Family Programs

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

A mother looks at her child through a magnifying glass in a classroom with tables and stools. — A mother looks at her child through a magnifying glass during a Family Program at the museum. Smithsonian image.

As a public health precaution, the Smithsonian is postponing or cancelling all large public events, programming and gatherings through May 3. Please consult our calendar of events, museum websites, and si.edu for the latest updates. We appreciate your understanding.

Make us a part of your family fun! During our programs, families learn together about nature, science, culture and museum collections in interactive, playful, and creative ways.

Monthly Family Program Series

A woman sitting on the floor next to a word map reads a book to six children sitting in front of her.

The World & Me

Story time with a science twist! Every second Saturday of the month, families discover the natural and cultural world and their place in it. Museum educators will lead a program that combines a book reading, create-and-take activities, and a chance to look more closely at the museum’s collections. These programs are designed for families with children ages 3 to 8. Advanced registration is recommended to reserve your spot in this program, which allows your family to use our express entry line to avoid lengthy waits to enter the building. The reservation fee is $2 per person. Children ages 2 and under are free.

What happens during a "World & Me" program?

10:30 – 11:00 a.m. – Free exploration of hands-on stations
11:00 – 11:30 a.m. – Book reading
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Craft activity

Upcoming Programs

Saturday, March 21, 2020 – Bones, Bones, Animal Bones - POSTPONED:
For this program, families will explore bones and skeletons. After a book reading of "Bone by Bone: Comparing Animal Skeletons," by Sara Levine, participants will investigate what skeletons can tell us about how different animals (including humans!) live and move. After the program, participants can continue their exploration of this topic in the Bone Hall located on the second floor.
- For those of you who have already reserved a space, ticket costs will be refunded to your original payment method through Etix.
Saturday, April 11, 2020 – Prehistoric Sea Monsters - POSTPONED:
For this program, families will explore the discovery of mosasaurs, sharks, and fish fossils in Angola, Africa. After a book reading of "Tylosaurus," by Gerry Bailey, participants will sift for and identify fossils to learn more about how paleontologists make discoveries about animals that lived long ago and are no longer alive today.
- For those of you who have already reserved a space, ticket costs will be refunded to your original payment method through Etix.

Family Days

Discover the natural and cultural world and your place in it during Family Days at NMNH, happening throughout the year. Visitors of all ages get the chance to connect to natural history topics through interactive activities, crafts, demonstrations and conversations with scientists.