And that is Science Museum of Virginia’s IMAX showing of The Polar Express.

I took my 7-year-old for a date who is just at the age where he’s becoming pretty skeptical about “all that Santa business”.  We’ve been reading the story of The Polar Express to him during the holiday season since he could sit still for a story.  Of course, movies have a magic of their own, but a 75 foot screen gives that magic a little extra boost.  He raved about the movie, identifying with the protagonist, and just as much raved about the IMAX theatre.  In fact, he’ll be really disappointed when he finds out he’s not invited when I go back when I take my 5-year-old train enthusiast.

The Polar Express became an instant Christmas classic after its 2004 release and is based off of the children’s picture book by Chris Van Allsburg.  The story centers around a young boy who is starting to doubt the magic of Christmas and is taken on an amazing and thrilling journey on the Polar Express to the North Pole.

Be absolutely sure to make this a part of your holiday.

While you’re there, check out all the other great things you can do right now at the Science Museum of Virginia! Save money on Fridays with the Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Card!

The Polar Express runs through January 1, 2013
Check the Science Museum of Virginia’s website for times
Tickets: $5 for members / $9 for non-members

The Science Museum of Virginia is a sponsor of Richmondmom.com

Boost!  is the Science Museum of Virginia‘s first new permanent exhibit in a decade.  It’s Amazing and it opens this weekend!  If  you’re looking to Boost! your creativity, flexibility, memory, strength…(well, you get the picture) this is the place to be.

By using cutting-edge technology, Boost! allows visitors to personalize their experience, track performance and playfully compete with friends and family.

From watching popcorn on the cob being made in the incredible full scale Kitchen Stadium to laying down your own percussion tracks on “More Cowbell” , SMV’s new exhibit will tantalize and mesmerize while challenging your perceptions of wellness, self-improvement and your interactions with the world around you.

When you first enter the exhibit, you receive a chip with a QR code, which you can use to track your results throughout the interactive exhibit.  The chip is yours to keep, so you can take it back to the Science Museum and track your progress over time.  Challenge yourself (or your whole family) to become more flexible, develop better balancing skills or improve memory.

Brian and I were lucky enough to get a sneak peak at Boost! and this is some of what we learned:

1. With a bit of practice, we could both learn to walk a tight rope!
2. Brian could squeeze me into a travel golf bag if he ever needed to (which I sure hope he doesn’t).
3. Brian can bench press WAY more than me, big surprise, but I can jump higher than him relative to our respective heights.
4. The interactive yoga exhibit is REALLY popular…we didn’t get a chance to test it out this time, but I’m really excited to go back and play around with that one!!
5. We both need more sleep and LOTS more play time.

Boost! opens Saturday, June 22nd, and if you can pry yourself away from the exhibit, don’t forget to enjoy everything from Robots to live performances at the Spring N2 Summer celebration’s special outdoor activities and live science demonstrations.  Included with general admission and free for members!

For more details on Boost! and other Science Museum of Virginia exhibits and events, please visit:  www.smv.org or call 804.464.1400.

 Science Museum of Virginia is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Get ready….get set….have FUN!

It’s the annual Family Palooza at the Science Museum of Virginia on June 15, 2013. It’s a day filled with fun and healthy activities for the entire family. Thanks to HCA Virginia for sponsoring this annual event.

Wondering what all the hoopla is about? Well here are just some of the fun events:

• Free health screenings
• Face painting
• Glitter tattoos
• Live Music
• Games and prizes
• Cooking demonstrations
• Speed pitch and batting with the Flying Squirrels
• Football with the UR Spiders
• Soccer and skills training with the Richmond Kickers
• Local EMS heroes with fire trucks, helicopters and vehicles that keep our community safe

The best news? It’s all FREE!

The free event kicks off at 10am and runs to 2pm at The Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 West Broad Street. Women.HCAVirginia.com has more details on Family Palooza or call 804-320-DOCS (3627).

HCA Spirit of Women is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com 

Please visit websites or call to confirm dates and times of events – they may change after posting here.

Have an event to add to our calendar? Email us at christa@richmondmom.com! Don’t forget to check your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver card for great savings at many local events and activities for kids and adults. Don’t have a card? No worries – download a copy here!

Now Through Saturday, June 8

Puritan Cleaners 100,000 Meals for Kids – Puritan Cleaners partners with the Central Virginia Food Bank & Feedmore each Spring to raise food & funds to help feed kids during the summer months when they are out of school and the need for food increases. This year’s 100,000 Meals collection runs from May 19th to June 8th.  Bring your non-perishable food or funds to any Puritan Cleaners location.  Every donation is needed and appreciated.

Now Through August 18

SYMMETREES at The Science Museum of Virginia. Photographer and sculptor John Moser shares his unique view of fallen trees in Central Virginia forests by capturing their photos, then enhancing them so that the images take on a life of their own. Included with exhibit admission. Free for members.

Now Through September 6

Flight of the Butterflies – The Science Museum of Virginia: Read our Real Richmond Review. Migrate with hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies across North America! Discover the hideaway of these magnificent creatures – a secret that was unlocked after 40 years of research by Dr. Fred Urquhart. Immerse yourself in this compelling adventure as you find a super generation of butterflies who miraculously travel to a new and remote destination. Experience firsthand the beauty of the migration cycle of butterflies spanning not only thousands of miles but generations!

Monday, June 3, 2013

CMoR’s Magic Mondays with extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. A variety of food options are available at the Seymour Snack Shack including frozen yogurt, popcorn, snow cones and a variety of hot and cold beverages like coffee and juice.

They Call it Stormy Weather: How Artists See the Weather and the Seasons. Explore artists’ depictions of weather from thunderstorms on powerful, wild seas to sunny skies above spring fields. The photographic reproductions are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission. LAST DAY!

Game On! at Clover Hill Library. Visit the library to play Wii games and hang out with friends. No registration is necessary – just stop by and join the fun. Clover Hill Library.

Volunteen in Goochland – looking for a teen volunteer opportunity for the summer?  Find out how you can help the library during our Summer Reading Program. Pizza & drinks provided by the Friends of the Goochland Library.

Tuesday, June 4

CMoR’s extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. A variety of food options are available at the Seymour Snack Shack including frozen yogurt, popcorn, snow cones and a variety of hot and cold beverages like coffee and juice. Tuesday: Open mic night couldn’t be any cuter! Kiddos can sing their favorite tunes on the CMoR karaoke machine!

Flying Squirrels Baseball Game – The Diamond. The Moonshiners Appearance – Tim & Tickle presented by K95. Game time 6:35pm, gates open at 5:35pm.

Club Mom from 9am-11am.  Chesterfield Towne Center.  A great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Great entertainment, fun giveaways for the adults, and free breakfast for children 12 years or younger.

Wednesday, June 5

Wine Down to benefit Tricycle Gardens at the Wine Loft in Short Pump. Join the fun and help raise money for this important cause. Learn more here. 

CMoR’s Wild Wednesdays with extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. A variety of food options are available at the Seymour Snack Shack including frozen yogurt, popcorn, snow cones and a variety of hot and cold beverages like coffee and juice.

Scents of Serenity – Please join us for this informative and fun weight loss workshop taught by our special guest speaker, Mandi Felici from Northern Virginia. She will be sharing health and nutrition tips as well as teaching on how to incorporate doTERRA’s nutritional supplements, protein drinks, and most of all our amazing CPTG Essential Oils to achieve weight loss! We will be sampling doTERRA’s Slim and Sassy blend and protein drinks.  Space is limited. Click to register or call Melanie at (804)277-4498.

Lunch Break at the Science Museum. Pack a lunch and join us.  Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Free. June 5:  Energy and the Evolution of Culture presented by Anthropology Professor Emeritus Nancie Gonzales, Ph.D., University of Michigan.

Drop in and Dig at Lewis Ginter. Families are invited to drop-in and participate in simple, easy to learn gardening tasks under the guidance of Children’s Garden staff and volunteers.

Parenting the High Maintenance Child. Some children seem to require more time and energy than others. If you find yourself exhausted by and impatient with your child, this class is for you. Learn tips for managing meltdowns and tantrums. Find ways to help children to be more self-regulating. Register: 804-545-1272 with Commonwealth Parenting.

St. John’s Church Foundation has presented historical reenactments at the original location of the Second Virginia Convention of March 1775. Professional actors in 1770s attire portray ten delegates, including Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. The delegates engage in the debates and arguments of the Second Virginia Convention, which lead up to Patrick Henry’s immortal “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. 1:00 pm Doors open, seating is on first come, first serve basis 1:30 pm Music program 2:00.

Food Court Truck at Chesterfield Town Center. Weekly, on Wednesdays from 6pm to 9pm through September 25th, that’s 22 weeks of RVA Foodies cuisine at Chesterfield Towne Center. Where: Outside in CTC’s Parking Lot, Mall Entrance on Koger Center Boulevard (Outer Sears Parking Lot). Each event will be based on weather permitting. Facebook posts on the Mall’s page will happen every Wednesday at 3pm to confirm the night’s event and the RVA Foodies will post and tweet the event as well.

Flying Squirrels Baseball Game – 6:35pm at The Diamond. Community Association Night presented by Hot 100.9.

Innsbrook After Hours. 5pm.

Thursday, June 6

CMoR’s Theater Thursdays with extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. A variety of food options are available at the Seymour Snack Shack including frozen yogurt, popcorn, snow cones and a variety of hot and cold beverages like coffee and juice.

Summer Sounds at Stony Point Fashion Park. Thursday, June 6, 2013 Fetherston, Tiller, & Holmes (Rock, Top 40).

2013 Virginia Homeschool Convention –“Home Education: A Bountiful Harvest”. Held June 6-8, 2013, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, this promises to be another awesome, bring-the-whole-family event–you won’t want to miss it! Details on this year’s speakers and exhibitors–along with many of last year’s exciting new features–will be coming soon. Save the date and check back often to get the latest convention news! Click here for convention registration prices and information.

Barnes & Noble Storytime. 10:30am each Friday. Join us each Thursday for our Children’s Storytime. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the Children’s Museum.

Words that Work with Preschoolers aged 2-4 yrs. When: June 6, 2013 | From 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Cost: 30. Commonwealth Parenting | commonwealth parenting in Continental Building. It’s not just what you say, but how you say it that gets results. Learn more effective communication skills that will stop undesirable behavior and encourage cooperation. Get practical tips to avoid power struggles

Parts of Arts at the Museum. 10am-11am at the Virginia Museum of Arts – Preschool Programs.

Flying Squirrels. Fitness Night & Fireworks presented by Coventry, Ford & ESPN 950.  Game time is 6:35pm, gates open at 5:35pm.

The 37th Annual Norfolk Harborfest®  happens Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9, 2013 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The Festival kicks off with the return of the AT&T HarborFEAST Seafood Sampler on Thursday, June 6th from 6pm-9pm and continues through the weekend with 3 full days of FREE, fresh, family-friendly FUN!

Friday, June 7

CMoR’s Fine Arts Friday with extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. Guest artists and art demonstrations will be featured along with special activities to inspire budding artists. Children can take part in creating a progressive outdoor mural that will become the focal point to the museum entrance!

Kids Night Out at All Fired Up. All Fired Up location, kids create a project from wet clay and glaze a ceramic piece plus a pizza dinner is included. Register: 804-744-5506 or 804-355-3412.

Summer Sounds at Stony Point Fashion Park. Friday, June 7, 2013 Tammi Kamin Band (Full Flavor Rock).

First Friday Samplers at Visual Arts Center of Richmond. Food trucks, friends, and fun. A creative outing and lots of activities and great food.

Pocahontas State Park – Outdoor performance by the Embers, a legendary beach-music band that hails from North Carolina. Bring a blanket and a picnic.

Teen Extreme. Teens will have a night jam-packed with activities including basketball, air hockey, ping-pong and Xbox. Eastern Henrico Rec Center. 1440 N. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA.

2013 Virginia Homeschool Convention –“Home Education: A Bountiful Harvest”. Held June 6-8, 2013, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, this promises to be another awesome, bring-the-whole-family event–you won’t want to miss it! Details on this year’s speakers and exhibitors–along with many of last year’s exciting new features–will be coming soon. Save the date and check back often to get the latest convention news!

The 37th Annual Norfolk Harborfest®  happens Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9, 2013 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The Festival kicks off with the return of the AT&T HarborFEAST Seafood Sampler on Thursday, June 6th from 6pm-9pm and continues through the weekend with 3 full days of FREE, fresh, family-friendly FUN!

Saturday, June 8

2013 Virginia Homeschool Convention –“Home Education: A Bountiful Harvest”. Held June 6-8, 2013, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, this promises to be another awesome, bring-the-whole-family event–you won’t want to miss it! Details on this year’s speakers and exhibitors–along with many of last year’s exciting new features–will be coming soon. Save the date and check back often to get the latest convention news!

Farmers Market at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.  8 a.m.-noon. Fifth season for the Farmers Market @ St. Stephen’s (6000 Grove Avenue). Continues every Saturday through October 26, rain or shine. More than 30 farmers and other vendors, all local. Children’s activities, chef demos, music, ample free parking.

Boxer Brief Battle 5k Run at Rocketts Landing. The “Boxer Brief Battle” 5K Run is the first event offered by HCB2.  The event focuses on colon cancer prevention and raising funds for colon cancer research, screening assistance, and advocacy. Proceeds of the 2013 “Boxer Brief Battle” 5K Run will benefit the American Cancer Society and “Access Now”. Several sponsors including Colon and Rectal Specialists of Richmond.

Lowe’s Monster Growers – It’s going to be a monster summer at Lowe’s! Bring your child to Lowe’s this Saturday and they can build these awesome Mike and Sulley Scarers inspired by Disney•Pixar’s upcoming release Monsters University!

Abby’s Race for Hope 5K Run/Walk:  Packet pickup 7:45AM.  Race 9:00AM.  Saturday, June 8th, Bryan Park, Shelter 1, Richmond.  $15 to $25.  Kids under 6 free.  Stroller friendly.  Raffle after race (tickets $5/each).  Proceeds to benefit Abby’s Race for Hope Trust and STOPCMV.org. Register on website.

Summer Sounds at Stony Point Fashion Park. Saturday, June 8, 2013 Ban Caribe (Calypso, Island Pop).

Stop Hunger Now Packaging Event. Visualize a world without Hunger. On behalf of the 925 million people who suffer and the 25,000 people who die each day from hunger-related causes – the end to hunger is possible. WE NEED YOUR HELP! All you need to do is VOLUNTEER and show up for the second annual Stop Hunger Now campaign.

Summer Ready Party at Ginter Park Library. Come and register for the Summer Reading Program. It doesn’t matter what your age is there is a program just for you. Get some energy jumping in our bounce house and enjoy a sno-cone.

Journey to the Center of the Universe to eat your weight in strawberries! While you’re in the Center of the Universe, there will be bands, local vendors, foodstuffs, and other family-friendly events. If you’ve got kids in tow, the odds are super high of catching a train from extremely close proximity as it makes its way through Ashland. Free! 10am-5pm. Randolph Macon College.

AARF with Paws in the Park! Join us in celebrating AARF’s 20th year in rescue! Paws in the Park this year is bigger than ever! Live music by Starlighter and Wayne Ruotolo, Food, Silent Auctions, Pet Blessing, Pet Photo and Kissing Booths, Moon Bounce, Henrico County Fire Truck, Pet Masseuse, Lots of great Vendors, Rescue Groups with Adoptable Animals, Henrico County K9 Unit Demo, Face Painting & Kids Craft Table, and much more! Pets welcome and encouraged with proof of rabies and no retractable leashes please.

American Civil War Center at Tredegar - Storytelling is one of the world’s oldest traditions. Enslaved African Americans used storytelling as a way of communicating with each other and to preserve their heritage. These stories were used to help teach children how to behave, to explain the world around them and the behavior of animals and sometimes even to poke fun at the masters and themselves.

Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival: The name says it all. Taking place at Richmond Raceway Complex.  This year’s show is lookin’ better than ever. Over 30,000 beer and bourbon lovers have joined us for the last three years and this year is sure to be another SELL OUT!

Free Irish Dance Class at Heart of Ireland School of Dance. Try Irish dancing and see what all the fun is about. Open to all ages, register by calling 804-464-8190.

Free event – Jammin on the James – Bring a picnic dinner and your favorite lawn chair for family-friendly music on our scenic terrace overlooking the James River.  Enjoy complimentary walk-through tours of Wilton as well as face painting, games, and crafts for kids.

Moonlight Magic. The 11th Annual Moonlight Magic at James River Cellars will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013. This sell-out event is a favorite among supporters of Massey and lovers of wine and craft beer. Plan to join us for musical stylings of The Remnants, tastings of local craft beer by Hardywood Brewery and wine by James River Cellars, the gourmet cuisine of Champagne Taste Catering, as well as exciting silent and live auctions. General admission tickets are $45 in advance, $50 at the door.For tickets and additional information, visit our website.

Free Family Fishing. It’s National Fishing Month! Courthouse Park – no fishing license needed.  Food vendors will be on site to purchase a picnic style dinner of hot dogs, chips and drinks; and the Kona Ice Truck will also stop by for some refreshing treat options.

The 37th Annual Norfolk Harborfest®  happens Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9, 2013 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The Festival kicks off with the return of the AT&T HarborFEAST Seafood Sampler on Thursday, June 6th from 6pm-9pm and continues through the weekend with 3 full days of FREE, fresh, family-friendly FUN!

Special Olympics Virginia’s Summer Games. 9am-3pm. Summer Games, Special Olympics Virginia’s largest statewide competition, is nothing short of legendary thanks to the overwhelming support of more than 3,000 local volunteers who brave the summer heat to assist with competitions and events throughout the weekend. 1,300 Special Olympics Virginia athletes come from all corners of the state to go for the gold in swimming, softball, track & field, bowling and tennis competitions.

Southern Food Festival at Welborne Church. 11:30. – 3:00 p.m. Great food. BBQ chicken and pork. Southern sides. Great desserts. Music by 3 bands. Fun and games for kids.

Colonial Downs 17th Annual Season Opener. Enjoy the start of summer with the 17th Annual Thoroughbred Season Opener at Colonial Downs! Bring your family and friends to an exciting evening that is fun for all ages. Post Time is 6pm. Admission is $3. For more information, visit the website.

Sunday, June 9

Summer Sounds at Stony Point Fashion Park. Sunday, June 9, 2013 Emme St. James (Jazz and Standards).

Lowe’s Monster University Scarers and Growers – It’s going to be a monster summer at Lowe’s! Bring your child to Lowe’s this Saturday and they can build these awesome Mike and Sulley Scarers inspired by Disney•Pixar’s upcoming release Monsters University!

The 37th Annual Norfolk Harborfest®  happens Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9, 2013 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. The Festival kicks off with the return of the AT&T HarborFEAST Seafood Sampler on Thursday, June 6th from 6pm-9pm and continues through the weekend with 3 full days of FREE, fresh, family-friendly FUN!

Free Admission to the Nature Center. Maymont Nature Center.

Father’s Day Celebration at Ukrop Park – Come celebrate the gift of fatherhood at Richmond’s newest location for activity. In addition to some swimming pool fun, there will be field games, cornhole, bounce houses, “The Fastest Dad in Richmond” contests (both swimming and running) and a special presentation. 804-288-3431.

1st Annual Bacon Festival: Yes, you read that right. It’s the first annual Bacon Festival at the 17th Street Farmer’s Market where you can sample local bacon dishes with live music and great craft beers.

Saturday, May 25-Friday, September 6, 2013

Photo courtesy of The Science Museum of Virginia.

Do you believe in miracles? Do you need to be reminded of the incredible magic of nature? Are you looking for an uplifting, exhilarating, and majestic view of the world?

Then head over to The Science Museum of Virginia where you will get all of this and more! As my 3-year old granddaughter, Lily, and I headed out to see Flight of the Butterflies on Friday, I had no idea how wonderful it would be.

Sure, I know butterflies are beautiful. And I love to watch them flutter around the colorful flowers and greenery of summer. And I even remembered that a scientist had spent much of his life exploring their habits and habitats. But I was not prepared for what else I learned in this film in the awesome IMAX Dome of the Museum.

Settling down in a comfortable seat, Lily was all ready for the show with her popcorn. As the lights were dimmed, she reached for my hand in the darkness, but it wasn’t long before Lily’s eyes were wide with amazement. Hundreds of Monarch butterflies magically filled the theater all around us. She kept reaching out to try and touch them as she quietly ooh’d and ahh’d. Seeing the smile on her face and watching her tiny hands reaching forward for these delicate creatures was worth the visit to the Museum already.

Photo courtesy of The Science Museum of Virginia.

But that was just the beginning.

As the movie progressed, we found ourselves flying above the earth, sniffing at sweet flower blossoms, and drifting over a lazy summer stream. We soared among the clouds and eventually found solace in a lovely garden filled with flowering shrubs and plants.

Lily’s eyes grew bigger as we witnessed a butterfly developing from egg through caterpillar and pupa to butterfly — thanks to MRI and micro CT scans. The pupa, attached underneath a picnic table in the garden, soon emerged and embarked on a journey of thousands of miles that led to a secret hideaway.

The film brought the journey of Dr. Fred Urquhart and his wife to life. They worked for 40 years to discover the secret hideaway where Monarchs winter high in remote mountain peaks in Mexico, never giving up on their dream of discovery. Their love and dedication to each other and their work was like a love story. Watching the story unfold with hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies making a seemingly impossible journey across North America was inspiring.

These delicate, lovely creatures weighing less than a penny braved rain, storms, dust, heat, humidity, and thousands of miles to make their journey. Flight of the Butterflies is both an epic adventure and a detective story featuring Dr. Urquhart, his wife, and unlikely heroes who share a common strength — determination and a desire to learn more about nature.

Generations Later

It takes several generations for the butterflies to complete the full cycle of what is one of the longest migrations, reaching from Canada to Mexico. We shared their perilous flight as these beautiful creatures miraculously flew to destinations they’d never visited before. It takes two to three generations to make the trip north from Mexico through the United States and into Canada. Once they reached Canada, a super generation was born which flew all the way to Mexico to remote butterfly sanctuaries 10,000 feet high in the mountains.

The entire film was incredible – but the last minutes of the film brought surprises, excitement, and even tears as we watched the unfolding story and the discovery of one very special butterfly among hundreds of millions of butterflies high up in the mountains. A single breath-taking moment for Dr. Urquhart was shared with us that left us feeling overjoyed with the miracles of nature. There is no question that you will be touched and inspired by this moment – and the entire movie!

Lily with her pink butterfly necklace from the Museum’s Gift Shop.

Take time to visit The Science Museum of Virginia to enjoy Flight of the Butterflies. And like Lily, be sure and stop by the gift shop on your way out to pick up a small reminder of these Monarch butterflies and their strength!

After you’ve seen the film, visit real butterflies at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden’s Butterflies LIVE!

The Science Museum of Virginia is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Our recent exploration of this exhibit did not allow nearly enough time to cover it all. We expected an hour would be enough, but boy were we wrong!

Robots + Us is a massive, interactive exhibit that boggles the mind. You will see robots and machines working in ways you never imagined before.

• Test the senses of a light-seeking robot as you guide it through a maze by controlling light exposure.
• Compare your own abilities against an industrial robot as you race to assemble a jigsaw puzzle.
• Explore the dynamics of walking machines as you create your own crawling creature and guide it through obstacle courses!
• Try to fool facial recognition software by disguising yourself with a fake mustache or wearing sunglasses!

Walking into the exhibit hall, you are met by a large Robot Mascot – approach carefully as my 3-year old granddaughter, Lily, was a bit taken aback when she first saw this ‘alien creature’! But we were quick to learn that this was a very friendly robot greeting us. There are lots of displays, but as always, it’s the interactive opportunities that grab the attention of the kids.

Mobile Robots were a big hit where we could direct robots by flashlights and build a maze. We spent quite a bit of time assembling a puzzle, and trying to beat the robot (the robots are amazingly fast at assembling puzzles for sure!). You can actually compare your own abilities against an industrial robot as you race to assemble a jigsaw puzzle. And watching the appearing and disappearing objects at the railroad depot kept us mesmerized for quite some time – it was just a little bit embarrassing as Lily who is only 3 years old, was able to see the quick switches more than me!

Heading towards the back of the exhibit room, we enjoyed lots of fun with the robotic ‘pet’ toys. And there is one part of the exhibit you don’t want to miss. You can type your questions for a Robot to answer. This particular Robot was quite charming, animated and funny – and even when she didn’t know the answer to our questions, she knew exactly the direction we needed to go to find an answer. Lily and I both were both laughing when Lily typed, “Pdsdfklasdgo;E{Eru!3dfjasdfasd” into the computer, and the Robot replied, “I am not programmed to answer that question!”

Lily loved the sensor garden where lights controlled the actions of a robot. Light, sound, and even breathing can cause surprising results with the mechanical beings at this interactive display station near the end of the exhibit.

Robots + Us is an exhibit that has something appealing for all ages. Whether you’re 3 years old or an adult, you will be amazed at this exhibit. But be sure and allow enough time – we just did make it in time for the Flight of the Butterflies movie in the IMAX Dome. That is truly a must-see too.

Thanks to the Science Museum of Virginia for bringing so much fun, education, and amazement to all ages – we can’t wait to see Boost!

Science Museum of Virginia is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

http://www.smv.org

The Science Museum of Virginia has tons of events, exhibits, and family fun going on. Lots of events are happening right now so don’t miss them. Mark your calendars to take advantage of all of these fun activities. And be sure to visit our link to register to possibly win a family pack of 5-free tickets to Raise the Roof – we’re giving away one family pack of tickets each week through April, 2013.

Just have fun at the Museum by planning ahead for many of these upcoming events too!

(Visit the Museum website to confirm dates and times as they may change after posting).

You can also use your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver card for special savings on Fridays at the Science Museum.

Born to be Wild (film in IMAX^®DOME)

Now-Friday, May 24

Born to be Wild is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them — saving endangered species one life at a time. $9 general admission, $5 for members.

They Call It Stormy Weather: How Artists See the Weather and the Seasons

Now-Monday June 3

Explore artists’ depictions of weather from thunderstorms on powerful, wild seas to sunny skies above spring fields. The photographic reproductions are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.

Raise the Roof: An Exhibit About Buildings

Now-Sunday, April 28

If walls could talk, what would they say? Explore buildings and structures in a new light as you discover the stories behind the structures through a variety of interactive experiences. Included with exhibit admission.

http://www.smv.org

Architecture in Virginia: The Old Dominion

Friday, March 15-Sunday, May 12

Examine photographs and descriptions of 24 significant examples of Virginia architecture built primarily between 1780 and 1861. The collection is on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.

Rocky Mountain Express

Saturday, March 16-Friday, May 24

Join in the epic adventure of building Canada’s first transcontinental railway as you are propelled on a steam train journey through the Canadian Rockies. $9 general admission, $5 for members.

April E-Cycling

Monday, April 1-Tuesday, April 30

April is E-Cycle month at the Museum, benefitting VirginiaFIRST. Drop off unwanted electronic devices including computers, mp3s, smart phones, cell phones, televisions and other electronics for recycling. We accept broken and working equipment, batteries, cables and chargers, etc. Anything with data will be wiped to DOD standards. Free.

March Ratness

Thursday, April 4, 11 am

Cheer on your favorite basketball playing rats as they represent four top college teams and compete Science Museum of Virginia style! Included with Museum admission.

Junior Solar Sprint Workshop

Saturday, April 6, 10 am-noon

Discover the science behind a Junior Solar Sprint car as you learn how to build one. Up to 4 persons per team. Participants must have materials for the car. Kits are available for purchase through the Museum while supplies last. To register please call 804.864.1400. $10 registration, free for Museum members.

Nano Days

Saturday, April 6, 11 am-4 pm

Join us as we explore the world of the very small where things are one billionth of a meter or smaller. Included with exhibit admission.

Camp In

Friday, April 12-Saturday, April 13

Try your hand at designing and building structures, watch a giant-screen film in the IMAX^®DOME and explore Museum exhibits after hours at this fun overnight! $45 per child. $20 per adult. For every four children, one adult chaperone is required. Call 804.864.1400. 

VCU School of Engineering Senior Design Expo

Friday, April 19, 9:30 am-2:30 pm

If you are looking for something amazing, explore senior engineering projects designed by Virginia Commonwealth University students. One year a student designed a flying car, so this year’s designs should even be more spectacular. Free.

Chesterfield County Public Schools STEAM Fair

Saturday, April 20, 9:30 am-4 pm

Check out science in action as Chesterfield County Public School students demonstrate their science projects and compete in team challenges: Minute to Win It and STEAM Olympics. Included with exhibit admission.

Earth Day Rain Barrel Workshop – Sold Out

Saturday, April 20, 1-3 pm

Build a rain barrel for your home as you celebrate Earth Day and learn about conserving resources. Please call 804.864.1400 to reserve a space; seating is limited. $15/$10 for members.

National Weather Service SKYWARN Training Session

Saturday, April 20, 3-5 pm

Learn now to become a volunteer severe weather spotter! SKYWARN volunteers provide the National Weather Service with timely and accurate severe weather reports. Preregistration is required since space is limited. To register email Michael.Montefusco@noaa.gov. Free.

Girls in Medicine Camp In

Friday, May 10-Saturday, May 11

Middle School girls team up with women in the medical field to focus the variety of genetics opportunities while they explore careers in medicine. Sponsored by HCA Virginia Health System. $10 per person.

Junior Solar Sprint

Saturday, May 4, 10 am-3 pm

Cheer your favorite student team as sun-powered, race cars head toward the finish line. Registration per team is $10, including up to 4 team members and one adult. Pre-registration is required. Call 804.864.1400. Included with exhibit admission for general public, free for members.

Robots + Us

May 11-September 29

Explore differences between humans and robots by examining how lifelike machines imitate moving, sensing, thinking and being. Investigate robotics, computer science and biomedical engineering through enjoyable interactive exhibits and videos. Included with exhibit admission. Free for members

Flight of the Butterflies (film in IMAX^®DOME)

Saturday, May 25-Friday, September 6

Migrate with hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies across North America! Discover the hideaway of these magnificent creatures and immerse yourself in this compelling adventure. $9 general admission, $5 for members.

To The Arctic (film in IMAX^®DOME)

Saturday, May 25-Friday, September 6

Journey with a mother polar bear and her two cubs as they navigate the changing Arctic wilderness they call home. Captivating, adventurous, and intimate footage brings you up close and personal with this family´s struggle to survive and thrive. $9 general admission, $5 for member

Martini & A Movie

Thursday, May 2, 6-8 pm

Join members of the Universe Society for an evening of networking and seeing the giant screen film Grand Canyon Adventure. The Universe Society is a social group of young adults who promote the Museum. For reservations call 804.864.1548, email celliott@smv.org or visit https://support.smv.org/UniverseSocietyEvents. $20 or $15 for members.

Rain Barrel Workshop

Saturday, May 11, 1-3 pm

Build a rain barrel for your home as you celebrate Earth Day and learn about conserving resources. Please call 804.864.1400 to reserve a space; seating is limited. $15/$10 for members.

Rain Barrel Workshop

Saturday, May 30, 1-3 pm

Build a rain barrel for your home as you celebrate Earth Day and learn about conserving resources. Please call 804.864.1400 to reserve a space; seating is limited. $15/$10 for members.

The Science Museum of Virginia is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

I sat as far back from the rats as possible!

Have you heard that rats can play basketball? That’s what they were saying down at the Science Museum of Virginia.

This was one thing I just had to see for myself. I couldn’t imagine a rat doing anything other than scaring me to death. Basketball and rats are just not two things I usually think of together. After all, the thoughts of training a rat to do anything seems a bit impossible to me. So I headed down to the Museum to check it out.

Meeting up with Nancy Tait who works at the Museum is always a treat. She knows everything about the Museum so it’s fun to visit with her and hear all about what’s happening. As we walked toward the room where we would actually see rats playing basketball, I was still a bit skeptical.

But as Nancy continued to talk about all of the work and training that went into preparing these furry little creatures to exhibit their sporting skills, you could see that she wasn’t kidding.

And she was quite excited and obviously fond of the rats! (Okay, I’m still not quite ready to say I’m fond of rats of any sort at this point!).

Within minutes we were seated and right down in front of us on center stage were two scampering, energetic little rats – one white and one black. They were running up and down a young trainer’s arms, and all around his neck. They were extremely playful and lively but never tried to make a move into the audience (which was quite a relief to me!). The trainer explained that the rats have gone through rigorous training to become performers in the basketball arena. It takes many months of training and reinforcement to get them to learn the skills needed to perform.

And with that – they were off!

Each little rat quickly scrambled to capture the tiny little basketball and raced to dunk it through the hoop. Effortlessly and filled with energy, they raced from one goal to another – forcing the ball through the hoop and getting their reward each time they scored. Back and forth they ran with athletic ability and determination. My skepticism was quickly replaced with awe at how these little creatures had mastered the sport of basketball!

Source: http://smv.org/visit/events/event-details/march-ratness

The day we were at the Museum, there were dozens of young kids enjoying Rat Basketball too. The kids erupted into applause and laughter as the rats took their places on the basketball court. They laughed with delight each time one of the athletes grabbed the ball and scored a basket. The kids were mesmerized by the unbelievable show of talent.

After playing for quite some time, the white rat finally decided it was time to take a break and he skillfully climbed the wall to jump to the trainer’s hand and up his arm for a little R&R. That marked the end of the game!

Okay – so I didn’t think rats could really play basketball but they sure proved I was wrong. And as much as I hate to admit it, I left there kind of liking the cute little basketball champions – even though the trainer offered to let us hold one of the rates, I still was not ready to get that close to them!

Yep – they were definitely cute and amazing, but I still don’t want to see any rats in my house or garage playing anything!

March Ratness is Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 11am at the Science Museum of Virginia. It’s a fun event for kids and adults and you will be amazed at how much rats can do on the basketball court.  They will represent four top college teams and compete for the championship.  It’s free with admission to the Museum so head out and cheer on your favorite rat (or team). You won’t be disappointed.

Science Museum of Virginia is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Students engaged in outdoor physics with the Earth Kugel.

Congratulations to the Science Museum of Virginia! Their recent press release is included below with details of a new grant.

PRESS RELEASE: Richmond, VA (PRWEB) December 02, 2012

Learning Labs Foster Creativity, Collaboration and Skill-Building Through Creation in STEM and Beyond.

“This allows us to knit together two important components of our out-of-school time initiative to foster informal STEM learning within our own facility and throughout the state.” – Richard Conti, CWO, Science Museum of VA

The Science Museum of Virginia recently announced that it will receive one of 12 grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation to design a Learning Lab, a new space where young people can connect with mentors and peers, as well as new media and traditional materials to pursue their interests more deeply and connect these new skills to academics, career, and civic engagement. Inspired by YOUmedia, a teen space at the Chicago Public Library, and innovations in science and technology centers, these labs will help young people move beyond consuming content to making and creating it.

The 12 winners—five museums and seven libraries—will receive a total of $1.2 million in planning grants to plan and design the labs. The Science Museum of Virginia will receive $100,000 for the development of their lab. The grant is part of a second round of winners in a national competition to create 21st century labs in museums and libraries around the country.

Science Museum of Virginia Chef Wonder Officer Richard C. Conti added “We have been following the research from MacArthur and IMLS on digital learning as we have developed key pieces of our youth programming. This grant allows us to knit together two important components of our out-of-school time initiative to foster informal STEM learning within our own facility and through youth development agencies throughout the state.”

Each Learning Lab will be designed to facilitate a research-based education model known as connected learning – one that promotes discovery, creativity, critical thinking and real-world learning through activities and experiences that bring together academics and young people’s interests, often facilitated by digital and traditional media. The winning institutions will match the funds from the competition and partner with local educational, cultural, and civic organizations to build a network of learning opportunities for young people.

“Digital media are revolutionizing the way young people learn, socialize, and engage in civic life,” said Julia Stasch, Vice President of U.S. Programs for the MacArthur Foundation. “These innovative labs are designed to provide today’s youth with the space, relationships, and resources to connect their social worlds and interests with academics, and to better prepare them for success in the 21st century.”

“Because of the expertise and content we have to offer, museums and libraries are uniquely positioned to offer young people meaningful learning experiences that link to science, art, and technology,” said Susan Hildreth, Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “With caring mentors and skilled professionals on staff to guide teens in their exploration, Learning Labs help youth express themselves and hone their skills in a safe environment.”

“The Science Museum is a strategic partner in our effort to infuse out-of-school time with creative and meaningful learning opportunities that feel different to kids than in-school learning. We are very excited about the Science Museum’s plans with this grant to empower our kids to use digital media tools to problem solve, communicate, and connect with the community beyond their immediate surroundings.” – Todd McFarlane, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond

“Altria is proud to be an active partner with the Science Museum of Virginia, helping to engage middle-school kids in science, technology, engineering and math through unique learning experiences,” said Brian Quigley, president & CEO of one of Altria’s companies, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. “This prestigious grant is an important validation for the Science Museum as it works with Altria and others to equip kids with skills and knowledge they need for success in the future workforce.”

“Virginia Mentoring Partnership is pleased to play a role in the Science Museum of Virginia’s Out-of-School Time Youth STEM initiative for the IMLS MacArthur Digital Media Learning Lab grant. The collaboration between the SMV and VMP represents a marriage of best practices of positive youth development through mentoring and informal STEM learning. We look forward to continuing our work together through this innovative and exciting connected learning initiative.” Jennifer J. Smith-Slabaugh, Ph.D., Executive Director, Virginia Mentoring Partnership.

Along with Richmond, VA, the new Learning Labs are planned for: Dallas, TX; Madison, WI; Rochester, NY; Oakland, CA; Billings, MT; Poughkeepsie, NY; Tucson, AZ; Tuscaloosa, AL; Pittsburgh, PA; Lynn, MA; and Las Vegas, NV).

These new grantees join 12 additional communities also planning new learning centers in libraries and museums as a part of the Learning Labs in Libraries and Museums project. The initiative was first announced in September 2010 in response to President Obama’s “Educate to Innovate” campaign, an effort to foster cross-sector collaboration to improve America’s students’ participation and performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Since then, MacArthur and IMLS have committed to invest $4 million to support knowledge-sharing activities for museums and libraries nationwide, and work together to create new Learning Labs across the nation.

Urban Libraries Council (ULC) and the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) will continue to manage and guide the Learning Lab grantee community to ensure that each new space embodies best practice principles, based on research and evidence in the field of youth digital learning, to help young people gain 21st century skills and an effective STEM education.

The 12 recipients of this round of grants were selected out of a pool of 105 applicants from 33 states and one territory. Applications were evaluated by professionals with relevant expertise in digital media and learning, as well as museum and library management. Winners will participate—in-person and online—in a community of practice that will provide technical assistance, networking, and cross-project learning. To learn more about the Learning Labs Project, visit http://www.imls.gov or Youmedia.org.

We’re proud to partner with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond (DSAGR) and are making a donation for each entrant in this contest.

Our 2011 Real Cute Kids Grand Prize Winner, Joshua R. Isn’t he adorbs?

We’re starting voting 8/20/12 through 8/30/12 right here on Richmondmom.com with  photos taken by August 10 by Real Life Studios. If you entered online but did not have a photo taken, we’re sorry but you’ll have to wait until next year to enter.

First place in each age category will receive a $600 package from Real Life Studios including a free family portrait session and 16 X 20 gallery wrap.

1st Runners up in each category receive a free family portrait session and one 5X7 valued at $200, for a total of $3200 in prizes from Real Life Studios.

Great Wolf Lodge - Grand Prize overnight stay package valued at $575!

Signed copies for winners in each age group (valued at $54) and over $300 in Richmond Rocks books for the first 25 entrants to purchase a package of $50 or more (no purchas is required; this is our gift for those who do purchase!)

A Fun Bus Birthday Party valued at $210 from Fun Bus of Hanover/Henrico.

Emerge Hair Salon – $100 in kids haircut; mom’s blowout/style, and hair/skin products!

3 prizes of 10 free passes each in the first three age categories  to Richmond Kangaroo Jac’s.

One-hour Mickey’s Magic Show with Jack the Bunny valued at $129.

Sewinit – A monogrammed pillow with a value of $50

Hip to be Round – $50 gift card toward Tea Party collection for 0-2 category winner

Kimberly Woodson of Farmers Insurance Agency – an engraved picture frame worth $50

Science Museum of Virginia – Supernova Membership (value $99) to the grand prize winner and family 4-packs (value – $44 per pack) to the winner in each age-range.

Theatre IV – Family 4-Pack of Tickets to the Virginia Rep’s YOUNG TOM JEFFERSON at the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn or Hanover Tavern – $64 value

Mom’s Treehouse:  (0-2)  4-Stroller Strides classes, (3-5 ) 4-art classes, (6-8) 4-martial arts classes, (9-11) 4-martial arts classes

Healthy Little Chef – Two $20 gift cards

World of Mirth – $50 Gift Card

Sweet Spot Gift Certificate for $50 towards birthday party, candy, or treat bags

Kinsights – “Helping Grow Healthy Kids, Together” – is providing a $25 Amazon Gift Card