TAMPA – When the older kids head back to school, the littlest learners take center stage at the Glazer Children’s Museum with Toddler Takeover, a three-week celebration designed just for children ages 5 and under.
Running Aug. 11-31, this programming empowers toddlers to climb, crawl, wiggle and explore in a museum made just for them.
From themed sensory activities and storytimes to community resource guests and character visits, Toddler Takeover offers intentional play opportunities that support early childhood development while giving families a fun experience.
CRAFTS & DAILY THEMES
Toddlers can strengthen fine and gross motor skills through colorful crafts and engaging daily activities.
MakeSpace Crafts:
Little hands get creative at MakeSpace stations where toddlers can cut, glue, draw and build using safe materials. Activities include:
- Rainbow hair self-portraits using pipe cleaners and beads.
- Pom-pom rainbow art with glue.
- Pokey pool noodle sculptures with everyday items.
- Cutting colorful construction paper into shapes.
Daily Themes:
Each day brings new movement-based adventures:
- Water Wednesdays: Splash and play with extra toys in KidsPort.
- Funky Fridays: Dance and groove during music and movement storytimes.
“Toddler Takeover is all about creating space for our youngest learners to explore, play and grow at their own pace,” said Sarah Cole, museum president and CEO. “Play isn’t just fun, it’s fundamental. At this stage of development, every squish of slime or wiggle to music helps build critical motor, sensory and social skills that set the foundation for lifelong learning.”
SPECIAL GUESTS & ACTIVITIES
Gabby’s Dollhouse MEOWseum Discovery Days
Meet beloved costumed character Gabby from “Gabby’s Dollhouse”
- Aug. 16 & 17
Reservations are required. Included with general admission.
Sensory Studio (10 a.m.-noon):
Hands-on, messy play designed to stimulate the senses:
- Aug. 19: Splish Splash Bash – colored water, bubble foam and water beads
- Aug. 26: Ooey Gooey Sensory – enhanced slime, oobleck and shaving cream
WEDU Storytimes (11–11:30 a.m.):
Enjoy themed storytimes and crafts with WEDU:
- Aug. 19: “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Eric Carle
- Aug. 26: “Alphabet Mystery” by Audrey Wood
Early Childhood Council:
Learn about Help Me Grow developmental screenings:
- Aug. 14 & 21 (11 a.m.-1 p.m.): Info and pre-registration for screenings
- Aug. 25 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.): On-site screenings for registered families
Early Learning Coalition:
- Aug. 25 (10 a.m.–1 p.m.): VPK enrollment information available on-site
Be Like Blippi Week
- Aug. 24 to 31: Get curious like Blippi with themed activities that encourage discovery, play, and imagination.
Visit GlazerMuseum.org to learn more or reserve tickets.
