9 Ways to Explore & Learn Right Here, At Home
At a time when social distancing and staying home as much as possible has become essential, many of us have had to adjust to working remotely while also coordinating at-home learning activities for our kiddos.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to explore and discover new things from the comfort of your own hometown.
The following is list of activities and resources offered by area attractions:
1. MACNIDER ART MUSEUM
The MacNider Art Museum is offering a variety of activities and learning opportunities. Like and follow them on Facebook to keep up with weekly challenges, art talks, free downloads and more!
2. THE MUSIC MAN SQUARE
On a “normal” Thursday, families gather together at The Music Man Square for weekly “Kids Make Music Classes.” Because we’re all trying to stay healthy at home, the classes are now hosted on Facebook!
3. TAKE & PAINT POTTERY
Paint your own pottery is a great stress reducer and fun for all ages! Market 124 offers Take & Paint Pottery Kits complete with brushes, paint and pottery. Get yours here.
4. DIY BRACELET MAKING
Test your skills at paper bead rolling and make your own bracelets out of cereal box beads and clay beads straight from Haiti. Adult and child kits are available from My Fair Trade. Dig deeper by learning about the artisan behind the beads, the country they live in, and/or Fair Trade Principals.
5. SURF BALLROOM MUSIC ENRICHMENT CENTER
Dedicated to providing engaging, hands on, lifelong learning opportunities to students of all ages, the Surf Ballroom Music Enrichment Center offers a variety of programming. While in-person classes aren’t currently available, great music education and activities are being shared regularly on the center’s Facebook page.
Of course, the great outdoors offers a great environment for learning, as well. Whether in your own backyard or at a local park, it is okay and possible to practice safe social distancing outside. Getting outdoors is essential for your mental health.
6. GARDENING & COOKING CLASS
Gardening is a great at-home activity, and a form of exercise. Growing fresh fruits and vegetables for your family to eat can be fun, educational, and healthy, too! Follow along with Healthy Harvest of North Iowa for virtual workshops, cooking classes, and more!
7. OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Get outdoors and practice your photography skills. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the River City Sculptures on Parade or the Prairie School Architectural Tour. Capture and share photos or sketch your favorite sculpture or architectural masterpiece.
8. LIME CREEK NATURE CENTER
With over nine miles of trails, the Lime Creek Nature Center is a great spot for families to get out and explore. Grab your binoculars (and camera) and take in the fresh air and sunshine while discovering various species of trees, plants, flowers, birds and wildlife. While the learning center is currently closed, a virtual tour, courtesy of Lisa Grouette, is available.
9. CANNONBALL 457
Outdoor exhibits at the Cannonball 457 tell the story of the last remaining Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway steam locomotive – No. 457, the “Cannonball”. Learn about local railroad history, the Orphan Train, and more.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ENTERTAINMENT:
99 Iowa Parks Outdoor Family Fun Guide
Free online learning resources
Virtual Tours of National Museums & Attractions
Broadway Plays and Musicals you can watch from home
