In order to connect families with our current classroom curriculum theme of “Museum,” Richmond Early Reading First and VCU Head Start partnered with the Children's Museum of Richmond to provide an evening of family fun.
The Children's Museum offered to close their doors to the public at 5 p.m. giving an opportunity for VCU Head Start families to enjoy a quality read-aloud, followed by an art extension and free exploration of the Museum.
Participants enjoyed the rollicking, rhyming story of The Magic Hat, by Mem Fox. Family members of all ages were inspired to create their own magic hats.
“Seymour” the popular Museum Dinosaur enjoyed leading families from room to room throughout the evening.
A total of 180 people attended the event, including families, teachers, directors and staff. This truly became a community effort as local businesses like Ukrops, Chick-Fil-A, Krispy Kreme, and K-Mart donated food items for refreshments.
Each family received a bag which included resources of important early reading, writing and conversation activities to use with preschoolers at home. Parents were given a copy of A Child Becomes a Reader. Also included in the bag were an art activity, art supplies, a Richmond Public Library family brochure, a Chick-Fil-A coupon, a Krispy Kreme valentine coupon, and a free family pass to the Children’s Museum.
In keeping with the principles of the Children’s Museum of Richmond, this family event enabled all participants to see more, do more and be more!