00

Join us for a special day on Monday, January 16 from 9am to 5pm to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Donate a pair of new or gently used shoes and receive

2 for 1 ADMISSION on Monday, January 16.

The shoes will be donated to Goodwill NCW.

DaVinci Art & Science Studio Schedule of Events

9:30-11:30-Martin & Me

Learn about the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. and discover what you have in common with this civil rights leader. We will read Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport at 10:00 am and 11:00 am.

12:00-2:30 Color Knows No Boundaries

Explore the science of color! Children will apply principles of chromatography to blend colors in harmony.

3:00-5:00 Freedom Hands

Celebrate the diversity of people around the world! Create, decorate and join together tracings of your hand.

Learning Centers:

I Have a Dream: Write or draw a picture of your dream to share just like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

African Arts: Learn about and create traditional African art forms. You can weave paper kente cloths, create traditional beads and decorate dogon masks.

There will also be a Freedom Bus Mural where children and their special adults can leave their portrait.

Children's Museum Special Hours

2012-01-06T08:06:00.002-06:00

Mark your calendars! The museum will be open 2 upcoming Monday's to celebrate both Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and President's Day.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Monday, January 16, 9am-5pm
President's Day: Monday, February 20, 9am-5pm

Special Offer! 2012 Family Membership Only $99

2011-12-19T16:29:00.001-06:00

Enjoy a year long of family fun. Membership benefits apply to 2 adults and all children younger than 18 years old in their household. This special 2012 Family Membership is valid the date of purchase thru December 31, 2012.

Have you visited our new traveling exhibit, Super Kids Save the World?

Still searching for the perfect gift? Gift a 2012 Family Membership and wrap up a year's worth of brain-boosting, imagination-building experiences into one simple package when you give a membership to The Building for Kids Children's Museum.

To take advantage of this special offer, purchase the Family Membership by 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 22. To purchase, visit our Welcome Center or call 920.734.3226.

*Offer not valid on previous purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Take Advantage of Special Holiday Hours at The Building for Kids Children's Museum

2011-12-18T13:16:00.003-06:00

SPECIAL HOLIDAY HOURS

Kids love Super Kids Save the Word, our current traveling exhibit.

Noodle Around The World on New Year's Eve at The Building for Kids Children's Museum

2011-12-18T13:05:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 31

Noon - 5:00 p.m.

Winter Wonderland Activities in DaVinci This Week

2011-12-12T21:29:00.001-06:00

Winter Wonderland has taken over DaVinci! Candy Cane Ornaments, Pinatas, Polar Bear Crafts, Holiday Votive Candle Holders, Ice Cube Painting, Winter Wonderland Collages, Holiday Slime, Handmade Ornaments and Packer Tie-Dye T-shirts are featured this week in DaVinci.

DaVinci Art and Science Studio

All activities are included with your admission ( a $5 charge to purchase a t-shirt for Packer Tie-Dye).

The Grinch is Coming to the Children's Museum!

2011-12-12T20:44:00.002-06:00

Our Storybook Star, The Grinch, will be at the museum this week from Tuesday, December 13th thru Friday, December 16th at 10:30 am to read Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas with us!

Join us for a morning of storytelling with our Storybook Star in the Mielke Family Theatre! We will begin the story at 10:30 am and after the story, we will make jing-tinglers just like the Who's in Whoville. There will be time for children to meet the Grinch and take photographs! Parents, don’t forget your camera!

Have your picture taken with the Grinch! Don't forget your cameras.

Preschoolers and parents/caregivers are welcome to join the fun.
No advance registration required.
FREE for museum members and included with museum admission.

Winter Wonderland is Here!

2011-12-12T19:53:00.001-06:00

Special craft classes, holiday programming, festive decor and a few secret surprises will abound at the museum November 19 – January 15. If your kids love polar bears, penguins, igloos and snowflakes, you don't want to miss Winter Wonderland! The DaVinci Art and Science Studio is overflowing with beautiful ornaments, snowflakes and art created by visitors. Winter Wonderland hands-on activities are happening every day. Here is a sneak peak at the festive decor happening at the museum.

Welcome to Winter Wonderland!

Holiday handmade activities in DaVinci daily!

Polar Bears welcome you to Winter Wonderland.

Do you know where this igloo and penguin are hiding in the museum?

Don't miss the Penguin Tree in DaVinci.

The Goodwill Holiday Tree in DaVinci is decorated with handmade ornaments created by kids!

Take a family photo in front of the Winter Wonderland photo op on the First Floor.

DaVinci Learning Centers for Tuesday - Sunday, December 12-18

2011-12-12T18:43:00.001-06:00

DaVinci Learning Centers are available through out the day in the
DaVinci Art and Science Studio on the 2nd floor.

Science:

· Learnabout igloos and build your own snow hut, or igloo, out of marshmallows orwhite packing material.

· Areyou taller or shorter than an Emperor Penguin? Read Emperor Penguin facts and standnext to our ruler and find out!

· Doyou weigh more than an Emperor Penguin? Step on the scale and see for yourself!

· Makepolar bear and penguin tracks in the snow.

· Havefun playing a recycling matching game.

· Experimentwith the power of magnets on the museum’s magnet table.

· Usea magnifying glass to take an up-close look at several different types of rocksand crystals.

· Useyour imagination to build with over a thousand LEGO blocks.

Get creative in the DaVinci Art and Science Studio

Art:

· GoodwillHoliday Tree: Create ornaments out of reusable items donated by Goodwill tohang on the festive holiday tree in the DaVinci Studio.

· Winter Wonderland coloring pages

· Learnabout the importance of giving this holiday season by completing Goodwillactivity sheets and taking home a Goodwill donation bag.

· Createan adorable reindeer holiday ornament/ decoration.

· Makeholiday place cards for your next holiday dinner celebration.

The Polar Bears of the Building for Kids

2011-12-09T00:20:00.000-06:00

Thank you Holly Stigen for capturing our Polar Bears and sharing them on your blog.

Holly Stigen Art Photography: The Polar Bears of the Building for Kids: The Building for Kids in Appleton,WI does the most adorable window displays with polar bears. The one above is from this year, the ones ...

Happenings in DaVinci Art & Science Studio: November 8 - 12

2011-11-08T07:31:00.000-06:00

Your kids can always find something hands-on and educational happening in DaVinci. Check out this weeks calendar of events:

DaVinciLearning Centers

Tuesday,Nov. 8^th – Saturday, Nov. 12^th

CommunicationArts:

· Get messy!Children can use their fingers to write letters of the alphabet in shavingcream.

· Elementaryaged visitors can enhance their handwriting skills with Thanksgiving themedprint and cursive practice sheets.

Science:

· Recycle oldmaterials by building and decorating a paper airplane out of newspaper ormagazine pages.

Art:

· Read“George Saves the World by Lunchtime” and create your own superhero cape byreusing a brown bag from the grocery store.

· Childrencan use their imagination to create an airplane by reusing items from aroundthe house: a clothespin and popsicle sticks.

Gulfstream FREE Day at the Museum, Sunday, Nov 6

2011-11-05T09:52:00.003-05:00

Don't miss FREE admission to the museum tomorrow, Sunday, November 6 from noon - 5pm. Let your imagination, curiosity, and confidence soar at Gulfstream Aerospace Free Day. Explore the art and science of Gulfstream jet aircrafts through hands-on activities, programs and conversations with Gulfstream engineers.

November Spanish Preschool Classes: Sign Up Today

2011-10-27T19:31:00.000-05:00

These classes are designed with pre-schoolers in mind. Each 50-minute themed class includes:

Spanish finger plays
basic Spanish words
art projects
a snack

Ages 2-1/2to Pre-K. Each child musthave a grown up in attendance during the class.

Each monthly 3 week session is$20.00 per child for BFKCM members and $30 per child for non-members. Themonthly 3 week session fee includes admission to the museum on the day of theclass, class registration for 1 child and 1 adult, all instruction materials,and snacks. Tag-along siblings are welcome to join for an additional $12. Classes limited to 10 students.

Questions regarding the classes? Contact Rosie Hoeffner, Museum Educator, at 920.734.3226 or education@tds.net.

Choose Tuesday or Thursday Spanish Class Sessions - 10:00am - 10:50am

November

It’s Harvest Time Es tiempo de la Cosecha

Pumpkins, Vegetables and ColorfulTrees

Tuesdays: Nov. 1, 8, 15

Thursdays: Nov. 3, 10, 17

December

Welcome Winter Bienvenida al Invierno

Snow, Holidays, and Piñatas

Tuesdays: Dec. 6, 13, 20

Thursdays: Dec. 8, 15, 22

January

Happy New Year Feliz Año

Fiesta , Icicles and Hot Chocolate

Tuesdays: Jan. 3, 10, 17

Thursdays: Jan. 5, 12, 19

To register, please contact TheBuilding For Kids Children’s Museum at (920) 734-3226 to register with Visa,MC, or Discover or check. Classes limited to 10 students.

Payment must be received at thetime of registration. Space willnot be reserved until payment is received. Class fees are non-refundable. Classes fill quickly.

News Release: Gulfstream Sponsors Free Museum Day November 6

2011-10-27T19:26:00.001-05:00

Visitors GetFree Admission to The Building For Kids Children’s Museum

Admissionto Appleton’s The Building For Kids Children’s Museum will be free of charge onSunday, Nov. 6, thanks to a donation from Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.

Duringthe museum’s regular Sunday business hours of noon to 5 p.m., Gulfstreamemployees will help children explore the science and art of jet aircraftthrough hands-on activities. Gulfstream, a designer and manufacturer ofbusiness jets headquartered in Savannah, Ga., operates a completions center andproduct support center at the Outagamie County Regional Airport.

TheGulfstream-sponsored event will provide the community with an opportunity to viewthe museum’s many exhibits, including Super Kids Save the World!,a traveling displayfocused on the four R’s – reduce, recycle, repair andreuse.

Gulfstream, a long-time supporter of themuseum, donated an aircraft and other equipment for one of the museum’shands-on exhibits.

The non-profit Building for Kids Children’sMuseum opened in downtown Appleton in1992. With nearly 130,000 visitors annually, the museum’s mission is “to build children’s imagination, creativity and confidence.”It is supported solely by donations, memberships and admission fees. The museumis open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; onThursdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum isclosed Mondays. For more information on The Building For Kids Children’s Museum,please visit www.buildingforkids.org or call 920-734-3226.

Formore information, please contact Dana Thorpe at (920) 734-3226.

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Don't Miss Boo Bash, FREE Halloween Celebration Friday, Oct 28

2011-10-27T19:17:00.002-05:00

Batman Needs Your Vote Today! Help Us Win a $25,000 Endowment.

2011-10-18T11:16:00.000-05:00

Batman wants to know "Can you spare 1 minute per day for the next 8 days to help the Building for Kids Children's Museum to win a $25,000 endowment?"

Click here to vote

Batman wants you to be a Super Hero too. 8 minutes of your time = a $25,000 endowment for the Building for Kids Children’s Museum "to build children's imagination, creativity and confidence".

The Community Foundation is celebrating its 25th Anniversary with a 25 for 25 Charity Challenge. Please vote for the museum to receive one of five $25,000 endowment gifts. All voting is done online and we need you, your family and friends to vote every day now thru Tuesday, October 25th.

Thank you for your support!

Vote To Help Us Win a $25,000 Endowment

2011-10-17T17:03:00.003-05:00

Be a Super Hero for Kids!

1 click. 1 vote. 1 minute per day for the next 9 days.

Click here to vote

9 minutes of your time = a $25,000 endowment for the Building for Kids Children’s Museum
"to build children's imagination, creativity and confidence". Be a Super Hero for Kids by voting now.

The Community Foundation is celebrating its 25th Anniversary with a 25 for 25 Charity Challenge. Please vote for the museum to receive one of five $25,000 endowment gifts. All voting is done online and we need you, your family and friends to vote every day now thru Tuesday, October 25th.

The $25,000 endowment will be used to bring quality exhibits to the Fox Valley area

and enhance the exhibits at the museum.

Click here to vote now

Please ask your friends and family to vote and be Super Heroes too!

The Building for Kids, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization supported by donations, memberships, and admissions. The museum does not receive local, state, or federal funding. Nearly 130,000 visitors enjoy the museum each year.

Members Rule in October at The Building for Kids Children's Museum!

2011-10-04T09:22:00.001-05:00

30% off Museum Store (regularly 10%off)

October 1 – 30, 2011

Members Giveaway

On October 31, members will be entered to win thefollowing prizes!

· A FREE Basic Birthday party ($115 value)

· A Gift card forthe Museum Store ($5 value)

· A Spanish Preschool Class – Little Learners Program ($20 value)

3-50 minute sessions for kids ages 2 1/2 to pre-K.Choose from

o November – It’s Harvest Time

o December – Welcome Winter

o January – Happy New Year

Every Tuesday In October: MembersBring a Guest for only $1

Limit 4 guests per visit

October 4, 11, 18, 25

Not a member? Click here to learn more and join.

STEMfest Coming to the Museum Saturday, October 8th. FREE Event for Families.

2011-10-04T08:43:00.002-05:00

STEMfest

Saturday, October 8, 2011

9 am - 3pm

STEM = Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

On Saturday, October 8 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. , The Building for Kids Children's Museum will host Time Warner Cable's STEMfest in partnership with Fox Valley FOCUS, an initiative of the Fox Valley Chamber.

Kids of all ages can participate in dozens of hands-on activities including the FABLAB from Fox Valley Technical College, the Barlow Planetarium, Oshkosh Wave Robotics. This FREE admission day to the event and the museum is brought to you by Time Warner Cable's community outreach initiative Connect a Million Minds (CAMM). CAMM focuses on engaging youth in fun STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities. The CAMM website serves as a resource in local STEM activities.

Mark your calendars and join us for family fun on Saturday, October 8!

October is Member Appreciation Month at The Building for Kids Children's Museum

2011-09-27T20:27:00.000-05:00

Museum Members ReceiveDiscounts, Prizes

and More During October.

Invitation to FREE Members Only Event

Exhibition Opening of Super Kids Savethe World!

Friday, September 30, 6-8pm

Celebrate the exhibit’s opening with entertainment,interactive activities, refreshments and Super Hero guest appearances.

Advance reservation required by Wed, Sept 27 at5pm.

30% off Museum Store (regularly 10%off)

October 1 – 30, 2011

Members Giveaway

On October 31, members will be entered to win thefollowing prizes!

· A FREE Basic Birthday party ($115 value)

· A Gift card forthe Museum Store ($5 value)

· A Spanish Preschool Class – Little Learners Program ($20 value)

3-50 minute sessions for kids ages 2 1/2 to pre-K.Choose from

o November – It’s Harvest Time

o December – Welcome Winter

o January – Happy New Year

Every Tuesday In October: MembersBring a Guest for only $1

Limit 4 guests per visit

October 4, 11, 18, 25

Children's Museum Offers Spanish Preschool Classes

2011-09-27T20:10:00.000-05:00

Introducing Spanish classes at The BuildingFor Kids Children’s Museum! These classes are designed with pre-schoolers in mind. Each 50-minute themed class includes:

Spanish finger plays
basic Spanish words
art projects
a snack

Ages 2-1/2to Pre-K. Each child musthave a grown up in attendance during the class.

Questions regarding the classes? Contact Rosie Hoeffner, Museum Educator, at 920.734.3226 or education@tds.net.

Choose Tuesday or Thursday Spanish Class Sessions - 10:00am - 10:50am

October

Celebrate Fall (Autumn) Celebrando el Otoño

Apples, Leaves, and FallAnimals

Tuesdays: Oct. 4, 11, 18

Thursdays: Oct. 6, 13, 20

November

It’s Harvest Time Es tiempo de la Cosecha

Pumpkins, Vegetables and ColorfulTrees

Tuesdays: Nov. 1, 8, 15

Thursdays: Nov. 3, 10, 17

December

Welcome Winter Bienvenida al Invierno

Snow, Holidays, and Piñatas

Tuesdays: Dec. 6, 13, 20

Thursdays: Dec. 8, 15, 22

January

Happy New Year Feliz Año

Fiesta , Icicles and Hot Chocolate

Tuesdays: Jan. 3, 10, 17

Thursdays: Jan. 5, 12, 19

To register, please contact TheBuilding For Kids Children’s Museum at (920) 734-3226 to register with Visa,MC, or Discover or check. Classes limited to 10 students.

Payment must be received at thetime of registration. Space willnot be reserved until payment is received. Class fees are non-refundable. Classes fill quickly.

New Exhibit Coming to the Building for Kids October 1st

2011-09-23T12:30:00.003-05:00

A few simplechanges may have an amazing impact – that’s the idea behind a new exhibitcoming to The Building for Kids children’s museum.

Super Kids Save the World! will be at the museum from Oct. 1through March 26. The exhibit provides children (and their families) withplenty of information on how to be more “green.”

The exhibit,which is based on the British children’s book “George Saves the World byLunchtime” by Jo Readman and illustrated by Ley Honor Roberts, is designed with“green” materials, said Dana Thorpe, executive director of The Building forKids.

“Super Kids Save the World provideschildren with super hero training in the four R’s – reduce, reuse, repair andrecycle,” she said. “Children will have plenty of hands-on opportunities tolearn what they can do to make the world a greener place. Kids will learn thatsimple decisions – like recycling an aluminum can – can make a realdifference.”

The exhibitallows children and adults to travel along with George – they can even don acape and boots – and become an energy-saving super hero. Children will get to

ride a bike instead of taking a car
visit a farmer’s market
dress up at the Goodwill Donation Center
make science discoveriesabout alternative energy sources in the research lab
decorate get wellcards using leftover wrapping papers and other reusable supplies

“The book andthe exhibit demonstrate how one ordinary family can become eco-friendly superheroes just by making simple, responsible choices,” Thorpe said.

The travelingexhibit is coming from The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum, where itwas created in partnership with the Crawford Taylor Foundation and EnterpriseRent-A-Car.

Local exhibit sponsors to date include Goodwill of North Central Wisconsin and The Post Crescent Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, Octoberfest and Appleton Downtown Inc. Super Kids Save the World is included with regular museumadmission.

The museum is open Tuesdays,Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; on Thursdays from 9a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays.For more information on The Building for Kids Children’s Museum, please visit www.buildingforkids.org or call 920-734-3226.

Preschool and K-4 Field Trip Guides Available Online

2011-09-13T12:18:00.001-05:00

The Building for Kids Children's Museum offers field trips to students from Preschool to Grade 4, and we have many classes you can add to enrich the experience. Find out all you need to know by visiting our website and downloading the Guides below.

TEACHERS! Want to preview the Museum first? Receive FREE admission during regular business hours for one education professional with current ID.

Educators Open House at The Building for Kids Children's Museum

2011-09-13T11:40:00.003-05:00

Pre-School and K-4 Educators...

Please Join Us at our Educator's Open House!

Monday, September 26, 2011

4:00 - 6:00 pm

Discover what the museum has to offer you and your students at this private event just for you. Our Museum Educators will be showcasing our Discovery Classes and a Premium Class in the Mielke Theater. Visit stations throughout the museum to experiment the hands on activity associated with each class. Explore the museum, enjoy refreshments and enter to win a 1-year family membership and a free field trip for your class.

Museum Educators:
Kristen Trimberger - Master of Education in Teaching & Learning
Mary Gay Hornseth - Retired Teacher
Gwen Schmidt - Retired Teacher
Sheila Stojack - Retired Teacher
Rosie Hoeffner - Early Childhood Specialist

Museum Specialists:
Kristi Helmkamp - M.A. Art History
Beth Servais - B.A. in Gallery/Museum Practices

To register for this FREE event, contact Kristi Helmkamp, Visitor & Learning Experiences Manager at 920-734-3226 x23 or kehelmkamp@tds.net by September 19, 2011.

Adults only, please.

Love Sponge Bob? Don't Miss Annual Under the Sea Adventure 3

2011-09-09T13:59:00.000-05:00

Join us the our Annual Under the Sea Adventure 3 for dinner, entertainment, activities and Under the Sea Fun and of course a special appearance from Nickelodeon's SpongeBob!

Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17, 6 pm - 8 pm

$5.50 per person for members and $9 per person for non-members.

Call 920-734-3226 to register for this fun family friendly evening!

Meet Belle This Week at the Museum

2011-08-23T08:47:00.000-05:00

Storybook Stars with Belle

Tuesday, August 23 - Friday, August 26

2 pm - 3pm

Join us for an afternoon of storytelling with our Storybook Star! Children will explore the world of Beauty and the Beast with Belle and make tissue paper roses to take home. Parents - don't forget your cameras! There will be plenty of time for photo opportunities with our visiting princess.

Preschoolers and parents/caregivers are welcome to join the fun.

No advanced registration required.

FREE for museum members and included with museum admission.

JUMBO Chalk Making This Week in DaVinci Art & Science Studio

2011-08-16T08:20:00.002-05:00

This Week In DaVinci: JUMBO Chalk Making
Tuesday, August 16 - Friday, August 19
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Free with museum Admission
In celebration of the August 19th Chalk About Town! Event in Downtown Appleton, visitors to the children's museum August 16-19 will learn about exothermic science and how chalk is made.

Budding artist will create their own custom colored chalk in the DaVinci Art & Science Studio. Participants will

choose their colors
make a mold
observe chemical reactions
create a work of art.

Join The Post-Crescent & DealChicken help raise money for The Building for Kids Children's Museum

2011-08-16T07:43:00.000-05:00

For each new (free) email registration DealChicken receives from fans of the museum, $.50 is donated to the museum!

Did you know The Building for Kids is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization supported by donations, memberships and admissions. The museum does not receive local, state, or federal funding.

Sign up now at http://register.dealchicken.com/1014PC/bfk to register FREE for DealChicken and help us continue our mission to build children's creativity, confidence and imagination.

Thank you for you support!

Chalk About Town Featuring Free Chalk Art Area For Kids

2011-08-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

Create Chalk Art in the Children's Chalk Area

Friday, August 19th

2 pm - 5pm

Houdini Plaza (across from the museum),

Downtown Appleton

*FREE please pre-register your child(ren)

Hey kids! Come and create your work of art in Houdini Plaza during Appleton Downtown Inc's special "Chalk About Town" feature during Art on the Town on Friday, August 19th.

The Building for Kids Children's Museum is hosting a Children's Chalk Area in Houdini Plaza from 2pm - 5pm. We are inviting all area children to embrace the visual arts by creating their own chalk art piece. Participants will be given a FREE chalk board and chalk to create their artwork during the event, which is theirs to take home.

Click here to REGISTER

Although free, pre-registration is required to participate to help organizers better determine the number of chalkboards needed. Please register your child(ren) below.
The Children's Chalk Area will also feature:

chalk art activities
music
Mary Poppins will be making an appearance

Sponsored by Octoberfest, this and other daytime art activities downtown are part of a collaborative effort between ADI, The Building for Kids Children's Museum, Lawrence University and Downtown business owners to celebrate the arts by creating sidewalk chalk art pieces in front of their businesses, beginning at 1pm the day of the event.

You Are Invited to PBS Kids Get Up And Go Day this Friday!

2011-08-03T12:24:00.001-05:00

Where will you be on Friday morning? Join The Building for Kids and our partners for WI PBS Kids Get Up and Go Day from 9-11am!

We will be at the Child Care Resource and Referral Inc. in Menasha.

There will be music, movement, crafts and science activities as well as Clifford the Big Red Dog!
No registration is necessary for this FREE event. For more information, call CCR & R at 920-866-1211. CCR & R is located at 1165 Appleton Road, Menasha.

The Parade is on!

2011-07-27T16:38:00.000-05:00

Load up the car, bring the kids. It is sprinkling now but our weather guru says it will stop just in time for the start of the parade at 6pm. Looking forward to seeing you at Houdini Plaza. Registration begins at 5pm.

Children's Parade Weather Update

2011-07-27T15:17:00.000-05:00

According to our inside weather guru a storm will pass thru between 3 and 5pm but from 5pm - 9pm our wishes have been granted and precipitation is only at 10%! Looking forward to seeing you at the parade. Bring your smiles, creativity and cameras.

The parade begins at 6pm on College Avenue.

See you tonight!

Children's Parade Weather Update

2011-07-27T12:17:00.000-05:00

Looks like a window of clear skies will be happening for the Parade. We will be watching the weather and making the final call for the parade with posts on Facebook, our website and blog at 4:30 PM.

Children's Parade Tips and Reminders

2011-07-25T15:01:00.000-05:00

We look forward to a fun evening with over 1,000 kids registered to march down College Avenue! Here are some helpful tips and reminders about the event:

Watching the Parade?

The parade begins at 6pm in front of the Building for Kids Children's Museum and Houdini Plaza on College Avenue in Appleton. The parade runs East on College Avenue, turns left on Drew Street and ends in City Park.

The parade ends with a Family Event in City Park. Fun activities are planned at the park and we will be selling food so don't forget your cash!

Registration ends today, Monday July 25. Register online here.

Registered for the Parade?

Line Up and Registration begins at 5:15 pm on College Avenue in front of the Building for Kids Children's Museum and Houdini Park. The parade begins at 6pm.

Pick Up Your Parade Packet Early! You may pick up your parade packet which includes your bib # on Tuesday from 9am - 5pm or on Wednesday from 9am - noon in the museum lobby. If you do not pick it up early, no worries. We will have tables in Houdini Plaza where you can pick up your bib # beginning at 5:15pm on Wednesday.

Attach your Bib # on the left side of your float, bike, wagon or person. Judges will be positioned on the left side of the parade route.

Marching with a group? Contact your group leader and choose a place in Houdini Park to meet up. Have your leader hold signs or balloons to make it easy for to find your group. Only one bib number per group is needed.

The parade ends with a Family Event in City Park. Park your bike or float in our staging area and bring cash. We will be selling food in City Park, so if you want a juice or a hot dog, please bring cash.

Adults may participate while serving as a designated escort, as a member of a band or other musical, group or as a person powering a float. Groups should limit the number of adults. Adults should not block the view of the children from the audience. We do not want to distract from the parade highlight - the children.

REQUIREMENTS:
Only NON-MOTORIZED "floats" are allowed. No motors or engines of any kind are allowed. Children may walk or be transported by wheelchair, strollers, wagons, trikes, bikes or small floats. Failure to control the floats shall result with the float being removed from the parade. Any child that is unable to walk the required parade route should be transported. Questions regarding appropriate vehicles should be directed to the Children's Parade Coordinator.

No items may be tossed or handed out to the audience. No banners or themes that are commercial, political, or controversial may be displayed. No, advertising or signs of any kind may be displayed other than a small sign identifying the float name and organization (if registered as a GROUP). Themes should be appropriate for children.

Group representatives are responsible for informing their participants of parade requirements and rules, time, location, parking and any other necessary details.

Parents or group leaders are responsible for their children at all times, including the staging area, in the parade procession, and at the conclusion of the parade. A parent, guardian or group leader MUST be present at the event at all times. No child may be "dropped off" or left unaccompanied at any time.

Smoking or the drinking of alcoholic beverages will not be allowed in the staging area, Houdini Plaza or City Park.

Parking automobiles inside or closely beside the staging area is not permitted for the safety of the children.

AWARDS
Awards will be given out for the following categories: Imagination, Creativity, Confidence

The City of Appleton Celebrates Children's Week

2011-07-23T10:41:00.000-05:00

Mark your calendar for July 24th - 30th as we celebrate with the City of Appleton the children of Appleton with Children’s Week! We are so happy to be part of this week long celebration sponsored by the City of Appleton. As you can see, our Children's Parade is one of the featured events of the week.

We hope you and your family will join us at the parade and enjoy the special events happening next week. Watch the City of Appleton's website and Appleton Park and Rec Facebook page for detailed information on activities scheduled for this week including the annual Playground Fair at Pierce Park and the Building for Kids Children’s Parade.

Don't forget, the last day to register your family for the Children's Parade is Monday, July 25.

Here is the schedule of events for Children's Week:

Events for Kids at the Children's Museum: July 1-3, 2011

2011-07-01T08:55:00.000-05:00

Exploding T-Shirts!

Where science and art go BOOM with color!

WHEN: Friday, July 1^st 10:00-12:00 pm
Saturday, July 2^nd 10:00-12:00 pm
Sunday, July 3^rd 1:00-3:00pm

WHERE: DaVinci Studio, 2nd floor

Centrifugal force, primary fabric paint and well… a dash of sparkle make for one interesting walking art form! Primary color is all you need and a little bit of speed to make it spin.

This is FREE of charge is you bring your t-shirts from home. If you forget your t-shirts, we will be selling them at the front desk in all sizes for only $5.00 each!

Imagine the World of Cinderella and Fairy Tales

Let your imagination wonder as you explore the world of fairy tales.

WHEN: Saturday, July 2^nd from 10:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 3^rd from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Classroom 2 – 2^nd floor

· Create your own fairy godparent paper doll

· Design a new carriage for Cinderella

· Search for Cinderella’s lost slipper and more!

Free with museum admission.

Adults must accompany children.

Recommended for ages 4 & up.

The Building for Kids Children's Museum will be closed on Monday, July 4th.

Have a happy and safe holiday weekend!

Celebrate National Fairy Day! Wear Fairy Wings on Friday and Get Free Admission to the Museum!

2011-06-23T13:26:00.000-05:00

Did you know that Friday, June 24th is National Fairy Day!

To celebrate, wear your fairy wings to the The Building for Kids Children's Museum

on Friday, June 24th and receive FREE admission to the museum!

Enjoy these special art activities in DaVinci Studio:

Fairy Flower Wands and Fairy Flower Head Bands

9:30 am-10:45 am

1:30 pm - 5:00 pm

and take 10% off fairy related merchandise in the Museum Store

(excludes Blue Moon Emporium necklaces).

Once Upon a Time Summer Activities With Our Friends from Appleton Public Library

2011-06-22T08:58:00.001-05:00

Mark your calendars for these educational activities with our friends from the Appleton Public Library. All activities are free with your admission to the museum.

Wednesday June 29^th

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Lon Po Po

Little Red Riding Hood Theater! With our friends from theAppleton Public Library

For ages 4 and older

Explore theater with percussion and costumes. Everyone is a star and enjoys some partof the play. We will perform theChinese version of Lon PoPo (Little Red Riding Hood) and the English versionthat we have grown up with.

Wednesday July 6^th

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Story time with the museum in the garden! With our friendsfrom the Appleton Public Library. Art project in DaVinci Studio to follow the story reading.

Our interactive stories are taken from the stories you willsee in our exhibit. Veryinteractive and enjoyable for all ages

Wednesday July 13^th

10:00 am

The Elves and the Shoe maker story read by our friends fromthe Appleton Public Library

After your story, come to DaVinci and decorate your canvasshoes with your own personal style!

Shoe decorating from11:00-2:00pm

*you must bring your own shoes from home to participate inshoe decorating.

Wednesday July 20^th

^{10:00 am – 12:00 pm}

OINK!!! It’sthe Three Little Pigs Theater!

Costumes, sounds and more! Everyone is a start and will play a part. Create your ownThree Little Pigs Masks in DaVinci after the story.

For ages 4 and older.

Hosted in DaVinci Studio with help from our friends at theAppleton public Library

Wednesday July 27^th

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Jack and the Bean Stalk! Enjoy the interactive story in the Happy Baby Garden withour friends form the Appleton Public Library. After the story come on over to DaVinci Studio and learn howto make gold coins with some exciting science and plant some of your own magicbeans in our SCIENCE Soil!

Wednesday August 3^rd

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Anansi and the talking Melon with our friends from theAppleton Public Library

Listen and interact with our story in the Happy BabyGarden. In DaVinci Studio we willbe creating Monkey King Crowns and traditional African art work.

Wednesday August10^th

^{10:00 am12:00 pm}

Beauty and the Beast Roses

Stories and Activities with our friends from the AppletonPublic Library

Learn all about creating the most beautiful tissue paperrose like the rose from Beauty and the Beast. Want to get even more creative? What about bringing in your flowers and we will help you dipthem in rendered bee’s wax to make the most perfect everlasting flowers to takehome?

August 17^th

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Cinderella Fest in the Happy Baby Garden!

Come dressed up as your favorite prince or princess fromCinderella and listen to our story read aloud by the Appleton PublicLibrary. After our story join usin DaVinci Studio as we create Magic Wands, crowns and watch as we createcrystallized slippers in our science lab!

August 24^th

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Puppets in the Happy Baby Garden!

All ages please join us as we celebrate some of our fairytales from the exhibit in the Happy Baby Garden! Enjoy creating your own set of Little Red Riding hood or LonPoPo finger puppets in DaVinci after the show!

Wednesday August31

10:00 am 12:00 pm

Thumbelina Day! Celebrate your favorite story in the Happy Baby Garden as our friendsfrom the Appleton Public Library read aloud to us. Create your very own fairy wings in the DaVinci Studio and agiant size flower to make you fee like Thumbelina!

Have You Seen Our New Photo Gallery

2011-06-16T17:36:00.000-05:00

The Building for Kids Photo Gallery is now online. You'll find pictures of museum exhibits, special events and Children's Parade photos. Visit often to see what is new at the museum.

SPECIAL EVENT: Storybook Stars Story Telling and Craft for PreSchoolers

2011-06-08T15:17:00.000-05:00

Join us at 2:00 pm on Thursday, June 9th, Friday, June 10th or Saturday, June 11th.

Preschoolers...hop into the museum for an afternoon of story telling with the Storybook Stars. We will dive into the world of frogs with Froggy Learns to Swim by Jonathan London and will make a craft for you to take home.

Preschoolers and parents are welcome to join the fun

No advanced registration required.

Free Admission to Military Personnel and Their Families This Summer

2011-05-28T12:24:00.001-05:00

BUILDING FOR KIDS TO PARTICIPATE
IN BLUE STAR MUSEUMS

Appleton children’s museum is one of more than 1,300 museums across America

to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer

APPLETON – The Building for Kids Children’s Museum announces today the launch of Blue Star Museums, a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families and more than 1,300 museums across America to offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2011.

“We are pleased to offer free admission to the men and women serving our country and their families. We are appreciative of the hard work they do every day to keep our country safe and secure,” said Dana Thorpe, executive director of the Building for Kids. “The Blue Star Museums program is a terrific way to recognize and thank our military families”.

Leadership support has been provided by MetLife Foundation through Blue Star Families. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

During last summer’s inaugural program, more than 300,000 military family members visited participating museums, said Blue Star Families Chairman Kathy Roth-Douquet. “We hope to exceed that number this year as the military community takes advantage of the rich cultural heritage they defend and protect every day. We appreciate the NEA and the nation’s museums who chose to partner with us,” she said.

This summer, more than 1,324 (and counting) museums in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa are taking part in the initiative, including more than 500 new museums this year.

The free admission program is available from May 30 through Sept. 5 to active-duty military and their immediate family. Military members must have their ID to quality. Active duty military include Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and active duty National Guard and active duty Reserve members.

Blue Star Families is a national, nonpartisan, nonprofit network of military families from all ranks and services, including guard and reserve, with a mission to support, connect and empower military families. For more information, please visit www.bluestarfam.org.

New Exhibit Coming in June: Once Upon a Time...Exploring the World of Fairy Tales

2011-05-23T14:15:00.000-05:00

New Traveling Exhibit Coming June 18-September 18, 2011

Once Upon A Time...Exploring the World of Fairy Tales

This unique and educational exhibit focuses on the power and significance of fairy tales throughout history and from around the world. From an African jungle to a giant’s castle, explore larger-than-life pages of 7 favorite fairy tales. Enter into a fabulous storybook kingdom and learn the meaning and history of tales you’ve known all your lives and others that may be new to you.

You can really get into the stories as you cross a wooden bridge in Anansi and the Talking Melon, play a harpsichord in Beauty and the Beast, try on a glass slipper in Cinderella, work at a cobblers bench in The Elves and the Shoemaker, climb a beanstalk in Jack and the Beanstalk, catch a wolf in Lon Po Po and crawl through a mole’s hole in Thumbelina.

Members, admission to this new traveling exhibit is included in your Membership. Do you want to purchase a museum membership? Stop in or call 920.734.3226 to purchase yours today!

SPECIAL EVENT: Silk Painting with Artist Sandra Melroy

2011-05-23T14:00:00.000-05:00

Painting with Artist in Residence Sandra Melroy in DaVinci Studio
Tuesday, May 24, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Join our Artist in Residence Sandra Melroy as she returns to the Building for Kids Children’s Museum to inspire, create and teach you how to make the most beautiful Japanese inspired silk walk painting.

This drop in style class is for children 6 and older with their adult helper.
*** Please note, this project will take 25 minutes MINIMUM to complete. Plan accordingly.

Additional Information
Grown ups must accompany their children.

Building for Kids Children's Museum New Saturday Hours

2011-05-23T13:45:00.001-05:00

The Building for Kids Children's Museum is now open one hour earlier on Saturday mornings. We now open our doors at 9:00 a.m.

Museum Hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Thursdays 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Sundays Noon-5:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays