Are you looking for a fun and educational activity for your family? A museum is the perfect place to engage your child’s mind with creative and problem-solving activities. Whether it is art, history, or science, a museum can have a lasting effect on a child’s development. In fact, studies have shown children who visited a museum during kindergarten had higher achievement scores in reading, mathematics, and science in third grade than children who did not.
Conveniently located in Victory Park just off I-5, the Haggin Museum offers visitors a glimpse into San Joaquin County’s past, a beautiful collection of 19th and 20th century fine art, as well as the world’s largest museum display of artwork by 20th century illustrator J.C. Leyendecker. Beyond its displays, the Haggin offers an array of self-guided activities, monthly educational craft event for families, and other additional family-focused events throughout the year.
Image Credit: Family viewing the Haggin Museum's Toy Shop Display
A variety of self-guided activities are available to guests throughout the museum. The Haggin’s scavenger hunts—located in the Storefronts Gallery—are a fun activity to do with your family. There are three different versions to choose from so each visit gives guests a new experience. The museum’s self-guided Wellness Tours are designed to facilitate viewing the museum’s art & history collection through the lens of emotions one may be experiencing, or striving for, during their visit. Each stop along the tour prompts the visitor to dig deeper and reflect upon the art or artifact and themselves. Occasionally, the Haggin provides gallery activities such as an I-spy or a coloring page designed to enhance the temporary exhibitions on display.
Additionally, many free activities are available on Haggin’s website on the Visit page or the Education/Resources page. Included in those downloads are coloring pages, museum treasure hunts, exhibition-related activities, as well as 2nd Saturday of Families at Home videos featuring crafting activities for the whole family to enjoy at home.
Image Credit: Families participating in activities at the Haggin Museum.
On the 2nd Saturday of each month from 1 – 2:30 PM, the museum holds a hands-on event for families with children ages 5-12. The 2nd Saturdays for Families events include activities such as art projects, interactive programs, and museum-wide events. Reservations are not required, and seating is available on a first come, first served basis. The museum supplies all materials and activities are included with regular museum admission. Visit the Haggin’s Event page to see the schedule of Saturday programming.
To find out more about the Haggin Museum and its programs, exhibitions, and family events, visit hagginmuseum.org.
