Summer 2015 Curiosity
letter from the director
Hi Everyone,
Our Mission: To ignite and advance creative thinking for all children. Address 557 McReynolds Road Sausalito, CA 94965 BayKidsMuseum.org
Closed Monday: June 1 & 8, August 24 & 31 Saturday: July 4
Phone Number Main Line: (415) 339-3900 Fax: (415) 339-3901
Special Summer Hours Monday – Sunday: June 9 – August 23 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Ages The Museum serves children 6 months to 8 years old, their families, educators and caregivers.
Members-Only Hours Saturday: June 6, 13, 20 & 27 8 – 9 a.m.
Regular Museum Hours Tuesday − Sunday: 9 a.m. − 5 p.m.
Extended Hours for Curiosity Fridays Friday: June 19, July 17 & August 21 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Directions From the North/East Bay: Take the Alexander Ave. exit just before the Golden Gate Bridge. Follow the signs to the Bay Area Discovery Museum and Fort Baker. From San Francisco: Take Alexander Ave. exit. Follow the signs to the Bay Area Discovery Museum and Fort Baker.
Please note: Dates, times and prices are subject to change. Please check our website for the most up-to-date listings.
the mmer of Curiosity at This summer is the Su sity so lging your child’s curio Museum. Why is indu ildhood eum’s Center for Ch important? The Mus r outlining pa ently published a pe Creativity (CCC) rec children, in onents of creativity the seven critical comp ation are . Curiosity and motiv one being motivation the most curiosity being one of expressly linked, with the paper, tivators. As stated in powerful intrinsic mo ntal me core of the develop “Motivation is at the their curiosity. to explore and satisfy ren ild ch s ire sp in d a experience an thout the promise of motivated, acting wi lly na ter in are als When individu creative.” reward, they are more experiences for opportunities and g kin loo s ay alw am at I rn, to know more, I know as a mother th curious, to want to lea be to ren ild ch my Museum’s site and that will inspire e Bay Area Discovery Th y. vit ati cre eir th velop their innate and that will foster sity in children and de rio cu ire sp in to d ne sig is summer. Visit programming are de this amazing place th of e ag nt va ad e tak u to creativity. I invite yo e your eyes. children flourish befor ur yo tch often and wa ativity in children, six components of cre er oth e th d an C CC e tivity.org. To learn more about th nterforChildhoodCrea Ce at C CC e th of at or th please visit our website useum. ing you around the M I look for ward to see Regards,
Karyn Flynn rector CEO & Executive Di
INSIDE THIS ISSUE June is
Member Month
School Programs and other news for educators
Discovery School & Discovery Camps
Discovery Store
Help Children
Why You Should Host Your Birthdays and Events at the Museum
Favorites
Summer of
Curiosity programming
Cultivating Curiosity
Summer Calendar
Stay Ahead this Summer
in 21st Century Kids
Our NEW
Strategic Plan
Our new research on the
Critical Components
of Creativity
Playdate 2015
Thank You
Museum at Home: Tips for Cultivating Curiosity
member news
Thank you, Members!
June is Member Month
Members enable us to carry out our mission to ignite and advance creative thinking for all children. To show our appreciation, we’re hosting a month-long celebration in June featuring special events, giveaways and extra benefits just for Members! Members-Only Hours Every Saturday in June, the Museum will be open just for Members from 8 – 9 a.m. Free coffee for adults and special appearances by Curious George™ are just two reasons you’ll want to take advantage of Members-only hours!
Extra Discounts 20% discount at the Discovery Store 10% discount at Bean Sprouts Café
Bring-Your-Friends Day Friday, June 19 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Members can bring up to two extra friends (adult or child) to the Museum for our first Curiosity Friday (see page 3)! There will be special programming all day and we’re staying open late for an evening of fun, food and friends. Don’t miss this chance to meet Curious George™ and explore the new exhibition based on the beloved little monkey.
Special Giveaways We’ll be giving out small tokens of appreciation all month long to our Members. Mark your calendars for the following dates when the first 250 Member families will receive a special gift at the Front Desk. Saturday, June 6 Wednesday, June 17 Sunday, June 21 Tuesday, June 30
Monthly Member Play Dates First Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m.
Members are invited to participate in a special Members-only program led by our talented Education staff. Have fun with hands-on projects and activities focusing on themes like science, art and nature. Check the chalkboard at the front desk on the day of the Member Play Date for exact meeting location. Member Play Dates are designed for children of all ages. For more information, visit BayKidsMuseum.org/memberplaydates.
Upcoming Member Play Dates June 2: Member Bounce-a-Palooza Party Get your face painted and jump around in our bounce house at this extra-special Member Play Date.
July 7: Colorful Chemists Pour, spray, hammer and play! Get creative while combining science and art in this multi-colored experimentation zone.
August 4: Painting from Nature Look closely at objects from our local beaches, then use crayons and watercolor paints to create your own observational artwork.
BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
1
Open Every Day
June 9 – August 23 (closed July 4)
Lizard Lady
Special Summer Programs
Discovery Theatre
These programs are included in the cost of admission and will run June – August. Please see our online listing of daily programs at BayKidsMuseum.org/summer for full descriptions.
July 1
10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. & 1:15 p.m
Daily
MOnday – Thursday
Toddler Circle Time, Tot Spot 9:30 – 10 a.m.
Research Toys, Research Lab 3:45 – 4:30 p.m.
Sing songs, dance, wiggle and hop around in this fun-filled program made especially for our youngest Museum visitors.
Participate in an interactive activity to learn more about how the latest research on child development informs our Museum programming.
“Curious George” Storytime, Various Locations 11 – 11:30 a.m. Join our educators for a special storytime dedicated to Curious George and his misadventures, followed by an interactive dramatic play opportunity. Check the calendar on pages 8 and 9 for our book of the day.
Curiosity Corner, Satterlee Way 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Expand your curiosity with in-depth explorations of math, science, engineering, nature and art in programs like Kitchen Chemistry, Puzzlers and Dig Deeper.
Creativity Kits, Various Locations 2:45 – 3:15 p.m. Play in new ways with our educators in locations that your child knows and loves throughout the Museum with themes like Bubble Boppin’, Treasure Hunting and Math-in-Motion.
2 SUMMER 2015
Friday – Sunday “Curious George” Storytime, Various Locations 3:45 – 4:15 p.m. Double your fun with an additional Curious George storytime, followed by an interactive dramatic play opportunity.
Select Days Off-Site Adventures, Various Locations June 19, July 11 & 17, August 2 & 21 10:30 – 11 a.m. or 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. In these family adventures designed to share a little bit of history and natural wonder, experience new parts of Fort Baker in trips to Horseshoe Cove, the Parade Grounds, the Batteries and local trails.
BayKidsMuseum.org
Appearances by Curious George all summer long!
TM
June
19
Monkey Business
Highlights include appearances by Curious George, a performance by Blues Whale, and a Jelly Jam Time puppet show with parade.
with appearances by Curious George open late!
Curiosity Fridays will have special programming from 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Please see our schedule at BayKidsMuseum.com/summer
July
17
Go Bananas Movie Night
Highlights include appearances by Curious George, an interactive Shipwrecked Play, screening of a Curious George™ movie, and banana splits.
august
21
Monkeying Around
CG_68_FLAT_CPG2.EPS
Highlights include appearances by Curious George with parade, a dancing storytime with Jelly Jam Time, and a musical performance.
CG_68_CPG2.EPS
Preferred character art usage Curious George and related characters, created by Margret and H. A. Rey, are copyrighted and trademarked by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company and used under license. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLLP. All rights reserved. pbskids.org/curiousgeorge www.curiousgeorge.com
BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
3
who we are
Our mission: to ignite and advance creative thinking for all children.
The walls in the Art Studios feature questions parents can ask their children as they explore and create.
Cultivating Curiosity in Our 21st Century Kids By Sara Norris, Teacher-In-Residence
As we prepare our children to be caring members of society, curiosity is key. Curiosity is also an instinctual behavior that can be cultivated. Here’s why we need to protect time for unstructured play and exploration. Curiosity is Natural
Curiosity is Key
Anyone who has spent time with a young child knows what curiosity looks and sounds like. The classic expression of a child’s curiosity is the oft quoted “Mama, why is the sky blue?” Beautiful in its simplicity, this expression celebrates the natural inclination of the young child to wonder, communicate and learn. In fact, children naturally engage in behaviors that involve foundational scientific processes such as observation. Those observations stimulate the child’s curiosity and desire to explore. Young children routinely move through the day with their senses primed to gather data in the endeavor to make meaning of the world around them. The data they gather comes from what they see, hear, smell, taste and touch.
As parents and educators prepare our children to be caring 21st century citizens primed to make meaningful contributions to our world, curiosity is key. When curiosity is cultivated alongside empathy, creativity, confidence and grit, the sky’s the limit for our kids. Curious people are our innovators, finding problems to explore and solve. They investigate, ask questions, provide creative solutions, take risks and are resilient in the face of setbacks, learning from their mistakes. Curiosity is also a strong motivator for learning. When kids are afforded the opportunity to articulate and explore their own questions, engagement in the process is much stronger and the lessons learned are more memorable.
The Curiosity Chasm Current discourse about our schools and the state of teaching and learning in the United States increasingly includes concerns about the gap between the educational opportunities and experiences offered to different student populations. In some schools, the creation of curricula based on student interest is the norm. Educators build on student curiosity and provide inquiry driven and project-based exploration that is shown to increase both student engagement and learning. In these settings, students are inspired to learn and are encouraged to achieve in meaningful ways across content areas. Unfortunately, in most schools this is not the case. Instead, student interest and inquiry are greatly underutilized as a motivator for engagement and learning. This is what I refer to as the curiosity chasm. Instead of emphasizing inquiry, creative thinking and meaningful, multidimensional learning experiences, standardized testing has forced many schools to emphasize production of answers over understanding, memorization of procedure over real-life application of ideas and passive listening over active communication. In effect, curiosity is discouraged. The consequences for our students who are graduating into an innovation economy could be dire.
Learn tips for cultivating your child’s natural curiosity at home on page 17. 4 SUMMER 2015
BayKidsMuseum.org
our school programs Here at the Museum, as we work to ignite and advance creative thinking for all children, cultivating curiosity is key to the realization of our mission. Our new and innovative School Programs (see page 7) offer playful, open-ended learning experiences for children ages three to eight that build on children’s natural curiosity. We ask parents, teachers and students to try something new, ask questions and have fun while exploring meaningful content derived from Common Core Math and Next Generation Science Standards. Students explore STEM topics through hands-on, collaborative activities. We communicate to Idea Lab participants
Here at the Museum, as we work to ignite and advance creative thinking for all children, cultivating curiosity is key to the realization of our mission. that risk-taking, curiosity and play are essential for engagement and meaningful learning. Participant evaluations tell us that the programming has opened the minds of many parents and educators to new learning possibilities for their children and students. Parents and teachers have the opportunity to observe Museum educators drawing on the curiosity of students,
facilitating their exploration of content, surfacing their ideas and questions, and helping them to shift and develop them through experiential learning. We should view children’s natural curiosity as worthy of cultivation and provide opportunities for children to construct knowledge in a way that is crucial for meaningful, memorable learning in the classroom and beyond.
Curiosity Can Be Cultivated While children are naturally curious, it’s important that we cultivate their curiosity toward promoting healthy cognitive growth and development. What is our role in cultivating our children’s natural curiosity?
Protect time for unstructured play and exploration Children need unscheduled time in which to play, create and just be. Not only does this foster development of their autonomy and independence, but these open-ended experiences also provide opportunities for curiosity, investigation, discovery and innovation. Who knows what amazing things your child can create from tape, cardboard and paint, what stories they might tell when imagining a perfect day or what they might invent to solve a problem for someone in the family? It’s only when kids become dependent on over-structured, adult-directed activities that we consistently hear statements like “I’m bored” when they find themselves in an unscheduled moment. Consider limiting screen time and providing more opportunities for child-directed exploration. Help your child learn to find inspiration for play and exploration in their immediate environment.
Encourage inquiry Young children naturally ask questions and want to understand the people, places and things in the world around them. If we want children to be active agents of their own learning, we must keep curiosity active in their daily lives. Help children to articulate what they wonder by modeling expression of your own questions about what you observe. Provide open-ended questions and prompts that invite a variety of responses and do not ask for a “right” answer. Help children to explore and discover the answers to their questions through authentic experiences.
Engage in conversation An important skill for children to develop is the ability to articulate their thinking and ideas in conversation with others. Communication and collaboration are key skills that all children should develop. Talk with them about the questions that their curiosity inspires. Have they found a question that warrants investigation? Can they describe a problem that they have found? Gently challenge their ideas and ask them what they can do to investigate other possibilities. “I notice… Tell me more about… I wonder… What do you think would happen if… ?” You’ll be amazed and delighted by what you hear when you take time to talk through your child’s ideas with her.
BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
5
new museum strategic plan
Our vision: to give 1 million children annually a strong start in life.
our new strategic plan The first years of life lay the foundation for creative learning—and for learning gaps. Creativity in early childhood matters. And can be taught. On the eve of our 25th Anniversary, we commit to helping young children maximize their creative potential and develop their ability to solve the complex challenges facing our community.
our museum
+ our community
our 3 strategic goals 1 At the Museum To give more children, families, and teachers the opportunity to visit the Museum and benefit from our expertise in early childhood creativity. 2 In our Community To expand partnerships and bring our expertise into the community in order to reach more low-income children, their families, and educators. 3 Nationally To advocate for the critical importance of creativity in early childhood through our Center for Childhood Creativity.
our key initiatives In support of these goals, we are pursuing more than 15 key initiatives, including:
+
• Professional learning opportunities for formal and informal educators to bring best practices in creativity development and high engagement STEAM learning to preschool and early elementary children.
our nation
• A digital communication platform to provide parents and caregivers of low-income children tips and activities for the development of creative problem solving skills.
= our vision To give 1 million children annually a strong start in life
• A research-backed school readiness program that builds the skills and habits children need to thrive. • School visits that model high engagement, standardsbased mathematics and science learning. • Speaking engagements and advisory partnerships to bring research on early childhood & creativity to the national conversation. For more information please visit www.baykidsmuseum.org Thank you McKinsey & Company for generously supporting our strategic planning process.
6 SUMMER 2015
BayKidsMuseum.org
for educators
Connecting with educators on the importance of early childhood creativity.
Summer Professional Development for Educators
Educators
Save 20%
on Museum Membership
Registration is open for two summer professional development workshops at the Museum for teachers, administrators and museum educators. To register, visit BayKidsMuseum.org/PD. The Building Blocks of Creative Thinking for Pre-K to 3rd grade educators August 3 – 5, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Spend your summer playing, discovering and creating with your kids at the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Membership pays for itself in just three visits, and as an educator, you can save 20% with the code TEACHER20.
NEW! High Engagement Mathematics in the Early Elementary Classroom for TK to 3rd grade educators August 6 – 7, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Buy today at BayKidsMuseum.org/teacher.
school programs Want to ignite creative thinking in your child’s classroom? Tell your child’s teacher about our amazing STEM-based, self-guided field trips and facilitated workshops for preschool to 3rd grade students. Programs can take place on-site at the Museum or in your child’s classroom.
Three options are available: • Self-guided Discover-itYourself Visits start at $8/student • Facilitated Idea Lab Workshops start at $200/class session • Three-series Facilitated STEM Intensives start at $30/student
Reservations for the 2015 – 2016 school year will begin on August 15, 2015 at BayKidsMuseum.org/schoolprograms.
BayKidsMuseum.org
What teachers are saying: “I just wanted to thank you so
much for all your efforts…this is the BEST experience we have had yet! I love the lab. It was such a great hands-on activity. I cannot wait to continue this next week as part of my curriculum.”
What parent chaperones are saying: “Having my child learn is always a blessing and just me being involved is helping our relationship grow. Thank you.”
SUMMER 2015
7
28
Summer Camps
29
Kitchen Chemistry
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Summer Camps
6
23
30
Kitchen Chemistry
7
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Kitchen Chemistry
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Check out a full list of daily programs including Toddler Circle Time, Creativity Kits and Research Toys at BayKidsMuseum.org/calendar.
5
16
9
2
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
Even more to do, every day!
SF Pride Celebration
Kitchen Chemistry
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Kitchen Chemistry
22
Kitchen Chemistry
Daily Programs
Summer Camps
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
15
8
“Curious George at the Parade”
21
14
Summer Camps
Closed
Summer Camps
Daily Programs Member Play Date: Bounce-a-Palooza Party
tue
17
10
3
24
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs Lizard Lady (Performance) “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
Summer Camps
wed
July
Kitchen Chemistry
8
1
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
wed
June
with Curious George™
1
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs Father’s Day Celebration
Daily Programs
Daily Programs Cloud Formations (Performance)
7
Closed
Summer Camps
mon
2015
Summer Events
18
11
4
25
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
thur
Kitchen Chemistry
9
2
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
thur
26
open late
19
12
5
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
fri
Kitchen Chemistry
10
3
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs
with Curious George™
Daily Programs
Daily Programs Donor Circle Curious George Party
fri
20
13
6
27
Daily Programs
Closed
sat
Kitchen Chemistry
11
4
“Curious George at the Parade”
Daily Programs Members Only 8 – 9 a.m.
Kitchen Chemistry
“Curious George at the Parade”
Members Only 8 – 9 a.m.
Daily Programs
Members Only 8 – 9 a.m.
Daily Programs
Members Only 8 – 9 a.m. Cloud Formations (Performance)
Daily Programs
sat
August 21 – Monkey Business: appearances by Curious George with parade, musical performance, shipwrecked play, and dancing storytime with Jelly Jam Time.
July 17 – Go Bananas Movie Night: appearances by Curious George, shipwrecked play, screening of a Curious George movie, and banana splits.
June 19 – Monkey Business: appearances by Curious George, performance by Blues Whale, and puppet show and parade with Jelly Jam Time.
Special programming included with regular admission from 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. See full schedule at BayKidsMuseum.com/summer.
Open Late for Curiosity Fridays!
Summer Camps
Summer Camps
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
30
23
Closed
Closed
31
24
Tinker with Transportation
Tinker with Transportation
17
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
10
3
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Summer Camps
Puzzlers
Daily Programs
Summer Camps
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Puzzlers
16
Summer Camps
Daily Programs
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
9
2
21
14
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
18
11
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
29
25
12
5
19
Daily Programs
Tinker with Transportation
26
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Tinker with Transportation
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
16
23
13
6
30
20
Daily Programs
27
24
open late
17
14
7
31
Daily Programs
with Curious George™
Tinker with Transportation
28
open late
21
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
with Curious George™
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
18
25
15
8
1
Daily Programs
Daily Programs
Tinker with Transportation
29
22
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
sat
(closed July 4)
June 9 – August 23
Open Every Day
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Nature Hike
Color Mixing Murals
“Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
The last day to play in Wave Workshop is August 30. We will begin installing a new special exhibition opening in January 2016. Stay tuned for details this summer.
Tinker with Transportation
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Tinker with Transportation
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
Good bye t o Wa v e Wor ks h op Wa ve
Daily Programs
Tinker with Transportation
“Curious George Takes the Train”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Puzzlers
4
Daily Programs Member Play Date: Painting from Nature “Curious George Goes to the Beach”
22 “Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Sponsored by
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
15
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
August
28
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
“Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
“Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
Daily Programs Member Play Date: Colorful Chemists
Free First Wednesdays
“Curious George Goes to the Beach”
Daily Programs
Horseshoe Bay Play
Puzzlers
Daily Programs “Curious George Goes to the Beach”
sun
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
27
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
Daily Programs
“Curious George Goes Camping”
26
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
Dig Deeper: Plant Life
20
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
13
“Curious George Goes Camping”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
Color Mixing Murals
19
Summer Camps
Daily Programs
“Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
12
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
“Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
Daily Programs
Color Mixing Murals
Daily Programs “Curious George and the Birthday Surprise”
creativity news
From the Museum’s Center for Childhood Creativity
There is a path to creativity. Inspiring a Generation to Create: Critical Components of Creativity in Children The Museum’s Center for Childhood Creativity introduces a new framework for understanding and stimulating creativity in children. Full paper written by Helen Hadani, Ph.D., Head of Research
There have been many conversations about whether or not creativity can be taught—is it a fixed quantity or a renewable resource, capable of being replenished? What is certain is that creativity is increasingly recognized as a key to success in our rapidly changing world. It allows us to recognize needs, to see challenges in a new light and to problem-solve with fresh approaches. Fortunately, research is showing that there is a path to becoming creative. Creativity can, indeed, be cultivated. So, how we do get there? What can we do to support our children to reach their creative potential? Published in partnership with Disney Citizenship, the latest white paper from the Museum’s Center for Childhood Creativity, “Inspiring a Generation to Create: Critical Components of Creativity in Children,” presents a new framework for stimulating creativity in children ages 6–14. We reviewed over 100 academic studies from the past fifty years, examining data from the fields of cognitive and developmental psychology, neuroscience, education and business management to identify the pathways to boosting creativity in children. Our paper sought to answer two questions: what are the processes or skills that are developing in children that contribute to their creativity, and what environments, opportunities and types of adult and peer interaction foster the development of these skills? 10 SUMMER 2015
1
A Roadmap to Building Creativity What emerged from our analysis is a new framework and set of influences to guide how parents, educators and researchers think about and promote creativity. We propose seven critical components of creativity organized across three childhood developmental areas: cognitive; social and emotional; and physical. Below, we summarize our findings about these key developmental characteristics: imagination and originality; flexibility; decision making;
parents and teachers. This is especially important before and during the “fourth grade slump” when children begin to experience more social pressure. Around this age, the ability to be spontaneous, flexible and confident enough to take risks may diminish. Children are innately creative as manifested by the prevalence of imaginary playmates in the early years. Pretend play predicts later capacity for divergent thinking—generating many possible solutions—and original thinking. Similarly, children’s ability to be flexible in their thinking helps them to be
This wondering and openness is something all of us recognize as the birthplace of creativity. You have to be curious and take the risk of learning things you never anticipated. — Carol Dweck, http://nilofermerchant.com/2013/09/27/do-you-trust-in-your-ability-to-grow/
communication and self-expression; motivation; collaboration; and action and movement.
An Open State of Mind Research tells us that all children have creative potential but are heavily influenced and persuaded by outside environmental factors, which can encourage or disrupt this development. The space and time for creative exploration, as well as the introduction of new ideas and novel experiences, needs to be protected and cultivated through reinforcement by peers,
open to different perspectives. This allows children to learn to synthesize new and old experiences to generate insight and build complex understanding. One area of child development which has received little attention, but which is also a strong indicator of creative potential, is decision making. The decision-making process involves both divergent and convergent thinking—focusing on a finite number of solutions—and is an expression of creativity as children demonstrate the ability to make evaluations and judgments. This independent and original thinking
Carol Dweck, http://nilofermerchant.com/2013/09/27/do-you-trust-in-your- ability-to-grow/
CenterforChildhoodCreativity.org
needs to be encouraged during the ages of 9 and 10 (the fourth grade slump), and studies have shown that explicit instructions by adults can stimulate children to be intentionally creative, making wise choices about when and how to follow conventions.
A Supportive Environment “Inspiring a Generation to Create” proposes that creativity is not an elusive talent but can be intentional, and therefore learned, especially if the environment supports its growth. Our paper shares research on the connection between creativity and self-efficacy, the belief in one’s ability to achieve a goal. Several studies point to positive feedback from authority figures, especially teachers, as a strong predictor to creative self-efficacy, confidence and academic success. This self-determination is one of the catalysts to intrinsic motivation: if children are motivated to learn for the sake of learning and self-improvement, this growth mindset will allow them to be open to new possibilities and help them bounce back quicker from set-backs. Parents and teachers who support risk-taking and allow
7
for autonomy will help children retain their intrinsic motivation for learning. The growth of creativity is not limited to the classroom. Exercise, especially walking, has been connected to a burst in creative performance in adults. Physical activity has been linked to enhanced memory and positive academic performance by improving self-esteem. Interestingly enough, recent research suggests that creative individuals split their time between organized and unstructured sports as children. This is a reminder that direct instruction and open-ended exploration should be balanced across all developmental areas for children. Regardless, group activities and collaboration are an invaluable area where children can exercise empathy and perspective-taking to synthesize alternative view points. Teamwork is a learned skill, one that adults should cultivate intentionally. The expression of authentic, original ideas and feelings can only happen if there is room for creative exploration. The mind indeed acts like a muscle and needs to be flexed. To encourage this development, in our paper we provide research-based strategies and activities to foster ingenuity
and inventiveness specifically for children ages 6–14, although these practical applications might appeal to all ages. We encourage parents, teachers and others invested in positive child development to follow this framework and have fun with children using our suggested hands-on activities. If we want to raise the next generation of entrepreneurs, inventors and problem-solvers, we need to cultivate these critical components of creativity now.
Components of Creativity
Download this executive summary and full paper at CenterforChildhoodCreativity.org. BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
11
Discovery School
Space is available in both locations! The Museum’s Discovery Camps will ignite your child’s creativity while enriching their summer with discovery, exploration and fun! We offer a variety of camp themes taught by our professional staff at the Museum and in San Francisco at the Palace of Fine Arts. View our full brochure and register online at BayKidsMuseum.org/camps.
Camps at the Bay Area Discovery Museum weekly, June 1 – August 21 Join our experienced educators for fun and learning at the Museum in one of the following camp themes:
New name — new year! Not-A-School is now
Discovery School Discovery School is designed to ignite young children’s creative thinking as they explore the arts, sciences and the environment through play and guided inquiry at the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Our school is a laboratory for creative thinking where children have the freedom to pursue their passions, interests and ideas. We believe that young children are competent and deserve to be treated as collaborators in the construction of their own knowledge; and that families are our partners in cultivating a community of trust and growth.
Enrollment Options Preschool Class 2, 3 or 5-day options, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Ages 2.9 – 5 years (must be potty-trained)
• Art Attack
• Little Kids, Big Discoveries
• Bugs, Insects and Spiders
• On the Bay
• Creature Creations
• Outdoor Explorers
• Fort Building
• Shipwrecks and Treasure Hunts
• Imaginary Worlds: Witches, Wizards, Knights and Princesses
• Super Heroes and Heroines • Water Wonders
• Inventing with Art
NEW Camp at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco weekly, June 8 – August 21 Join our NEW Palace of Innovation Camp in San Francisco! Each day has a different theme, like Building and Engineering or Maker Challenge, and each week’s adventures are unique so kids can attend multiple weeks.
Expanded Junior Counselor Program weekly, June 1 – August 21 Now for children ages 9–14, Junior Counselors will be paired with an adult staff member in a preschool or pre-kindergarten morning camp where they will learn the ropes, from planning treasure hunts to setting up for snack. And of course, each Junior Counselor will get their very own official staff t-shirt!
NEW for 2015 – 2016 Pre-kindergarten Class Monday – Thursday, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Ages 3.9 – 5 years (by September 30, 2015)
NEW for 2015 – 2016 Toddler & Parent Exploration Class Mondays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ages 18 – 36 months with caregiver For more information: Visit BayKidsMuseum.org/discoveryschool or contact Elisa Pagliarulo at (415) 339-3982 or epagliarulo@badm.org. Facility number 214005255 12 SUMMER 2015
BayKidsMuseum.org
Help Children Stay Ahead This Summer Summer is a critical time for children’s development. Research suggests that children can lose all of the progress they gained during the school year if not exposed to enriching learning experiences over the summer. At the Museum, children have the perfect opportunity to continue building the skills they developed all year long. Curiosity is sparked at every turn and creative thinking is brought to life through our exhibits and expert-led programs. Help more Bay Area children stay ahead over the summer by making a gift to the Museum’s Annual Fund. Your gift will give more children access to the Museum’s high-quality educational opportunities that will keep them on the track to success in school and beyond. Donate online at BayKidsMuseum.org/donate or send a check made payable to “Bay Area Discovery Museum” to:
Make your tax-deducti ble gift today!
Bay Area Discovery Museum, Attn: Annual Fund, 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito, CA 94965
Our Favorite Museum INSTAGRAM MOMENTS
Free First Wednesdays Thanks to generous support from ScholarShare 529 College Savings Plan, the Museum is able to expand its reach and offer free admission to everyone from everywhere on the first Wednesday of each month. Who will you bring?
Free First Wednesdays sponsored by
Free First Wednesdays: June 3, July 1 August 5
SM
BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
13
museum buzz
Arts programming touches almost every child who visits the Museum, from underserved school children on field trips to families attending our famous Messy Art classes. If you would like to support these crucial opportunities for young children to develop creativity skills, please visit BayKidsMuseum.org/donate.
Family Garden Headed to the SF Pride Celebration in the Civic Center? Celebrate all families with us this year in the Family Garden hosted by Our Family Coalition. The Family Garden is located at the Civic Center Playground at the corner of Grove and Larkin.
June 28, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. #familypride 14 SUMMER 2015
BayKidsMuseum.org
Thank you, Marin! The Museum recently received the following accolades from Marin County voters. Thank you, community, for voting us the best! Best Kid’s Museum 2015 North Bay Bohemian, Best of the North Bay
Best Kid’s Camp 2015 Pacific Sun, Best of Marin
Best Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party 2015
Spark Your Curiosity with Discovery Store Favorites membe sav ers
Pacific Sun, Best of Marin
“Curious George™ Super Sticker Activity Book” This book is packed with openended activities to keep Curious George fans occupied. Over 500 stickers are included. $12.99, Members $11.69
Sunday, June 21 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We love you, Dad! Come enjoy a day of family programs and make a special take-home gift — a train made of recycled materials or a puzzle — for dad in the Art Studios!
“Curious George’s Train” Get ready to read and play with “Curious George’s Train,” an interactive board book that’s shaped like a train. $8.99, Members $8.09
eco-dough Made from all natural ingredients including plant, fruit and vegetable extracts. Essential oils keep the dough soft and pliable and provide a light aroma. All natural ingredients equals peace of mind. $19.95, Members $17.91 BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
15
event rentals
Rent the Museum This is no ordinary banquet hall! Wow your guests with spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge at your next party, corporate function or lecture. With both indoor and outdoor locations across the Museum, we’re a perfect choice for small and large events. For more information, visit BayKidsMuseum.org/eventrentals.
Museum Birthdays are the Best! Celebrate your child’s birthday at a fun and unique place! All birthdays offer plenty of party time in one of our private rooms, unlimited fun for your guests throughout the Museum and help from our friendly staff for set up and clean up.
Go Bananas for our Curious George™ Birthday Party
Our theme options: Construction & Cars Jungle Animals Pirate Princess
Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance Party Superheroes Under the Sea
The Curious George Bonanza package is available through September 6 and includes: • 1.5 hours in a fully decorated private party room • Museum staff leading activities • face painting • and a visit from Curious George, too!
For more information and to book, please visit BayKidsMuseum.org/birthdays or call (415) 339-3931.
16 SUMMER 2015
BayKidsMuseum.org
museum at home
Tips for cultivating Your Child’s Natural Curiosity 1
Provide a rich variety of experiences for your child.
2
Welcome the endless questions with patience!
3
Encourage your child to investigate the answers to her own questions when possible.
Visit museums, zoos, libraries, parks and beaches, and talk about the things you see. Vary the environment at home by rotating toys and ensuring babies have novel things in their line of sight.
Your child has a lot to learn about the world around her. Spend time listening to and validating her questions.
Try to refrain from giving quick and easy answers and instead support your child in setting up an experiment to discover the answer.
4
Allow your child to linger on a topic over an extended period of time.
5
Model your own curiosity about our world.
Is your child a dinosaur expert? Can’t get enough of building with LEGO blocks? Support your child’s interests by helping him to form deeper questions and allowing him to spend time getting to know one topic in depth.
Let your child see you investigating an area of interest. Show her that you ask questions and learn throughout your entire life.
Did you know a membership for a family of four to the Bay Area Discovery Museum pays for itself after just three visits? Try us out and if you like us, you can apply your first visit towards the cost! You also get great benefits like invitations to Members-only events (see page 1) and a discount at the Discovery Store. Learn more and apply at BayKidsMuseum.org/membership or visit the Front Desk.
Why Are You a Member of the Bay Area Discovery Museum? We have been members since 2012. Our twins, Dashiell and Savannah love all of the amazingly interactive exhibits. In fact, until they started preschool, we were here at least three days a week. Our youngest, Noah has been tagging along since he was old enough to get out of the house. While the 3-year-olds and 11-month-old have their own unique interests, there’s always something to do that keeps each of them engaged. Whether it’s painting in the Art Studio, splashing in the water feature in Tot Spot, playing with the trains in Bay Hall or enjoying the special events and classes, they always have a blast at the “Disco!” As parents, we are continually amazed at how each of our children develop and play differently with things as they grow. We truly value this amazing place [that is] available to provide such a wide range of developmental experiences for our children. Thank you for all that you do for us and every other family in the Bay Area.
— The Reynolds and Woodrow Family
BayKidsMuseum.org
SUMMER 2015
17
NON-PROFIT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OAKLAND, CA PERMIT NO 259
Fort Baker 557 McReynolds Road Sausalito, CA 94965 BayKidsMuseum.org
open late!
with appearances by Curious George™ June
19
Monkey Business with Blues Whale performance
July
17
Monkey around at the Museum with special programs and events, appearances by Curious George and extended hours until 7:30 p.m. For more details, see page 3. See the full schedule online at BayKidsMuseum.org /summer.
Go Bananas Movie Night with banana splits
august
21
Monkeying Around with story dancing by Jelly Jam Time
Special exhibition Through September 6
Meet Curious George! CG64_FLAT_CPG2.EPS
Visit BayKidsMuseum.org/summer for the schedule.
Curious George and related characters, created by Margret and H. A. Rey, are copyrighted and trademarked by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company and used under license. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLLP. All rights reserved. pbskids.org/curiousgeorge www.curiousgeorge.com