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, exercise- science 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 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. 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. “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.
60 Learning Guide
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