1. family and parenting
2. children
3. daycare and preschool

Children’s Museum
of Southeastern Connecticut
ere dl iesn’cousveumeorfiSeoustheaa re made & fun just happens! 12-13
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Volume 20 Issue 2
W i nt
Charting a New Course
— Letter from Peter Claffey, Executive Director
M
y hope for the Museum is to continue to be a resource
within the community with a focus on the needs,
strengths, and opportunities in the community. The
Museum is not only a place for children to come and learn, but
also a place that provides educational opportunities for parents
and children of varying ages. We need to adapt to changing environments and early childhood educational practices to provide
experiences that are relevant and become a place where technology exists hand-in-hand with exhibits — not as a stand-alone kiosk
but integrated with interactive exhibits. We will provide content that
is dynamic and layered so that a
visit begins not at the door of
the museum but before the
guest has left their house and
continues after they arrive
back home. These changes
will not occur overnight, but I
hope to work with the community
to create a road map for the Museum
as it begins to chart a course forward. It is my goal to have the Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut join in the nationwide
museum movement to become a strong community
resource for early childhood education.
My immediate goal is to begin an evaluation of programs, exhibits, and other museum offerings to make sure
they are on mission and financially stable. Once the evaluation process is complete, we will develop a plan for the
to
me
ca
o
future that is in keeping with the changing needs of chilThanks to everyone wh
dren and families as the museum enters into the technoloter
ns
the Haunted Garden & Mo
gy age. It is my goal to provide an experience that is both
weekShindig during the second
rich with classical exhibit concepts while intermingling
r best
technology and immersive learning environments. This
end in October. This was ou
dly
en
-fri
experience is something that has to be developed in colyear yet with a sensory
laboration with other museums, our community partners,
tivi
ac
d
hour to kick things off an
and our members, to allow us to provide an experience
enings. Visitors came
ties Friday and Saturday ev
that is developed and governed by the real needs of our
ky Swamp,
Witches’ Kitchen, the Spoo
most important visitors — the children.
in costume and enjoyed the
or! The weekend conflo
e
nc
da
p
ma
ate
pir
r
ou
My general philosophy on education in a museum is
crafts, snacks and
pirates from Hartthe
en
wh
t
en
that
it is an extension of the classroom, serving as an
ev
ay
nd
Su
y
cluded with our all da
,
ow
sh
w
ne
ir
alternative
setting for learning for the youngest visitors.
the
m
rformed songs fro
ford Children’s Theatre pe
The type of learning that takes place at the museum is
fle, treasure
Visitors enjoyed a pirate raf
often indirect, where children are unaware that they are
“How I Became A Pirate”.
ufacts in addition to the reg
ate
pir
d
an
g
kin
ma
p
learning. It is the child’s perception that they are just out
ma
hunt, treasure
t!
en
in a new, unique, and dynamic environment, playing. As
Ktacular ev
lar schedule. What a SPOO
Mr. Fred Rogers, a forerunner in early childhood education, said, “Play is often
(Continues on next page)
THANKS, Matey!
Board of Trustees
Carla Barone, President
Holly Cheeseman, Vice President
Art Tanner, Treasurer
Amy Drowne, Secretary
Susan Hafler
Victoria Mueller
Catherine O’Brien
Museum Staff
Peter Claffey
Executive Director
Magda Waller
Director of Guest Services
Marjorie Collins-DellaRocco
Education Coordinator
Barbara Kingsland
Marketing Coordinator
Julie Clements-Reagan
Graphic Design Coordinator
John Schweizer
Facilities Associate
Adrienne Deck
Museum Educator
Donna Dione
Museum Educator
Sarah Jolly-Ballantine
Museum Educator/Visitor Services
Anna Sauve
Museum Educator
Linda Raffa
Administrative Assistant
Janine Cone
Visitor Services Associate
Deb Weller
Bookkeeping
Address:
409 Main Street
Niantic, CT 06357
Phone: 860-691-1111
Fax: 860-691-1194
Website:
childrensmuseumsect.org
Follow along at:
/childrensmuseumsect
@cmsect
/cmsect
Charting a New Course
(From previous page)
talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.
But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the
work of childhood.” It is through play that we impart
learning to our visitors and begin to create those early
learning experiences. Through those experiences, we
can help children become life-long learners. The museum is a place where boundaries are broken down and
imagination can build new worlds through exploring, tinkering, experimenting, and creating. The museum experience should also provide joint educational opportunities
for children, parents, and the entire family to work together on activities and in programs. Programs must provide an experience that is hands-on and educational that ties in to the core values of the Museum, and provide in-depth educational content
and deeper exploration of informal learning.
My background in museums is a 16-year journey through the museum experience. Most
recently I worked at the Children’s Museum in West Hartford as director of the Facilities and Exhibits
Department. I also served as Director of Visitor Services. While there, I spearheaded the installation
of seven traveling exhibits and designed and oversaw the installation of several other exhibits and
components. I have worked in every facet of a museum: I have designed exhibits, written educational content, developed educational programs, and managed the front-end. It is the culmination
of my background and successful projects and programs that I feel is going to propel this museum
forward. I hold a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Central Connecticut State University in business
management, and currently live in Plainville, CT. As a child, I spent part of my summers at Black
Point Beach in Niantic. Now, as an adult, I am very pleased to be back in the community and at the
helm of the Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut.
— Peter Claffey, Executive Director
Family Activity
Game-Day Noise Makers
Here’s an idea to have fun at parades or parties, or to help you support your favorite team.
You need:
• Recycled plastic water bottle with label removed and bottle completely dry
• White rice
• White beans (optional)
• Food coloring (think team colors)
• Paper, scissors, marker
• Zip-top plastic bags, cookie sheets lined with wax paper, funnel
Scoop rice into zip-top plastic bags and add several drops of one
food coloring. Zip closed and let little hands knead the bag until rice
is completely colored. Spread onto lined cookie sheet to dry. Repeat
with second color. After rice is completely dry, use funnel (or paper
cone) to layer one color, white beans, then second color. Close the
bottle: a drop of hot glue is optional here to make sure it stays closed.
Create and decorate a label (this is a good place for a team name)
and tape around your bottle. Shake away!
Descriptions of Educational Programs
NEW! family workshops:
StarLab
Sun., Jan. 13. 3PM
$
8/family
Maple
Sugaring
Sun., Feb. 10. 3PM
Kite Making
Sun., Mar. 10. 3PM
Sensory-Friendly Times*:
Jan. 6, 10-11:30 AM. & Mar. 15, 6-7:30 PM.
* Sponsored by: Chamber of Commerce Eastern CT. Call to register.
BABY SIGN & PLAY
This class offers an opportunity for mom/caregiver and baby to get out of
the house and interact with others, focusing on simple toys, play/baby
signs, and new friends. It is also a chance for moms to meet other moms
and share the experience of raising baby. Activities appropriate for children who are having their first group experience and are mobile — either
walking or crawling. 45 minute classes.
• Best for 12- 18 months.
• Fridays, 10 AM
5 week series: Jan. 18 – Feb. 15
Fee: $45 member, $75 nonmember: includes child’s Museum admission.
TODDLER PLAYGROUPS
Toddler playgroups are informal opportunities for toddlers to be part of a
group. Children explore a different theme each week filled with new and
different materials, tactile experiences, and stories/songs. Snack is
included. 45 minute classes.
• Best for ages 18 – 36 months.
First Friends (toddler attends alone)
• Best for ages 24 – 36 months
• Tuesdays or Wednesdays, 10 AM
Together Time (toddler w/caregiver)
• Best for ages 18 – 24 months
• Thursdays, 9:30 AM
Together Time (toddler w/caregiver)
• Best for ages 24 – 36 months
• Thursdays, 10:45 AM
5 week series: Jan. 15,16, or 17 – Feb. 12, 13, or 14 and Feb. 26,27, or 28 –
Mar. 26,27, or 28
Fee/series: $45 member, $75 nonmember (includes Museum admission
for child)
PRESCHOOLER CLASSES
Wednesdays, Jan. 17 – Feb. 14
“Making Music” Music builds logical reasoning and critical thinking skills
but it is also so much fun. Explore and play different instruments, build
one of your own, learn how to keep a rhythm, try scarf dancing and
singing. The five-week series of 60-minute programs are for 3-5 year olds
who are ready to attend alone.
• Best for 3-5 year olds
• Wednesdays, 1:30 PM
Wednesdays, Feb. 27 – Mar. 27
“ABCs & 123s“ Give your child the tools for success. This literacy-based
class introduces preschoolers to fantastic literature and incorporates
beginning letters/numbers through tactile experiences, movement/song,
games, and crafts. The five-week series of 60-minute programs are for 35 year olds who are ready to attend alone.
• Best for 3-5 year olds
• Wednesdays, 1:30 PM
Fee/series $45 member, $75 nonmember (includes Museum admission
for child)
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
Children explore scientific concepts through inquiry, hand-on activities,
and literature. Offered in sessions to allow little ones to substantially
explore a topic. Five-week series of 60-minute programs are for 3-5 year
olds who are ready to attend alone.
• Best for 3 – 5 year olds.
• Thursdays, 1:30 PM or Fridays, 10 AM
Themes of First 5 Week Series:
Thursdays, Jan. 17 – Feb. 14, 1:30 PM
“Space Is The Place“ Blast off to learn about the moon, the planets,
and our solar system. Create craters, make moon sand, learn about
winter constellations, and find out what it’s like to be an astronaut.
Fee: $45 member, $75 nonmember: includes child’s Museum admission
Fridays, Jan. 18 – Feb. 15, 10 AM “All About Me“ Every preschooler thinks
it’s all about them. Learn about body parts, dental health, five senses,
food, and heart health as we explore this topic.
Fee: $45 member, $75 nonmember: includes child’s Museum admission
Themes of Second 5 Week Series:
Thursdays, Feb. 28 – Mar. 28, 1:30 PM
“Earth Science: Rock On!“ Does your preschooler collect rocks everywhere he/she goes? Children identify different types of rocks, learn
how rock is made, go on a rock hunt, and even break open their own
geode to see what’s inside.
Fee: $45 member, $75 nonmember: includes child’s Museum admission
Fridays, Mar. 1 – Apr. 5, 10 AM (no class Mar. 29)
“Animals“ Take a look at farm animals, pets, rainforest animals, sea
creatures, and zoo animals. Learn about different animals each week.
Be on the lookout for some live special guests!
Fee: $45 member, $75 nonmember: includes child’s Museum admission
I WONDER . . . SCIENCE for HOMESCHOOLERS
Let your child bring their wonderings to a cooperative class. Our experienced educator is certified K-6 in CT and ready to listen and work with
you to provide authentic experiences for your homeschooler. Drop off
available.
• Best for 5 – 8 year olds
• Tuesdays, 1:30 PM
• 60 minute class.
5 week series*: Jan. 15 – Feb. 12 and Feb. 26 – Mar. 26
Fee/series: $45 member, $75 nonmember (includes Museum admission
for child)
* Parent and child meeting, Tuesday, Jan. 8, 1:30, to determine content.
No fee to attend.
WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION DATES:
Members-Only Early Registration Days:
Monday-Tuesday, Jan. 7-8, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM Two days before registration is open to the general public, Museum Members can walk in or
phone in their registration.
Registration Opens to All on Wed., Jan. 9.
•••••
Registration Policy: All classes must be paid-in-full at the time of registration. If patrons need to withdraw from class after that time, they are
issued a Museum credit. Museum credit can be used toward future
classes, Museum membership, or in the Museum Store. Classes need
a minimum of five (5) enrolled children to run. Refunds are only given in
the event a class is cancelled due to low enrollment.
January 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
December 30
31
OPEN Noon-4:30
TUESDAY
January 1
OPEN 9:30-4:30
WEDNESDAY
2
OPEN 9:30-4:30
THURSDAY
3
OPEN 9:30-4:30
4
9 10
2 3 4
AM PM
FAMILY FUN!
Check online for fee.
8
Sensory-Friendly
Morning 10-11:30
7
CLOSED
8
9
10
OPEN 9:30-4:30
MEMBERS ONLY:
Winter Programs
Registration Days 9:30-2
OPEN Noon-4:30
OPEN 9:30-8
OPEN 9:30-4:30
Dollar Night!
1st Friday Night
just $1/person!
4:30-8 PM
Noon!
10 -2
5 6 7
6
SATURDAY
5
OPEN 9:30-4:30
Countdown
to
12 1
11
FRIDAY
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11
12
OPEN 9:30-4:30
OPEN 9:30-4:30
Winter Programs
Registration
OPEN TO ALL!
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
Parent & child
planning meeting
No fee to attend.
1:30, ages 5-8
13
14
OPEN Noon-4:30
15
CLOSED
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
16
17
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“Making Music”
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
FAMILY Workshop
StarLab
3PM
8/family
wk 1 of 5, 45/ 75
1:30, ages 3-5
$
$
TOGETHER TIME
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
“Space is the Place”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
18
19
BABY SIGN & PLAY
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 12-18 mos..
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
“All About Me”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
$
20
OPEN Noon-4:30
27
OPEN Noon-4:30
21
22
OPEN 9:30-4:30
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
23
24
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
Mini-Camp: 9AM-3PM
Theatre Workshop:
BROADWAY BOUND
Fee: $60/$72
Performance: 3PM
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
28
29
CLOSED
“Making Music”
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
wk 1 of 5, 45/ 75
1:30, ages 3-5
$
$
30
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“Making Music”
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
TOGETHER TIME
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
“Space is the Place”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
31
TOGETHER TIME
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
“Space is the Place”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
25
26
BABY SIGN & PLAY
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 12-18 mos..
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
“All About Me”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
New this winter:
Tuesdays and Fridays, 11:30 AM
SMART CART in the Museum
From creatures to mad science,
spend 15 minutes with a Museum
educator to learn something
interesting.
* Member’s fee/non-members fee. Payment & registration required in advance. Call: 860-691-1111.
February 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
Friday, February 15, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
4
5
CLOSED
6
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
7
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“Making Music”
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
10
11
12
OPEN Noon-4:30
CLOSED
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
13
“Making Music”
FAMILY Workshop
Maple Sugaring
wk 5 of 5, 45/ 75
1:30, ages 3-5
$
$
OPEN Noon-4:30
18
19
OPEN 9:30-4:30
OPEN 9:30-4:30
Dollar Night!
1st Friday Night
just $1/person!
4:30-8 PM
9
BABY SIGN & PLAY
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 12-18 mos..
“Space is the Place”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
“All About Me”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
16
BABY SIGN & PLAY
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 12-18 mos..
“Space is the Place”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
OPEN 9:30-4:30
21
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
“All About Me”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
Val en t i n e
D ro
p Off !
20
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
15
TOGETHER TIME
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
3PM
$
8/family
17
“All About Me”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
8
TOGETHER TIME
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
14
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
Parents get the opportunity to go out for dinner while children explore a heart theme. Wear red
that evening and learn about the circulatory system, listen to your heartbeat, go on a red scavenger hunt, work your heart completing our obstacle course, and make some new friends!
Pizza with red sauce will be served. $20 fee per child, siblings half price. Must pre-register.
Refer to February calendar online for drop off policies and age restrictions.
OPEN Noon-4:30
2
BABY SIGN & PLAY
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 12-18 mos..
A Parents’ Night Out!
3
SATURDAY
$
20/child
siblings 1⁄2 price
22
23
OPEN 9:30-4:30
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
Mini-Camp: 9-NOON
Mystery Investigators
Fee: $60/$72
24
OPEN Noon-4:30
25
26
CLOSED
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
27
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“ABCs & 123s”
28
TOGETHER TIME
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
11:30 SMART CART PRESCHOOL CLASSES
“Earth Sci.: Rock On!”
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
Follow along at:
/childrensmuseumsect
@cmsect
/cmsect
* Member’s fee/non-members fee. Payment & registration required in advance. Call: 860-691-1111.
March 2013
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
1
Follow along at:
/childrensmuseumsect
@cmsect
/cmsect
4
OPEN Noon-4:30
“Animals”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 1 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 3-5
11
OPEN Noon-4:30
Kite Making!
3PM
8/family
$
17
18
OPEN Noon-4:30
25
OPEN Noon-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
15
16
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
11:30 SMART CART
“ABCs & 123s”
“Animals”
PRESCHOOL CLASSES “Earth Sci.: Rock On!”
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
10, ages 3-5
1:30, ages 3-5
TOGETHER TIME
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
Sensory-Friendly
Evening 6-7:30
20
21
23
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
11:30 SMART CART
“ABCs & 123s”
PRESCHOOL CLASSES “Earth Sci.: Rock On!”
“Animals”
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
1:30, ages 3-5
10, ages 3-5
(Final class on April 5)
27
TOGETHER TIME
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
22
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
26
CLOSED
14
OPEN 9:30-4:30
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 4 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
24
13
TOGETHER TIME
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
9
“ABCs & 123s”
“Animals”
PRESCHOOL CLASSES “Earth Sci.: Rock On!”
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
1:30, ages 3-5
10, ages 3-5
19
CLOSED
8
11:30 SMART CART
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 3 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
FAMILY Workshop
7
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
12
CLOSED
6
Dollar Night!
1st Friday Night
just $1/person!
4:30-8 PM
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 2 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
10
2
11:30 SMART CART
5
CLOSED
SATURDAY
OPEN 9:30-4:30
Program descriptions are available online at www.childrensmuseumsect.org
Check website for the most up-to-date calendar listings.
Calendars are accurate at time of printing.
3
FRIDAY
28
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
FIRST FRIENDS
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
10, ages 24-36 mos.
11:30 SMART CART
“ABCs & 123s”
PRESCHOOL CLASSES “Earth Sci.: Rock On!”
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
PRESCHOOL SCIENCE
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 3-5
1:30, ages 3-5
“I Wonder...”
SCIENCE for
HOMESCHOOLERS:
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
1:30, ages 5-8
TOGETHER TIME
wk 5 of 5, $45/$75
9:30, 18-24 mos.
10:45, 24-36 mos
OPEN 9:30-4:30
11:30 SMART CART
29
30
OPEN 9:30-4:30
OPEN 9:30-4:30
(no programs)
11:30 SMART CART
31
CLOSED
* Member’s fee/non-members fee. Payment & registration required in advance. Call: 860-691-1111.
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i
n
P
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fV
AN
Museum News & Volunteer Highlights
During the nine
September days that the Children’s
Museum of Southeastern Connecticut was closed, a group of staff
and volunteers got together each
day to spruce up the whole Museum. From sanding and painting our
exhibits to weeding our gardens,
everyone put a lot of effort into freshening everything up and making the
Museum look its best. Now the
Museum has its very own lighthouse
in the Seaside Village, thanks to
Facilities Associate John Schweizer
and carpenter Eric Krause. Its red
and white stripes pop against the
seascape mural. It’s perfect for climbing to the top and looking
at the museum from a whole new perspective.
Above: Museum staffers, wearing their finest tiaras, pose for a group
picture in the Photo Booth at the Museum’s 20th birthday celebration.
— Photo by Karen Schlink Photography.
WANTED:
Volunteers of ALL Ages
Our volunteers are invaluable help here at the Museum. Volunteering opportunities are always available. Once a week, once a
month, or any time you have to give, we need people to volunteer
as classroom helpers, do walk-throughs on the museum floor,
help create materials, work at special events,
weed outside beds (any gardeners out there?) and
so much more. Do you have a special interest or a
talent you can share with children? It may be a
special collection, building, cooking, origami,
music, the possibilities are endless. Our education
coordinator works with you to bring it to the children. Volunteering is a great way to give back to
the community and when you come to the museum you leave smiling from watching children play
and explore — you may even be the recipient of
an extra hug or two!
If interested, call Magda at 860-691-1111, Ext. 302
or email her [email protected]
Celebrating 20 Years!
On Aug. 10, more than 70 people gathered at the
Museum to celebrate the milestone. In attendance were First Selectman Paul Formica, State Representative
Ed Jutila, charter Board Members, current Board Members,
Museum staff, members, donors, and volunteers. We shared
Museum memories while enjoying festive Latin music from the
Chester-based band, Cantico, and amazing food and drink
donated by Sarah True of True Event, Anna Lathrop of Gourmet
Galley, Linda Sample of A Thyme To Cook, Betsey Plunkett of La
Cuisine, and Sue Kumro of Mermaid Liquors. We thank corporate sponsors Chelsea Groton Bank and L+M Hospital for their
generous donations as well as all local businesses who donated
to the basket raffle. The birthday gala was surely a night to be
remembered by all in attendance.
As I look forward to this next season, I am delighted to report
that the Museum marks its 20th year with a new executive director, Peter Claffey, who commenced his duties on Oct. 1. We truly
look forward to working with Peter to fulfill the mission of our
Museum and create positive experiences for our families and
children.
We look forward to seeing you soon at the Museum!
— Carla A. Barone, President
Children’s Museum
of Southeastern Connecticut
Presorted
Standard
U.S. Postage
409 Main Street, Niantic CT 06357
New London, CT
Permit No. 3
PAID
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Visit website for program descriptions and most up-to-date listings: childrensmuseumsect.org
The Wright Family
Charlie & Sue Wyand
Individuals
Anonymous
Annual Appeal
Linda Anania
Oct. 1, 2011 – Jan. 15, 2012
Jessica Anders
Best Friend Level
Kristen Anbari
RB & Greta Hammond
Tina Bessette
Friend Level
Lori Blake
Holly Cheeseman
Lynn Bodnar
Michael Dunn & Deb Moshier Dunn
Lee Brake
Tom Kalinosky & Christy Hammond
Cynthia Campbell
Buddy Level
Mr. Capazzi
Barbara Kingsland
William Reagan & J. Clements-Reagan David Casko
Steve Daren
Art Tanner
Michelle Dean
Sheila Welling
Mark Dignotti
Pal Level
James & Patricia Doran
Capt. Joseph & Patricia Anderson
Amy Drowne
Carla Barone- Geida
Maureen Gressler
Susan Hafler
Deborah Redford-Hayes
Doug & Jennifer Johnson
David Hayes
Agata Laterra
Dennis & Sonya Hoisington
Robin L. Leeds
Barbara & Raymond Jacobsen
Doreen L. Marvin
Cortney Kargusang
Linda & Frank Raffa
Jim Knox
Barbara Segal
Michelle Lanta
Candy & Ed Shapiro
Deborah Lavallee
Tony & Peggy Sheridan
Andrea Livingston
Gayle Solinsky
Robyn McKenney
Tony & Alice Spinelli
Fred D. Meltabarger
Neighbor Level
John Micali
Vincentia Belbruno
Munch Family
Jean Brown
Anita Postoak
Dan & Amy Carlin
Heather Roberts
Julie Dowling
Donna & Mike Rogers
Diane Dusza
Jennifer Rosado
Amanda Fagan
Bernadette SantaMaria
Phyllis & Ed Gada
Robert & Lori Singer
Claire Hadfield
Kiersten Sinko
Monique Heller
Mary Ellen & Paul Smith
Sarah Jolly-Ballantine
Morgan Solinsky
Ed & Donna Jutila
Robin Soule
Lorraine Kalinosky
Brian D. Klee & Diane M. Davidson, MD Mr. Susi
Nanci Thibault
Dr. & Mrs. Robert Linden
Edward & Doreen Thomas
Evelyn MacDougall
Justin Urbina
John Mahon
Rosemary Vann
Emanuel & Irene Makiaris
Maia Vargas
Hon. & Mrs. Kevin McMahon
The Mark Weber Family
Victoria Mueller
Diana & Ethan Weiner
Susan Ellen Napiany
Mary White
Rachel Popkowski
Rebecca Whittico
Karen & David Quinn
Loren Wren
Kate & Clint Rand
In-Kind Donations / Goods & Services
Ellen Spring
Artisan Frame Gallery
William Tait
Carol
Ballestrini – Ballestrini’s Childcare
Ali Turner
Mrs. Spencer Beers – Yankee Clipper
Mary Vetel
Restaurant
Magda Waller
Jennifer Bernal – Build-A-Bear
Diana & Ethan Weiner
MUSEUM DONORS
Kim Binaco – Liberty Bank
Mark Christensen – Green Acres
Ernie Covino – Covino’s Groceria
David Daynard
Eleni’s Pizzeria
Brian Filapowski – Grossman Auto
Dick Gada – Guy’s Oil Service
Frank Grace – Main Street Grille
Christy Hammond & Tom Kalinosky
Chris Heller – SureBright Enterprises
Mike Iacurci
Juanita Jansen
Mike Johnson – Maple Print Shop
Sue Kumro – Mermaid Liquors
Arthur Murray Dance Studio
Rick Nelson – Thompson Motor Speedway
Premier Business Services
Niantic Plumbing
Rent-A-Space Companies
Dawn Robinson – Barnum Financial Grp
Lindsay Savonna, Esq.
John Schweizer – Schweizer Wood Work
Candy Shapiro – Grace
Jeanne Sigel – Garde Arts Center
Terri Smith – Smith Acres
Kathleen Waido – Angel Care, LLC
Lori Steinbeck – Weichert Realty
James Wicker – Wicker & Co., LLC
Sue Wiley & Kirsten Smith
– Mary Kay Cosmetics
Karen zbierski
Supporting Members
Capt. Joseph & Patricia Anderson
Susan M. Brown
Lindsay Gray & William Jeffs
Susan Hafler & Sam Maeby
Jackie Beyerle-Kalajainen
& Kimberly Kalajainen
Tom Kalinosky & Christy Hammond
Beth Rafferty & Todd Beardsley
Wendy Richardson
Eleanor Rickel
Susan & Barry Sheckley
VADM Paul & Sheila Welling
Businesses/Organizations
Angel Care
Asselin-Connolly, LLC
Ballestrini’s Childcare Centers
Cash True Value Home Center
Chelsea Groton Bank
Chubb Federal Insurance Company
Covino’s Groceria
East Lyme High School Jazz Band
East Lyme High School Student Activity
Fund
East Lyme Police Cadets
Eleni’s Pizza Restaurant
Flander’s Fish Market & Restaurant
Green Acres
Peter & Debra Pasquale
Howard & Gloria Covington
Grossman Autos
Linda Raffa
M.S. Douglass
Heavy Equipment Services Co. – HESCO
Maureen & Karen Redanz
Fairfield F. DuBois
Law Office of Lindsay Savana, LLC
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Rogers
Chris & Robin Hess
Law Office of Michael Iacurci, LLC
Barbara & Joseph Segal
Thomas A. Holland
Leila & Libbie Eats & Treats
Shampine Family
J.B. Leeming
Lighthouse Project
Candy & Ed Shapiro
Anne M. McMillan
Mermaid Liquors
Barry Sheckley
Pat & Donna O’Rourke
Niantic Plumbing
Peggy & Tony Sheridan
Bob & Beth Peirce
Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts
Tracy & Louis Shoor
Bob & Marie Pierce
Program
Alice & Tony Spinelli
Mark & Maura Powers
Pfizer United Way Campaign
Andrea Stillman
Linda Raffa
Plumbers &Pipefitters Union Local 777
Arthur Tanner
Julie Ann H. Slimmon
Premier Business Services
Well-Spring Retirement Community Nanci Thibault
Rent-A-Space Companies
Margaret S. Tuttle
Rotary Club of Niantic
$
Richard Walters
20 for 20 Campaign
Smith Acres
Diana & Ethan Weiner
Anonymous
Smith Insurance
Ryan & Michelle Williams
Anonymous
Southeastern CT Chinese School
Eric & Giselle Wisniewski
Anonymous
Sure-Bright Enterprises
Joe & Loren Wren
Anonymous
The Soap Patch
20th Birthday Bash
Minnie Bajomo
The Williams School Service Committee
Carla Barone
5, 6, 7, 8 Dance **
Tony’s Well Drilling Inc
Gilbert & Maryellen A Thyme to Cook **
United Way of Central & Northeastern CT
Bowman
Best of Everything Country Gourmet **
Village Bake Shop
The Bradshaw Family
Café Sol
Wicker & Co., LLC
Thomas & Patricia Brand
Capt. Scott’s Lobster Dock
Yankee Clipper
Jane Brannegan
Chelsea Groton Bank *
Restricted Gifts
Wendy & James Canty
Children’s Museum of SECT **
Barry & Susan Sheckley
Coca-Cola Bottling Co. **
Waterford Group Charitable Foundation Mr. & Mrs. David Carberry
Holly Cheeseman
Cross Sound Ferry **
Grants / Foundations
Sally Cini
Earth 2 – Josh Chalmers **
Anonymous
Dignazio Family
East Coast Taco **
Anonymous
Julie Dowling
Eastern CT Symphony Orchestra **
Dominion Foundation
Flanders Bake Shop **
Josephine Lanzalotta Allen Fund & Com- Amy Drowne
Flanders Hair Design **
munity Foundation of Eastern Con- Joan A. Gannon
Carol Gordon
Florence Griswold Museum **
necticut
Alissa Gray - In honor of Peggy Mayo
Frosty Treat – Bill Zielman **
Kitchings Family Foundation
David & Deborah Gustafson
Gourmet Galley **
Pfizer, Inc.
The Guttman Family
Illiano’s Pizza, Niantic **
William Caspar Graustein Memorial
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Haffey
Karen Schlink Photography
Fund
David & Muriel Hinkle
Lawrence +Memorial Hospital *
Honorarium
Mark & Jill Johnson
La Cuisine **
Gift in Honor of Marjorie Heard
Mary Ellen Jukoski
Leila & Libby **
Gary & Sara Heard
& W. Matthew McLoughlin
Mermaid Liquors **
Memoriam
Ed Jutila
Niantic Jazzercise **
Gifts in Memory of Ginger Ely:
Kim & Jackie Kalajainen
Northern Light Gems – Anthony Suarez**
Marcia Ely Bechtold
Lorraine Kalinosky
Ray’s New Haven Style Pizza **
Patricia & Severn Carlson
Sue & Dave Labrie
Smith Acres - Teri Smith **
Mildred E. Devine
James & Sandra LaFond
Stop&Shop Bakery **
Katharine Garfield
Dylan & Sally Ann Lee
That Look Salon **
Eleanor McClarney
Dr. Robert & Caren Linden
Thirty-One Gifts - Karen Swyer **
Ruth Milkey
Lewis & Linda Lorinsky
Zen & Now **
Jean & George Morgan
Evelyn MacDougall
* Event Sponsors
Richard & Donna Peck
Emanuel & Irene Makiaris
** Donations for Birthday Bash
Linda Raffa
George & Olga Manos
Marvin & Marilyn Schutt
Don Meltabarger
Alice G. Todd
Donations FY-2012: We strive for accuraMoms Club of New London
Gifts in Memory of Joyce Mayfield:
cy, please let us know of any omissions.
& Waterford
Francis Baldino
List of donors can also be found at
Deb Moshier-Dunn
Between the Lines Book Club
childrensmuseumsect.org/donors.html
Catherine O’Brien
Marian & Ray Brandes