The Staten Island Children’s Museum

Hours of Operation

Wednesday through Sunday- 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Quiet Times

Weekday afternoons after 1:00 pm are quieter than mornings

Accessibility

Most components of all exhibitions are wheelchair accessible

Plan a visit to The Staten Island Children’s Museum. Exciting exhibits and hands-on learning experiences await your little ones.

Address

Tysen Street, New York, 10301

Get Directions

Phone

(718) 273-2060

Getting There

Take Clove Road six traffic lights to Bard Avenue. Turn right on Bard Avenue and follow to the end (Richmond Terrace). Turn right on Richmond Terrace and go three blocks to Tysen Street. Turn Right on Tysen and go one block to Fillmore Street.

Address

Tysen Street, New York, 10301

Get Directions

The Staten Island Children’s Museum is a delightful and educational destination for families and young children located on Staten Island, New York. Established in 1976, it has been inspiring young minds and fostering creativity for decades. This overview will provide you with insights into the museum’s history, exhibits, educational mission, and its importance as a community resource.

History

The Staten Island Children’s Museum, often referred to as “SICM,” was founded with the goal of providing an enriching and interactive learning experience for children in the Staten Island community. It started in a small storefront in St. George, Staten Island, and has since grown into a well-established institution dedicated to education and play.

Mission and Educational Focus

The museum’s mission is to nurture the curiosity and creativity of children by providing them with hands-on, interactive exhibits and programs that encourage learning through play. SICM believes that children learn best when they are actively engaged in exploring the world around them. As such, the museum’s exhibits are designed to be both fun and educational, fostering a love for learning from an early age.

Exhibits and Highlights

SICM offers a diverse range of exhibits and activities that cater to children’s interests and developmental stages. Here are some of the notable exhibits and highlights:

  1. Portia’s Playhouse

    A vibrant space where young children can engage in imaginative and dramatic play, complete with costumes and props.

  2. Big Games

    An oversized board game area where kids can challenge each other and exercise their strategic thinking.

  3. Block Harbor

    It is an interactive exhibit that encourages creativity and problem-solving through building with blocks and other construction materials.

  4. Lizards and Frogs

    This exhibit allows children to observe and learn about various species of lizards and frogs in a safe and controlled environment.

  5. Sensory Room

    Designed for children with sensory sensitivities, this room provides a calming and stimulating space where kids can explore through touch, sound, and visual experiences.

  6. Sea of Boats

    A water play area where children can experiment with the principles of buoyancy and water flow by constructing and launching boats.

  7. Green Living Room

    This exhibit promotes environmental awareness by teaching kids about recycling, gardening, and sustainable living practices.

  8. Bug Station

    A hands-on area where children can interact with live insects, learning about their fascinating biology and importance in the ecosystem.

 

Educational Programs and Events

The Staten Island Children’s Museum offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. These include workshops, art classes, science demonstrations, storytelling sessions, and more. The museum often collaborates with local schools and organizations to provide valuable educational experiences for children.

Community Engagement

SICM is deeply involved in the Staten Island community, serving as a valuable resource for families and schools. It hosts field trips, summer camps, and special events that promote learning and creativity among young people. The museum also actively participates in community outreach, bringing educational programs to underserved areas.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The museum is committed to accessibility and inclusivity. It provides accommodations for children with disabilities and sensory sensitivities, ensuring that all children can enjoy the exhibits and activities. Additionally, it offers resources for parents and caregivers to support their children’s learning and development.

Supporting Early Childhood Development

The Staten Island Children’s Museum recognizes the importance of early childhood education and aims to support children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Through play-based learning, it fosters skills such as problem-solving, creativity, communication, and critical thinking.

Location and Visitor Information

The museum is conveniently located in the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden complex on Staten Island. It is easily accessible by public transportation and provides ample parking for visitors. The museum’s staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring a welcoming and educational experience for all.

 

Kids of All Ages Are Welcome

In conclusion, the Staten Island Children’s Museum is a vital institution dedicated to nurturing young minds and promoting interactive learning through play. With its engaging exhibits, educational programs, and commitment to inclusivity, it has become a beloved resource for families and educators in Staten Island and beyond. SICM’s role in early childhood education and its impact on the community make it a cherished asset for fostering curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning in children.

  • Join us on an exciting journey of exploration, creativity, and hands-on discovery.
  • Spark your child’s curiosity and imagination with our engaging exhibits and educational programs.
  • Plan your visit now for a day filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
  • Adventure awaits – come play and learn with us at The Staten Island Children’s Museum!
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Frequently Asked Questions

Nursing is welcomed anywhere in the Museum. There is a private nursing area in the Community Gallery exhibit located on the lower level near Sea of Boats.

With the exception of service animals, animals are not permitted in the Museum.

Food can be eaten in our Snack Zone Café and in designated Snack Spots.  Non-alcoholic drinks in resealable bottles are permitted. There are two water bottle refill stations available in the building, but no water fountains. There are picnic tables available outside.

Restrooms are located on the C Level near Block Harbor, the 2nd Level near the Walk-In Workshop as well as on the Lower Level (LL) near the Community Gallery.