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Whitaker Center Unveils New Tiny Tots Adventures in STEAM for Toddlers

Join Whitaker Centerโ€™s new parent-and-me program for toddlers, full of STEAM, fun, and connection!

By Rachael Benion, publisher, Macaroni KID Harrisburg and West Shore September 27, 2024

Whitaker Center Launches New Toddler Program: Tiny Tots Adventures in STEAM!

Let’s face it: toddlers are tiny, adorable mess-making machines, and if your living room is anything like mine, it’s one “experiment” away from being declared a disaster zone. But guess what? The Whitaker Center has swooped in to save the day (and your sofa) with their brand-new Tiny Tots: Adventures in STEAM program!

This "Grown-Up and Me" program is the perfect way to channel all that toddler energy into something educational—somewhere that isn’t your house! Designed for little explorers ages two and under, Tiny Tots gives kiddos their first taste of science, technology, engineering, art, and math, all wrapped up in fun, interactive activities. You’ll sing, read, and dive into hands-on exploration, and the best part? You get to be right there, joining in on all the fun with your tiny human!

Dates and Times

Mark your calendars! Tiny Tots runs from October to May, every Tuesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in Whitaker Center’s awesome KidsPlace exhibit area. (And yes, there’s plenty of time at the beginning and end for your tot to unleash their inner scientist and explore the exhibit space).

Pro Tip: While the rest of the Science Center won’t be open during this time, don’t worry—the KidsPlace area is basically toddler heaven, so you’ll be covered!

A Program for Grown-Ups Too

Parent-and-me programs like this are more than just toddler time. They’re an essential part of building your own village—because let’s be real, raising tiny tots can be an adventure, and we all need backup! You’ll get to connect with other parents, share those “Oh wow, your kid does that too?” moments, and maybe even make a few friends while you’re at it. Plus, you get the joy of watching your kiddo discover new things without having to clean up the aftermath.

We all know that getting out of the house with a tiny tot can feel like prepping for a space mission (will we make it out the door on time? Will the snacks last the car ride?), but trust me—this is worth it. It’s a perfect chance to engage with your little one, fill their curiosity tank, and meet other parents who get it.

Pricing That Won't Break the Bank (or Your Brain)

Whitaker Center is making it easy on your wallet, too:

  • Members: $3 per child
  • Non-members: $10 per child
    And yes, each child ticket includes admission for one grown-up, because you’re the star of this toddler adventure too!

Also, if you have an ACCESS card, you’re in luck—complimentary admission is available! Just be sure to reach out to info@whitakercenter.org to discuss registration.

How to Register (Because We All Know Plans Can Change Quickly With a Toddler)

Pre-registration is required, but Whitaker Center knows life with a tiny human can be unpredictable. So they’ve kept registration open right up until the program starts. You can pre-register online at https://www.whitakercenter.org/kids/tiny-tots/ or call the box office at 717-214-ARTS. Easy peasy!

Why Whitaker Center?

Let’s give a round of applause to Whitaker Center for filling this much-needed gap in programming for the youngest learners. Not only are they offering fun, mess-free (for you!) educational opportunities, but they’re also helping parents build their local community and share in the adventure of raising little scientists and artists. Honestly, I think they launched this program just because they know I’m expecting another witty little one, and they want to be ready for all the future shenanigans!

So, whether your toddler is more of a budding chemist, an abstract artist, or simply loves to make things (and sometimes destroy them), Tiny Tots is the perfect way to encourage their curiosity while giving you a break from cleaning finger paint off your furniture. Sign up, show up, and let’s make some memories—without the mess!

See you at Tiny Tots!