NC Museum of History

I am continually amazed how much museums have to offer teachers and the education field.  I have visited a handful of museums in the Raleigh area as a patron, but since starting at Meredith my eyes have been opened to how much they will be an asset to me as an educator.  I have started exploring various museums/aquariums/planetariums and their websites -- there is so much!  From virtual field trips to online exhibits to resources, we can gain a lot from their resources!

Our field trip to the NC Museum of History was very interesting.  I enjoyed learning about all of the programs they offer as well as see some of the museum exhibits.  I especially loved the Thomas Day exhibit.  I wish that exhibit would never leave -- but I know it is important to cycle the exhibits through.  I had never heard of Thomas Day and just thought his story was so interesting!  A free man of color who not only ran his own (successful!) business, but owned land, hand apprentices, and did this all in the south where slavery was the norm!  I want to learn more about him, his life and his business.  It definitely piqued my interest.  When can I go back? :-)

I will admit that I worry about taking young students to museums.  Many times exhibits at museums are heavy on the reading... and sometimes looking at pictures and/or pieces with a no hands-on approach.  Little ones love to use their hands!  How do you keep them engaged?  But after our visit, I was impressed with how much the museum staff thought about that and worked to create not only interactive exhibits but also activities that can be picked up and used as the children wander through the exhibits.  Specifically I am thinking of the Fred's Finds and Detective activity at the Thomas Day exhibit.  As a teacher, I would definitely consider printing the Fred's Finds out, and using the Detective Activity while my students were at the museum.

This was a great experience and I am so glad that we were able to go!