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KidScape at the Johnson County Museum

KidScape-A Johnson County Museum Exhibit

6305 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KSwww.JoCoMuseum.org  

Hot Tips

    Kansas City winter weather typically makes it uncomfortable to take a stroll down a city street. At the Johnson County Museum, you and your children can take a stroll any time of year at KidScape, a “kid-sized suburban streetscape.” Read on to make the most of your free visit.

Before You Go

    Jennifer Crane, the museum’s curator of education, suggests asking children what they’d expect to find in a community. Further the discussion by asking them what places and services are wants, such as theaters, versus needs, such as a hospital. Introduce vocabulary like “urban,” “suburban” and “rural.” Richard Scarry’s books are great for introducing little ones to the new concepts.

While You’re There

    Let your children lead the way and watch as they help bring the museum exhibits to life. They’ll play in the park, make jewelry in the boutique and dress up as community helpers in City Hall, plus much more. Encourage them to put on a show for you in the theater. Costumes and props abound, and the kids control the lights and the red velvet curtain. Tired adults will get to rest in one of four plush theater seats while watching childhood magic unfold. Then take one more walk down the “street” before heading home.

When You Get Home

    Once you’re home, ask your children what they’d like to be when they grow up. Perhaps they’d like to visit a real bookstore or theater soon. Plan a trip together. Ask them what they think community life will be like when they are the same age as you. Maybe they’d like to write or draw a story about their museum visit. Finally, if this winter is like last winter and it becomes too cold to venture onto the street, real or otherwise, read our “Cabin Fever Buster Ideas” for some surefire ways to keep children busy in Kansas City.

Elizabeth Welter lives in Olathe where her children frequently beg her to take them to the Johnson County Museum.

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