Louisiana Children's Museum turns 40 with free admission and events
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The Louisiana Children's Museum has indoor and outdoor play space. Photo: Louisiana Children's Museum
The Louisiana Children's Museum is exploring new ways to stay relevant as it celebrates 40 years in New Orleans.
Why it matters: Kids typically age out of children's museums around 8 or 9 and then transition to a city's science museum, says CEO Tifferney White. New Orleans doesn't have that option.
The big picture: Parents keep requesting more options for older children, she says, so the museum is piloting a teen mentoring program, funded by the Lilly Endowment.
- The museum is in the second year of the pilot. About 500 teens will participate over a three-year period, learning presentation and workforce skills while building confidence and character.
- "It's so awesome to have the teens in the building because they just add a different level of energy," White says.
Zoom out: The campus in New Orleans City Park more than doubled the museum's footprint compared to its longtime Julia Street location.
- It's given the museum freedom to experiment with events, programming and exhibits, White says.
- Examples: Mud Fest, a festival designed for children. Kindergarten Kickoff, which familiarizes youngsters with routines like boarding a bus and carrying a lunch tray.
Coming soon: The museum is opening an outdoor classroom under the oak trees in the backyard, she says.
- It's also working out the kinks on its floating classroom before opening it to the public.
What's next: The museum will throw an '80s-themed birthday party Saturday with free cake, throwback music and retro activities.
- There's a teen takeover from 3pm to 5pm with a DJ, '80s lawn games and crafts.
- Admission is free all day, thanks to the Saints and Pelicans. Register for a free ticket.
