As local parents navigate a state with some welldocumented challenges in education, we believe it’s imperative for families to also understand that we have a wealth of educational opportunities available to us. In addition to offering excellent public, private, charter and online school options, our community provides enriching programs, tutoring support, field trips and opportunities for families to learn together.
As we acknowledge the need for powerful, positive change in our education system, we also commend the people and organizations (especially our teachers!) doing the work to help our students grow academically and as great humans.
Whether you’re looking for a preschool, ways to celebrate Black History Month or STEAM programs to pique your child’s interest, this guide will connect you to the metro’s best educational resources.
Let’s take advantage of the incredible local resources available to us — and let’s work together to foster an environment where all children can thrive!
Find even more educational resources, updated throughout the year, at metrofamilymagazine.com/learning-guide.
What’s Right with
innovative educators are enhancing student literacy
Local Family Fun
Ways to celebrate Black History Month in OKC 30 Not Just for Kids
Explore unique library classes and programs for grown-ups 32 Healing Through Education
How Bethany Children’s Health Center keeps patients on track academically
49 Geek Out!
The metro’s most creative STEAM programs
58 Exploring Oklahoma with Children
A day of play at Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum 62 Last Look
Touring the Oklahoma State Capitol with kids
What’s Right with Our Schools
Building a foundation of literacy through STEAM education
BY TIM WILLERT. PHOTOS PROVIDED.
SPONSORED BY
In classrooms across Oklahoma, teachers are transforming how students learn by blending creativity with critical thinking. Through innovative STEAM education initiatives, like robotics programs and cross-curricular lessons, educators are not just sparking curiosity — they’re laying a strong foundation for reading literacy. These efforts are helping students regain ground lost during the pandemic, proving that the right tools and strategies can inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Engaging the whole child through STEAM
Amy Fullbright spent nearly two decades as a classroom teacher, so she knows what it takes to get and hold the attention of young learners. Fullbright, who oversees STEAM education for Oklahoma City Public Schools, focuses her efforts on engaging the whole child through a combination of science, technology, engineering, art and math.
“You’ve got to get the kids engaged, and you do that by offering them creative ways to learn,” said Fullbright. “In our STEAM classes, we teach collaboration, we teach communication, we teach critical thinking skills.”
District teachers are generating classroom interest and promoting hands-on learning with the help of Sphero BOLTs — robotic balls designed to help students learn the curriculum along with robotics and coding skills.
All OKCPS elementary students see a STEAM teacher on a regular basis in addition to their grade-level instructor, and they are equipped with iPads to help them operate the robots.
“It’s a more creative tool; it allows for more student choice in their learning and their creating,” said Fullbright, who works with 31 elementary schools and 12 middle schools as the OKCPS STEAM coordinator. “It’s reinforcing general education concepts, but they’re getting to do it with a robot or some other products that we have in the classroom.”
Robotics is one of the innovative ways the 34,000-student district has countered the negative effects of the pandemic, which began disrupting learning in early 2020.
“We had students who had to leave the classroom, go to at-home learning and of course that’s not the best learning environment for students to reach mastery of any skill,” said Fullbright. “I think just making up for lost time is what our teachers are really working on, meeting their students where they’re at, not necessarily grade-level wise, but where they need to be.”
Enhancing literacy through STEAM education
Critical to reading literacy are the early childhood years, when kids learn how letters make sounds, sounds make words and words make sentences.
“We do struggle with high illiteracy rates, especially in our state,” said Stephanie Hinton, OKCPS’s early childhood director. “We have really been focused on ensuring that our teachers have access to highquality training on the teaching of reading.”
Hinton works with teachers to ensure they know their progressions and where to start if “kiddos are below the expectation,” even when they enroll in school for the first time.
“Where do you start if their vocabulary isn’t what we expect for a typical 4-year-old?” asked Hinton. “And teaching those very practical skills that they can use in the classroom to build vocabulary, for example.”
Along those lines, the district has started an initiative with the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation called Read Across OKCPS, which provides reading challenges that are no longer limited to school breaks.
“Those sorts of little engaging activities tie into that, building children’s literacy rates,” said Hinton. “But it also builds in that attendance incentive: ‘Come to school, we’re doing these fun things to support your learning.’”
MCKINLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN NORMAN PARTICIPATE IN STEAM ACTIVITIES.
THE OKLAHOMA AVIATION ACADEMY IN NORMAN HELPS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR STEAM-BASED CAREERS IN AVIATION AND AEROSPACE.
BELLE ISLE ENTERPRISE MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS DISCUSS HOW TO CRAFT A SELF-PROPELLED ROCKET USING RECYCLED MATERIALS AS PART OF AN ENGINEERING UNIT IN SCIENCE CLASS.
STEAM principles are useful when teaching young students how to read, Fullbright said.
“STEAM is science, technology, engineering, art and math, and you have to be able to read to do all of those things, so we talk about the importance of reading,” explained Fullbright. “When they get a robot and they’re learning how to program a robot, they need to know how to read directions to assemble that robot. And then they need to have a little bit of background knowledge or figure out how to code, so then they’ve got to go have that reading instruction.”
Investing in the future
In Norman, there is a similar focus on cross-curricular learning — incorporating multiple academic disciplines into a single lesson or course — which STEAM principles provide.
“It’s our job at the elementary level to really help kids understand what they are capable of doing, the possibilities, what they believe they can do,” said Kristi Gray, director of Gifted and Talented and Advanced Placement programs for Norman Public Schools. “It’s our job to help them see all those possibilities that are out there and to help them make sure they believe they’re capable of doing any sort of career path they want.”
The Norman Public School Foundation recently donated $500,000 to equip new STEAM Labs for each of the district’s 17 elementary schools.
A local school bond issue approved by voters will fund construction of the labs. The foundation’s donation will cover the cost of curriculum, equipment and other learning tools.
“With this partnership between the school district and the foundation, we’re not just building labs, we’re building futures,” said Alesha Leemaster, the foundation’s executive director. “The Foundation Labs will ignite curiosity in our students, preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow.”
Another way the Norman school district is preparing older students to begin visualizing their futures is the Oklahoma Aviation Academy, which meets in portable buildings at the Max Westheimer Airport in Norman.
“Schools like this are encouraging kids to get involved in industry, to pick a passion at a younger age,” said Terry Adams, the academy’s director. “We’re a STEAM academy that’s themed around aviation and aerospace.“
Construction on a 113,000-square-foot facility that will hold 600 students is scheduled to begin in January. Currently, 240 high school students are taking classes.
“The biggest challenge is recruiting, creating your curriculum and your pathways, and then recruiting kids that want to be a part of that,” said Adams.
Reading literacy gains
Administrators from both school districts credit the emergence of STEAM education for “slow and steady” academic gains, particularly among young readers.
“When you’re trying to reach a goal it’s better to take small steps than (make) huge gains,” said Fullbright. “Sometimes it’s hard to see when you’re in the middle of the hard work what our principals and our teachers are doing. When we sit down and look at data, even though it might just be a one or two percentile gain, they’re still gains. So, I think we’re making progress on our reading scores. They’re slow and steady, and as you know, slow and steady wins the race.”
Editor’s note: This article marks the beginning of the series What’s Right with Our Schools , highlighting the innovative and inspiring programs shaping education in the Oklahoma City metro. Each installment will explore a different theme, showcasing how educators, administrators and communities are coming together to create meaningful opportunities for students.
Tim Willert is a freelance writer and adjunct instructor who previously worked as a reporter for The Oklahoman and as editor of The Norman Transcript . He lives in Norman with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children.
OKCPS SUPERINTENDENT DR. JAMIE POLK AND STUDENT LEADERSHIP COUNCIL MEMBER AND DOUGLASS HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR ROBYN SHIRLEY READ TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS AS PART OF READ ACROSS OKCPS DAY.
Local Family Fun Explore Black History Month in OKC
Year-round
learning opportunities for families
BY CHRISTINA MUSHI-BRUNT. PHOTOS PROVIDED.
Black History Month in Oklahoma City offers rich opportunities to honor the contributions of African Americans to history and culture — and that education can be extended all year long. From local art and educational exhibits to vibrant community events and historic landmarks, the city offers countless ways for families to learn about, connect with and celebrate Black culture.
Celebrate Oklahoma’s Black history
Most adults and school-aged children can easily name Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman as key figures in Black history. Some Oklahomans may also know Ralph Ellison, Clara Luper and Thurgood Marshall. But what about Anita Arnold, Tony Thunder and Willie Lusk?
While February marks Black History Month, honoring African Americans’ contributions to history and culture should extend throughout the year.
This year, challenge your family to make Black History Month last all year long. Oklahoma City is full of opportunities for your family to learn about Black history and culture in fun and meaningful ways. Start planning with these suggestions!
Arts & culture
The Oklahoma State Capitol Building & Museum is open yearround and features over 100 pieces of art. Spend time exploring how African Americans have contributed to city, state and national history. Art throughout the building highlights historical figures, including teacher and civil rights activist Clara Luper. Find a bust of Clara Luper on the first floor, and explore the work of OKC-based artist LaQuincey Reed, who created the piece, to learn more about Luper’s legacy.
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Did you know OKC is nationally known as a hub for street art? Many neighborhoods include murals that depict Black culture. Start on this issue’s front cover, which showcases OKC-native Tony Thunder’s Summer of Futures Past. Located in Northeast OKC on 23rd Street and N. Rhode Island Avenue, this vibrant mural depicts the joy of Black culture.
According to Thunder, rather than focusing on the history of the Black experience, this mural “represents the good times and celebrations we have now.”
SUMMER OF FUTURES PAST BY TONY THUNDER DEPICTS THE JOY OF BLACK CULTURE.
ON THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE OKLAHOMA STATE CAPITOL, FIND A BUST OF CLARA LUPER BY OKC-BASED ARTIST LAQUINCEY REED, AND LEARN MORE ABOUT LUPER’S LEGACY.
Our family has several favorite OKC murals. Among them is a three-panel mural on the Northeast OKC Homeland building, located at 625 NE 36th Street. Painted by Carlos Barboza, the murals are a tribute to Black heritage, connecting the past with the present.
At the Black Liberated Arts Center (BLAC) at 4500 N. Lincoln Blvd, explore Black art and music throughout the year. Executive Director Anita Arnold, a 2024 Oklahoma Hall of Fame inductee, founded the center to connect OKC to Black and African art and culture. BLAC houses an art gallery and gift shop filled with items that represent Black/African heritage. The Center also sponsors events throughout the year, including the Charlie Christian International Music Festival.
Educational experiences
The Ralph Ellison branch of the Metropolitan Library System offers valuable learning resources. Named in honor of the Oklahoma native and acclaimed writer, this library is home to the MLS’s Black History Collection. The collection includes books and other media that honor and celebrate Black heritage. Installed in 1975, the collection undergoes continual development. According to Assistant Library Manager Brittany Mays, the library also provides Black History Month Family Kits, which can be checked out for at-home learning.
ONE OF MUSHI-BRUNT’S FAVORITE MURALS IN OKC IS BY CARLOS BARBOZA AND LOCATED ON THE NORTHEAST OKC HOMELAND BUILDING.
THE RALPH ELLISON LIBRARY IS HOME TO THE MLS BLACK HISTORY COLLECTION.
Local Family Fun
The Oklahoma History Center’s Kerr-McGee Gallery houses the Realizing the Dream exhibit. This exhibit takes Black history beyond the textbook. Your family can be immersed in the lived experiences of Black Oklahomans through life-sized replicas of historical spaces. You can also learn more at home using the OHC’s African American Civil Rights Movement in Oklahoma activity pages at okhistory.org/learn/civilrights7
Visit the historic Freedom Center of Oklahoma City which was the site of NAACP Youth Council and served as a hub for civil rights activity for many years. Clara Luper served as the Youth Council’s sponsor. Currently, visitors can view the names and images of activists. See how many names you know and learn more about those you don’t.
The site will undergo a $25 million restoration to include the future Clara Luper Civil Rights Center. The 5-acre campus will include exhibition and programming areas, a café, welcome center and outdoor and events spaces.
At the Federal Judicial Learning Center and Museum in downtown OKC, your family can learn about pivotal Federal court cases, such as OKC Board of Education vs. Dowell, which was tried by the first African American Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall.
View artifacts and memorabilia of Black athletes who have been inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame located in Bricktown.
At the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, learn about the role Black soldiers (known as Buffalo Soldiers) played in the U.S. Army. During Black History Month, the museum’s Code of the West: Willie Lusk activity table is a great learning resource.
Celebrations & festivals
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be celebrated on Jan. 20 this year. Spend the day attending one of the many events held in OKC to honor the civil rights leader. Celebrate the African American experience with the sights and sounds of the annual MLK parade in downtown OKC
Mark your calendar for the annual Juneteenth on the East celebrations, scheduled for mid-June and held in OKC’s East End district. This family-friendly festival is a celebration of freedom and includes live music, dance performances, art, food and vendors.
Year-round resources
Explore even more places to celebrate Black history all year long with Visit OKC’s Insider’s Guide at visitokc.com/things-to-do/diverse-okc/ black-okc. Plus, find Black-owned restaurants in OKC at visitokc.com/ restaurants/black-owned-restaurants
Editor’s note: Christina Mushi-Brunt is a former professor turned freelance writer and public health research consultant. Christina, her husband and their three kids reside in Moore, where she is active in the education community.
SEE HOW MANY CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVISTS YOUR FAMILY RECOGNIZES AT THE FREEDOM CENTER OF OKLAHOMA CITY — THEN LEARN ABOUT THOSE YOU AREN’T FAMILIAR WITH.
THE ANNUAL JUNETEENTH ON THE EAST CELEBRATION IN OKC’S EAST END DISTRICT INCLUDES MUSIC, DANCE, ART, FOOD AND VENDORS.
Focus MOMS in MetroF mily’s
Enter MetroFamily’s Moms in Focus Contest
Celebrate the love of the moms and mother figures in your life
Submit photos Jan. 29 through Feb. 19.
• One-night stay at The Ellison, plus breakfast for two
• One-night stay at the Wyndham Hotel, plus breakfast for two
• Prizes from YMCA of Greater OKC, Curbside Flowers, Redrock Canyon Grill, Upper Crust, Hefner Grill, Mama Roja, Sweet Mimosa Day Spa, Chirps and Cheers, Cargo Room, Black Swan Boutique and more!
• Plus, everyone who submits an entry will receive half off the joining fee for any YMCA of Greater OKC location.
Get more info and enter beginning Jan. 29 at metrofamilymagazine.com/metro-moms-contest.
Not Just for Kids
Unique library classes & programs for grown-ups
BY MARISA MOHI. PHOTOS PROVIDED.
Whether through story times or fun STEM-based take-home kits, many parents are familiar with the free programs for kids offered by Metropolitan Library System. But MLS also has free resources and library classes for adults to help them build strong financial habits, get in shape, find their dream job and learn a new skill. These unique library programs for adults are available system-wide, and many can be accessed from the comfort of home.
Library classes for adults
MLS caters to all schedules and learning styles. Adults can access books and databases for self-guided learning, perfect for those with busy schedules. For those seeking in-person library classes for adults, MLS holds events at each branch.
Financial resources
If you’re looking for resources to learn how to be better with money, the library makes it easy to find them. The library has all the business and finance books you’ve been meaning to read to build good money habits.
“Our catalog automatically pulls in the NYT Bestsellers lists, and the list of bestselling business books is a great place to find new finance books,” said Janeal Walker, director of collection services and development.
Another way to find resources to help build good financial habits is through MLS’s Tailored Titles service. Through the system, patrons can share topics they’d like more information on and details about what they like to read, and a reading expert will create a personalized list. Tailored Titles can be used for any type of self-help, educational or fun reading materials.
“This is a great service if you need help planning your investment strategy for the upcoming year, filing 2024 taxes as a small business or building a family budget to save for buying a house in 2025, or any other financial milestone you may need to research,” said Walker.
To get your tailored list, simply fill out the reader survey at metrolibrary.org/discover/using-the-library/reader-services/tailoredtitles
For those looking for help with their investment strategy, access the Morning Star Investment Research Center easily from home or your local library. This database helps you make informed investment decisions and build good money habits by providing information on mutual funds, stocks, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds.
As tax season approaches, MLS helps patrons print tax forms or find the federal or state office needed to correctly file taxes. For more information, visit tax help resources at metrolibrary.org/explore/topic/ tax-help.
Health resources
Improving health and fitness is a popular New Year’s resolution, but with so many diet plans out there (and many of them costing significantly), it’s hard to know where to start.
MLS offers resources to cut through noisy sales pitches so you can hit the ground running. The A to Z Food America database (accessible via the library’s website) provides articles about the culture and history surrounding American food, as well as recipes to help you find new meals to try on your health journey.
In February, the Edmond Library will host a Diabetic Nutrition and Wellness Workshop to help patrons with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes manage their condition through food and exercise. Plus, MLS offers fitness classes. Check out Beginner’s Tai Chi at the Southern Oaks branch or Yoga and Meditation in Edmond.
Career resources
If you’re seeking a new career in the new year, the Blue Career database helps patrons navigate a list of skilled trades and connects them with employers and training materials.
If additional schooling is your next step, the Skillsurfer Learning Library and LearningExpress Library prepare you for college and graduate school entrance exams. Plus, the Del City Library helps patrons prepare for the High School Equivalency (HSE) exam. For details and to sign up, visit metrolibrary.org/event/high-schoolequivalency-classes-hse-419992.
LinkedIn Learning teaches valuable career-building skills in areas like CAD, coding, web design and video production. This database of thousands of online courses lets you learn in-demand skills from realworld industry experts. For those looking to level up their computer coding skills in person, a Web Developer Boot Camp with Fiero Learning at the Choctaw Library teaches CSS, Javascript and HTML.
Skills resources
The new year is a great time for self-improvement in any area of life, and MLS provides resources to help grown-ups develop new creative or life skills.
Home Improvement Source gives patrons user-friendly information to tackle home improvement projects. Creativebug lets you access on-demand arts and crafts video tutorials to knit a sweater or build a dollhouse. Hobbies & Crafts Source connects you to full-text articles from leading craft and hobby magazines.
If this is the year you’re committed to learning a second language, Mango Languages offers courses in more than 70 languages, each broken down into structured, bite-sized lessons. Plus, the Southern Oaks Library provides Introductory English as a Second Language in-person classes.
For hands-on learning, visit the MLS Studios makerspaces. From sewing to 3D printing to video production, these spaces empower patrons to create with specialty equipment in a collaborative environment. Record a podcast, try out an embroidery machine or test a Cricut before buying. MLS Studios equips patrons with the tools and staff to bring projects to life, and all that’s required is a library card.
Ready to learn more?
To see all the unique library programs for adults available:
• Visit metrolibrary.org, click “Find” and choose a topic under “research and learn.”
• Explore the events calendar based on age and topic. If there’s an event you’d like to see at your local library, you can request it at metrolibrary.org/contact-us/email
• Ask a librarian! Whether you’re looking for specific resources, need help navigating the library’s tools or want recommendations tailored to your goals, they are there to guide you every step of the way.
Editor’s note: Find this article with clickable links at metrofamilymagazine.com/library-classes-adults
DEVELOP IN YOUR CAREER, LEARN NEW HOBBIES AND EMBRACE WELLNESS WITH FREE RESOURCES FROM THE METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM.
LEARN SEWING, 3D PRINTING, BUTTON MAKING, VIDEO PRODUCTION AND MORE IN THE MLS STUDIOS MAKERSPACES.
Healing Through Education
How Bethany Children’s Health Center keeps patients on track academically
At Bethany Children’s Health Center, pediatric rehabilitation goes beyond physical healing to include academic growth and adaptive recreation for kids. Education isn’t put on hold for children who are recovering from traumatic injuries or managing complex medical needs. In fact, education is an integral part of the healing process.
The value of education in pediatric rehabilitation
From classroom learning to hands-on activities, children at Bethany Children’s thrive in an environment designed to support every aspect of their development. By integrating Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) with innovative enrichment programs, the center ensures young patients gain confidence and new skills.
Whether patients’ hospitalization timelines are a few weeks or several years, when patients stay engaged academically, they avoid falling behind in school while receiving life-changing care.
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SIMULATING REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES, LIKE TRANSFERRING IN AND OUT OF VEHICLES AND NAVIGATING A VARIETY OF SURFACES.
The education team at Bethany Children’s works tirelessly to design and implement services tailored to each child’s needs, keeping the hospital’s mission at heart: maximizing every child’s potential.
“Education services provide the resources patients need to succeed,” said Amber Samuel, a special education teacher. “Teachers at Bethany Children’s bridge the gap between the hospital and school.”
Thanks to a partnership with Bethany Public Schools, patients can complete assignments through an accredited online curriculum program during their stay. Teachers also evaluate and develop IEPs for students, ensuring a smooth transition when they are ready to go back to their home schools.
AJ’s journey back to the classroom
AJ, a patient at Bethany Children’s from age 7 to 15, made significant strides during his stay, including a key milestone: attending Bethany Public Schools in person.
“Riding the school bus and interacting with peers and teachers in new environments is invaluable,” said special education teacher Matt Harder. “It gives kids like AJ a fresh perspective and essential developmental opportunities.”
AJ’s time in public school helped prepare him for life beyond Bethany Children’s. Early in the 2024–25 school year, he was discharged, ready to continue his education back in his hometown. AJ was academically on track thanks to the support he received.
On the road to graduation
The Pediatric Medical Rehabilitation Unit (PMRU) at Bethany Children’s focuses on maintaining educational continuity for patients
from across the state. With an average stay of three weeks, missing school might not seem significant, but for young learners, even short interruptions can create challenges.
Austyn, a high school senior, was admitted to Bethany Children’s after a motor vehicle accident left him with a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures. After his initial recovery, Austyn began working with the hospital’s teachers to prepare for his return to school.
“The teachers helped Austyn develop realistic expectations and self-awareness tools to succeed when he returned for his senior year,” said his father, Mickey. “The guidance we received from Dr. Alexandra
BETHANY CHILDREN’S ADAPTED RECREATION AND FINE ARTS CENTER HELPS PREPARE PATIENTS FOR LIFE OUTSIDE THE HOSPITAL BY
Roth also helped us support Austyn at home.”
Thanks to the dedication of his care team and his own perseverance, Austyn rejoined his class at Chandler High School and graduated on time.
“Helping patients achieve these milestones is what drives me,” said Samuel. “Seeing a child write their name again, solve a math problem or use an assistive device brings so much joy.”
Enriching the healing process: adaptive recreation in action
At Bethany Children’s Health Center, recovery encompasses more than just medical care. The journey includes fostering creativity, fun and independence. The hospital’s Adapted Recreation and Fine Arts Center offers opportunities for patients of all abilities to participate in adaptive sports, performance arts and other enrichment activities.
“Kids here not only keep up with academics but also enjoy experiences like prom, summer fun days and more,” said special education teacher Jenny Howard. “These activities let them explore, socialize and thrive beyond the hospital units.”
More than just a place for fun, the center is a thoughtfully designed environment where children and teens with diverse abilities can safely practice essential life skills. This hands-on approach helps patients build confidence, develop independence and prepare for the next phase of their lives.
Developing realworld skills in a safe space
THE CENTER’S INDOOR RECREATION COURT WAS BUILT FOR SAFETY AND DURABILITY.
The Adapted Recreation and Fine Arts Center is integral to preparing patients for community re-entry after an accident or life-altering event. It serves children with complex medical needs, intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities by offering opportunities to engage in recreational and vocational activities.
The center features:
• A smart home equipped with cutting-edge assistive technologies
• A car, bus, café, retail store and concession stand to simulate real-world environments
• Spaces where patients can practice Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and master transfers in and out of vehicles
• Outdoor sidewalks, patios and other surfaces to improve mobility and navigation skills
These resources allow patients and families to tackle real-world challenges in a supportive, safe setting, helping them gain confidence for life outside Bethany Children’s. The center also offers recreational opportunities in spaces customized to meet every child’s needs.
Highlights include:
• An all-accessible multipurpose baseball field complete with a state-of-the-art scoreboard system
• An indoor recreation court built for safety and durability
• Adapted physical education classes and sports programs designed to engage children in a variety of fun activities
At Bethany Children’s, the focus is not just on recovery but on creating an environment where kids can grow, explore and thrive, proving that healing is about more than just physical health.
Preparing for life beyond the hospital
Programs like Pathways focus on life skills for teens with chronic health challenges and disabilities, offering vocational training, peer support and job placement resources.
“We want children of all abilities to grow and thrive while in our care,” said Becky Vogt, chief of education and rehabilitation.
“Meaningful activities that are fun and functional positively impact their overall well-being and outcomes.”
At Bethany Children’s Health Center, education is a vital part of helping children heal, thrive and rejoin their communities stronger than before.
To learn more, visit bethanychildrens.org
Editor’s note: Bethany Children’s Health Center provides pediatric primary care, behavioral health and other specialized medical and therapy services to children in Oklahoma. Learn more about Bethany Children’s planned expansion of outpatient services at bethanychildrens.org
Metro Library features:
• Multiple locations offer in-person help with school assignments.
• Online access to over two dozen educational databases.
Brainfuse HelpNow lets you learn online whenever and wherever you want, with expert help and resources for different subjects and skill levels. Customize your learning with live tutoring and plans focused on specific skills.
• SkillSurfer: A comprehensive library with practice tests and personalized learning plans for tests like SAT, ACT, GED, and more.
• Adult Learning Center: Provides high school equivalency prep, citizenship test prep, and careerenhancing skills.
• Writing Lab: Allows for live writing help or submission of papers for detailed feedback within 24 hours.
SAFETY STARTS WITH US
Keeping kids safe around traffic takes teamwork. As drivers, let’s commit to staying alert and driving responsibly. As parents, we can equip our children with the knowledge to navigate streets and sidewalks safely. Start the conversation early to ensure they’re prepared for bikes, crosswalks, and everything in between.
Dedicate time to talking to your child about safely interacting with traffic- Watch For Me OK can help. Download our educational materials and coloring sheets today. Together, we can build safer streets for all.
Free admission every second Saturday of the month
program featuring crafts, games & planting activities Summertime fun & themed activities every Thursday in June & July
Stay Connected Throughout the Year!
Scan the QR Code to sign up for the OHOF Connect e-newsletter for all the latest updates on programs.
program featuring crafts & pumpkin painting
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First Americans Museum (FAM) celebrates our shared national history through the collective stories of 39 Tribal Nations in Oklahoma today. Present this coupon to guest services at First Americans Museum
S
Don't forget to stop at FAM™Store & Thirty Nine Cafe '
Thirty Nine Cafe' serves soups and sandwiches and is brewing O-Gah-Pah coffee daily!
Inside FAM™Store, you will find an exclusive collection of products designed by Indigenous artists from the 39 Tribes of Oklahoma. By choosing to shop with us, you are supporting a non-profit organization, working artists, and Indigenous owned businesses.
The new Horizons District is home to the OKANA Resort & Waterpark and is anchored by the internationally acclaimed First Americans Museum.
Westminster School
Inspiring students to work hard, be curious, respect others and be resilient
Westminster graduates are confident, compassionate and connected people who think well, work hard and work well with others.
Westminster is an informal, child-centered school where children and teachers know each other well and respect each other as individuals. The school serves students in PreK(3) through 8th grade and offers an educational experience in which questions are encouraged, creativity and curiosity are nurtured and academic skills are developed.
Westminster students are inspired to try new things, celebrate their successes and value the lessons learned when they are not successful. Teachers create an encouraging environment in which students have the freedom to make decisions and learn to take responsibility for their decisions. The school believes strongly in the importance of a tolerant and diverse educational community and recognizes that the educational success of its students requires the trust and support of parents, students and teachers working together.
PreK3 Through 8th Grade Monday-Friday 9am-2pm
Infinity Generation is now enrolling for the Fall 2025-2026 school year. We are an approved accredited private school offering a parental tax credit for Pre-K3 through 8th grade. Small class sizes assure individual attention, so spaces are limited. Before and after school care available.
Quail Springs United Methodist Church
Mother’s Day Out, Preschool Threes, PreK and Kindergarten (meets state standards) with a certified early childhood educator.
EnrollOKC.org simplifies public school options for OKC families
Oklahoma City parents now have an easier way to navigate public school options. EnrollOKC.org, launched by nonprofit Fuel OKC, simplifies the enrollment process by offering a centralized website with detailed profiles of free charter and neighborhood schools, application links and a single enrollment deadline: February 21, 2025.
“Choosing the right school and keeping track of deadlines can be stressful for families,” said Brent Bushey, CEO of Fuel OKC. “EnrollOKC.org provides clear, accessible information to help families make informed decisions.”
Parents can find key details such as academic performance, school demographics and enrollment statistics in one place. For local parent ShaRee Wrice, the website has been a game-changer.
“My son is in first grade and very strong academically — I wanted to find the best
school that would challenge him to excel, but that information was hard to find,” said Price. “EnrollOKC made it easier to find the right fit for my child.”
Fuel OKC created EnrollOKC.org to help level the playing field for families in Oklahoma City.
“More than half of local families are assigned to schools with low academic proficiency, and many don’t have the resources to explore other options,” explained Bushey. “EnrollOKC.org is here to change that.”
The goal is simple: give every family the information they need to find the best school for their child.
Visit EnrollOKC.org to explore your free, public school options and apply for the 2025-26 school year by Feb. 21.
ODYSSEY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Transforming Education and Changing
Lives
Serving grades 6-12, Odyssey is pioneering a new vision for education that helps students pursue purpose and meaning through innovation, creativity, collaboration, travel, apprenticeships, intellectual inquiry and rich community.
Our graduating seniors have experienced a 100% college acceptance rate, with 97% at their top school
Learn about the OLA difference and how your teen can bene t by visiting our website. You can even sign your student up for a Shadow Day so they can experience the OLA difference.
An experiential school serving preschool to 5th grade that is building NEW classrooms in order to welcome additional students
If you’re looking for a school that feels like home, where your child is known, supported to take risks in their learning, and part of a loving community of friends, teachers, and large pasture animals, Keystone Adventure School and Farm is the perfect fit. Keystone is a place where children thrive in a nurturing environment that celebrates individuality and encourages growth.
Now celebrating 20 years of child-centered, play, art, and projectbased learning, Keystone is expanding with new classrooms to bring its distinctive approach to even more Oklahoma children. The school is dedicated to unlocking the potential of every child and fostering a diverse community of learners.
Keystone participates in the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit (PCTC) program, which recently expanded its funding to provide greater financial relief to families. Unlike many schools that raised tuition rates to absorb PCTC benefits, Keystone ensures that 100% of the tax credit is applied directly to families’ tuition, offering reductions ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 or more, depending on income. Keystone also continues to support existing scholarships for families in need, based on availability, to make its education accessible to as many families as possible.
Applications for the PCTC are due February 15th, but Keystone handles the entire process for families, making it simple and stress-free. Once submitted, applications can also be used for other eligible schools if needed.
At Keystone, learning is individualized to meet the emotional, social, physical, and academic needs of every child. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing students to grow at their own pace.
The school’s 15-acre campus, complete with a farm, garden, pond, and outdoor classrooms, provides opportunities for
children to connect with nature, fostering curiosity and hands-on discovery. Social and emotional development is at the heart of Keystone’s mission, creating a safe and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported.
We warmly invite you to schedule a tour and apply by January 15 to see firsthand how Keystone Adventure School and Farm can empower your child’s educational journey. Come experience the joy and wonder that make our children such happy learners. We guarantee your day will be brighter for it!
19201 Western Ave, Edmond 405-216-5400
keystoneadventureschoolandfarm.com
GEEK OUT!
ENJOY STEAM OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS THE METRO
STEAM
education is the future for our state and nation. Almost any discussion about education today includes the importance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) and the need to introduce these subjects to kids beginning at an early age. The metro abounds with STEAM opportunities for learning that can spark interest and launch a child in a direction that impacts them for a lifetime.
MetroFamily saw our largest crowds yet at our annual Geekapalooza STEAM Festival in 2024, with more than 1,000 people in attendance to enjoy hands-on STEAM family fun. Look for our 2025 event on Nov. 8 at Rose State College.
Thanks to the sponsors of Geekapalooza and this guide.
COLLEGE
HOST SPONSOR
STEAM Guide
American Fidelity STEAM Program - AF Teacher Fellowship
The AF Teacher Fellowship program provides teachers an opportunity to spend the summer with a corporate technology team learning about software development, enterprise information management or technical infrastructure projects. They can then take this experience back to their classrooms to help their students learn about and prepare for these careers.
Bloomfield Arts & Crafts Studio
610 S Kelly Ave, Ste Y, Edmond 405-373-6080
bloomfieldarts.com
Bloomfield Arts & Crafts Studio is a creative hub for kids in the OKC metro area, offering hands-on, STEAM-related classes, workshops and camps that help children build lifelong skills.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County
2915 N Classen Blvd, OKC 405-521-9292
bgcokc.org
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County allows kids and teens to explore their interests, develop employability skills and apply their knowledge to real-work experiences. From an early age, supportive club staff and mentors provide opportunities to explore careers and interests to prepare youth with employability skills for future success.
Engage Learning
131 Dean A Mcgee Ave, OKC 405-436-8323
engagelearning.org
Engage Learning empowers individuals of all backgrounds and abilities to excel in STEAM and maker learning through engaging learning experiences. Through hands-on projects, innovative curriculum and collaborative initiatives, the organization inspires a love for learning and helps every learner reach their full potential.
FIRST
(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) firstinspires.org
FIRST® is a youth-serving nonprofit advancing STEM education for students ages 4 to 18. FIRST® inspires young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in exciting, mentor-based research and robotics programs that build science, engineering and technology skills.
Gerrity Chapter, Air & Space Forces Association
1205 S Air Depot Blvd, Ste 215, Midwest City 405-819-2384 gerrityafa.org
Central Oklahoma Gerrity Chapter, Air & Space Forces Association supports STEAM education initiatives such as CyberPatriot and StellarXplorer that inspire students toward careers in cybersecurity or other science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines critical to our nation’s future.
Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma 6100 N Robinson, OKC 405-528-GIRL www.gswestok.org
Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma offers STEAM opportunities in a variety of ways. Girls entering kindergarten through high school have access to STEM kits, virtual Journeys, Badge-in-a-Box, hands-on events and more. Badge-in-a-Box programs allow girls to earn badges in coding, art, robotics and outdoor stewardship from the comfort of home.
iCode Edmond
2217 NW 178th St, Ste B, Edmond 405-757-0500
icodeschool.com/edmond111
iCode’s Signature Belt Program is an after-school program where students gain a comprehensive technical foundation and skills in logical thinking, creativity, teamwork and computational thinking, all vital in preparing kids for tomorrow’s tech-driven workforce.
Main Event Play Academy
1441 W Memorial Rd, OKC 405-751-4900
mainevent.com/events/school-events/ play-academy
Created in partnership with Big Thought and STEM.org, Play Academy is an accredited STEAM curriculum that combines real lessons with real fun. It’s all fun and games, plus a good bit of learning, because the more kids learn, the better they play.
Metropolitan Library System
300 Park Ave, OKC 405-231-8650 metrolibrary.org
The Metropolitan Library System provides a welcoming space for learning, exploration and connection across its 19 locations. They offer a variety of STEAM focused programs for all ages that include Power Hack! Coding Club, Science Explorers, STEAM Saturdays, take-home science kits available at certain locations and toddler and PreK STEAM.
Mid-Del Technology Center
1621 Maple Dr, Midwest City 405-739-1707 middeltech.com
Mid-Del Technology Center offers a variety of STEAM programs in fields such as aviation, media, healthcare and cyber security. Students learn the fundamentals of each industry, explore career options and gain skills in a handson learning environment.
STEAM Guide
OERB
The people of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas 500 NE 4th St, OKC 405-601-2715 oerb.com
Through voluntary funding from Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas, the OERB provides educators with free, hands-on curriculum aligned to state standards as well as all of the materials and equipment necessary to teach the lessons in their classrooms. The people of Oklahoma Oil & Natural Gas are passionate about investing in the future by providing quality science and math resources for teachers, students and parents.
OKANA
Resort & Indoor Waterpark
Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom
2800 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-795-0121 agclassroom.org/ok
A program of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Oklahoma State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom provides resources to Oklahoma teachers to familiarize students with Oklahoma’s food and fiber industry.
Oklahoma City Philharmonic
424 Colcord Dr, Ste B, OKC 405-232-7575
639 First Americans Blvd, OKC OKANAResort.com
OKANA is a world-class resort featuring an indoor waterpark and outdoor lagoon for guests of all ages. OKANA brings unforgettable entertainment, elevated hospitality and the ultimate relaxation and cultural experiences to Oklahoma City for visitors close to home and across the world. OKANA will open Feb. 21 and is now taking reservations.
Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute at UCO
100 N University Blvd, Edmond 405-974-3779 okaplus.org
OKA+ provides a series of STEAM project videos, created in collaboration with Boeing, on their YouTube Channel. The videos walk kids through various themes, STEAM careers and projects to expand their knowledge about opportunities in STEAM careers.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
620 N Harvey Ave, OKC 405-235-3313 memorialmuseum.com
The Inasmuch Uncover-Discover STEM Lab integrates STEM concepts with history, stimulating learning and connecting the past with the future. This academically-oriented experience is geared toward middle and high school students and teaches the lessons learned from the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building and its aftermath. Using large touch-screen tables, students work independently and then come together as a group to find solutions to the challenges, just as first responders to the Oklahoma City bombing worked together to save lives and investigate the crime.
okcphil.org
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic helps students learn and explore the beauty of music through a variety of educational opportunities including inclass programs, orchestral concerts and digital resources.
Oklahoma Forestry Services
2800 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-317-8322
forestry.ok.gov
Oklahoma Forestry Services’ mission is to conserve, enhance and protect Oklahoma’s forests and natural resources for present and future generations through active conservation management. Forestry Services is also the state’s primary agency responsible for wildland fire detection, suppression, prevention and investigation.
Oklahoma Geological Foundation
919-395-4958
oklahomageologicalfoundation.org
The Oklahoma Geological Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing earth science education in Oklahoma through providing resources, grants, scholarships and monetary awards to Oklahoma students, teachers and institutions.
free statewide field trips, hosts Homeschool Days, offers free family fun days with interactive art activities, sends teachers and artists into rural classrooms to provide free cultural programs and donates their published books to schools and libraries across Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Hall of Fame – Gaylord-Pickens Museum
OMRF
Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation
825 NE 13th St, OKC
405-271-6673
omrf.org
The Teen Leaders Program and Summer Scholars are public programs designed for aspiring young scientists. The Teen Leaders Program provides high school students with hands-on experiences in biomedical research, fostering critical thinking and teamwork skills. Summer Scholars offers undergraduate students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research alongside OMRF scientists, gaining invaluable insights and mentorship.
OSU CEAT K-12 STEM Programs
5202 N Richmond Hill Dr, Stillwater 405-894-4345
ceat.okstate.edu/stem
OSU’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology (CEAT) K-12 STEM has pioneered outreach training through fun and interactive STEM programs for students and teachers in grades K through 12. They provide STEM camps, family STEM events, teacher professional development, STEM on Call for teachers and students, STEM mentoring, STEM and OSU Visits, and other STEM support opportunities to schools and communities.
Revise Collective Microschool
1309 E Danforth Rd, Edmond 405-920-7456
ReviseCollective.com
Certified teachers at Revise Collective provide after-school STEAM classes from August through May, as well as summer camps in June and July. Students in grades 3 through 12 enjoy hands-on and creative learning experiences driven by STEAM.
Rose State College
6500 SE 15th St, OKC 405-733-7673
workforce.rose.edu
Rose State Kids College offers a variety of STEAM-based activities for students in kindergarten through 9th grade. Students can explore aerospace, rockets, meteorology, flying drones, 3D printing and much more. Sign up for summer classes beginning in March 2025.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Game Changers
THE FUTURE of our country and our world depends on game changing thinkers – technologists, engineers, geologists – who are determined to discover what’s next, with the understanding that hydrocarbons will be essential and irreplaceable for decades to come. Continental Resources will lead the way by producing clean, reliable, a ordable, abundant American energy. We are America’s Energy Champion.
STEAM Guide
SKELETONS:
Museum of Osteology
10301 S Sunnylane Rd, OKC 405-814-0006
skeletonmuseum.com
SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology’s education programs are available for all ages and are designed to engage and motivate children and students through differentiated instruction, student-centered activities and science exploration. All programs align with Oklahoma Academic Standards and STEM principles, and programs encourage students to use problem-solving skills, teamwork and communication; focus on natural and life science themes; and integrate a hands-on learning approach.
The University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy
1110 N Stonewall Ave, OKC 405-271-6598 pharmacy.ouhsc.edu
The University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy offers an early assurance program for high school seniors interested in a career in pharmacy. The program provides leadership development, pharmacy experience opportunities and dedicated advisors. Through the Future PharmeRx Day held each summer, students in grades 6 through 12 can learn about becoming a pharmacist through fun, interactive activities and games.
Exploring Oklahoma with Children
Our Day of Play at Jasmine Moran
Children’s Museum
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY TAYLOR BOLLINGER
SPONSORED BY
Looking for a fun, educational and memorable family outing?
The Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum in Seminole, Okla. is a top destination for children and parents alike.
From its engaging indoor exhibits, like Main Street and Explorer’s Hall, to its exciting outdoor features, including a zip line and a life-size maze, the museum offers endless opportunities for kids to explore, learn and grow through imaginative play.
Why your family must visit
As a homeschool parent, I am always on the lookout for educational outings my kids will enjoy. I want them to learn something and have fun doing it. It’s a huge bonus if I happen to enjoy it as well. Our recent trip to Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum checked each of these boxes and beyond.
During the hour-or-so drive from the metro to Seminole, I waxed nostalgic, regaling my first grader with stories of field trips I took to the museum as a child. Upon our arrival, it was immediately evident that though the museum maintained its most memorable attractions, it hasn’t stayed stagnant — and that’s something for a spot that’s been open since 1993.
It started when Melvin and Jasmine Moran visited a Michigan museum with their grandchildren, which ignited their dream to build a major children’s museum in Seminole, Okla. Three months later, the project was moving. The community support that staffed, funded and fueled the museum at the start is still going strong today.
Explore Main Street: a miniature world of imagination
As we entered the museum, we were greeted by friendly staff and a giant dinosaur skeleton. While one member of the museum’s team helped my 2-year-old practice his colors on an interactive light board, my 4- and 7-year-olds begged for a picture with the tyrannosaurus rex. Then, our adventure began.
Our first stop was Main Street, a miniature town complete with street signs and all the vocational opportunities a young mind might imagine. As we made our way through this section, my children became veterinarians, mechanics, construction workers and firefighters.
In the pretend classroom, my daughter examined samples under a microscope while my son nestled into the reading nook for a story. In the theater, they donned butterfly wings and other costumes, experimented with light and sound engineering, and took to the stage for an impromptu production.
TAKE TURNS BEING THE SHOPPER AND CASHIER IN MAIN STREET’S MINI-MART.
IN THE MAIN STREET EXHIBIT, KIDS CAN TRY OUT A VARIETY OF PROFESSIONS.
My personal favorite was the courtroom, with its jury box, judge’s bench, witness stand, counsel table and gallery. There, we studied the wall mural outlining the branches of government and practiced the Pledge of Allegiance – our social studies done for the day!
Even in a pretend world, the grocery shopping must be done. So, on to the mini-mart it was. Thankfully, the children took the lead, grabbing miniature carts and filling them with their favorite items from the shelves, frozen section and produce aisle. (Their selections reminded me why I am in charge of our real grocery list.)
At checkout, they took turns as the cashier, lining up items on the belt, assigning some rather shocking totals, accepting payment and administering change.
THE PLAY-BASED LEARNING EXPERIENCES AT JASMINE MORAN CHILDREN’S MUSEUM ENCOURAGE KIDS’
Exploring Oklahoma with Children
Interactive play in Explorer’s Hall
Then, it was time for camping. As we entered the museum’s newest exhibit, Explorer’s Hall, little jaws dropped. We entered via the aquarium featuring some of Oklahoma’s own underwater inhabi tants and were then met with a camp scene where children can cook over a faux fire, captain a boat, camp in a tent, climb a rock wall and unearth fossils.
Did I mention they can also co-pilot a plane? This exhibit left no sensory-learning stone unturned.
Opt for outdoor fun
The clock urged us on through the super-sized beehive, exercisescience section and hands-on hospital experience because we had a train to catch. The yellow locomotive circles the tracks every hour, on the hour. It was a highlight of our time in the museum’s outdoor exhibits, second only to the zip lines, which I’ll admit, I rode repeatedly.
Tonya Ricks, the museum’s associate director, said the outdoor features have undergone significant development over the past two years. And it shows. We made our way through a life-size maze, operated excavators, relaxed in the Sensory Garden and greeted the goats.
The educational value of children’s museums
In retrospect, the day was packed. We couldn’t have fit any more activity in, yet it felt seamless. Typically an in-and-out kind of gal, I wasn’t rushing to the door. The kids were reluctant to leave what is surely one of the most kid-friendly museums in Oklahoma.
I love the quote from psychologist Jean Piaget: “Play is the work of childhood.” This perspective is a great comfort as a homeschool mom who structures much of our days around play. And thankfully, it’s not just a platitude. It’s science.
Child development expert Dr. Karyn Purvis explains: “It takes approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain — unless it is done with play; in which case, it takes between 10 and 20 repetitions. [Play] disarms fear, builds connectedness and teaches social skills and competencies for life.”
Jasmine Moran Executive Director Eileen Castle echoed this idea as she shared the museum’s mission.
“At Jasmine Moran, we create opportunities for unstructured, imaginative play,” said Castle. “When there’s no step-by-step or right way to engage in a play space, it gives children the opening they need to explore the world around them in whatever way they choose. It encourages them to use their creativity, to take risks and grow.”
It was a joy to see this truest form of learning in action. As I ushered the kids to the car with promises that “We’ll come back soon!” and “Yes, I mean soon soon!,” I realized I wasn’t just placating them. I plan to place the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum in regular rotation as a homeschool field trip destination.
THE MUSEUM’S NEWLY-OPENED EXPLORER’S HALL FEATURES A CAMPING SCENE, ROCK WALL AND AIRPLANE.
At every turn, the museum’s slogan: “We believe in the power of play” was on full display. It was a touch of much-needed magic to watch my children in unencumbered exploration. They were doing the work of childhood. And I felt a little bit like a kid myself.
Plan your visit
For parents looking to share a similar experience with their children, my advice is: do it. But to be slightly more helpful, here are some know-before-you-go tips:
• The museum is closed on Mondays.
• At $12 for ages 3 to 59 and $11 for ages 60 and over, admission falls right at the rate I call “well worth it.” Little ones under three are free.
• The train ride is included with admission.
• While more prepared parents might enjoy a packed lunch at the museum’s indoor or outdoor tables, we enjoyed a meal from Tammy’s Cafe inside the museum.
Experience the magic of play at one of Oklahoma’s most beloved children’s museums. Plan your unforgettable family adventure at jasminemoran.com.
One less errand to run!
DON’T MISS THE OUTDOOR FUN, INCLUDING A NEW ZIP LINE, TRAIN, EXCAVATORS, SENSORY GARDEN AND PETTING ZOO.
I thought it might feel intimidating to visit the Capitol with kids, but I was pleasantly surprised at how welcomed and included my kids felt. Everyone we encountered, from security to the gift store staff, seemed delighted to see us enjoying the space. As Amanda Harmer with the Oklahoma Arts Council explained to us: ‘This is the people’s house, we are all welcome. Everybody can find their story in the Capitol.’
Erin Page shares her family’s experience touring the Oklahoma State Capitol to discover its stunning art, rich history and welcoming atmosphere. Get a list of what to see on your visit, what to know before you go and additional learning opportunities for kids and families here.
Erin Page is the editorial and marketing director of MetroFamily, and she and her spouse live in the heart of Oklahoma City with their three kids. Follow her family’s adventures @metrofamilyokc.
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