‘Never a dull moment; at aMuse’um there is always something going on’

The best way to learn is through fun activities, and Columbia, Tennessee, offers that and much more. When children visit aMuse’um Children’s Museum, they experience art and science through games. The activities at the museum would let you connect with your children to help them learn as many of the events encourage parents’ involvement.

Erin Jaggers, tourism director for Maury County, Tennessee, invites you to Columbia and have fun exploring and playing at the museum.

“This is a place where not only kids can use their imagination but also they can learn, think and create,” Jaggers said. “It is such a special place to have in Maury County.”

Reagan Clayborne, retail specialist of aMuse'um Children's Museum, loves seeing the smiling faces of children and adults, from visitors and locals who walk downtown and peek in the windows, to staff members greeting each guest, to children and their families playing and learning at the museum.

“Once you step inside you can hear the excitement and it is truly a fun environment,” Clayborne said. “I love when I mention I work at the museum and immediately hear someone say they have visited and how much fun the children and the adults had. Our community loves the museum, and it shows.”

All involved in the operation of the museum, from staff members and management to the board of directors, are invested in providing the best possible experience to visitors and to keep the museum “moving in the right direction,” Clayborne said.

"It is so rewarding to see families bring their children and watch them grow individually but also (to see) the family grow,” Clayborne said. “Chances are we know the kids and parents by name. That is what makes aMuse’um so special, the families that step inside the front doors each day.”

The museum offers activities promoting creativity. One of the events – dubbed Messy Monday – allows children to use shaving cream and playdough to create art. Science Saturday provides opportunities for children to conduct simple experiments and to “explore the scientific method and foster a desire to explore and discover.”

“When you visit the museum you can expect fun,” Clayborne said. “Our mission is to spark unbridled learning for young children from all backgrounds through play. aMuse'um is a resource for the community to have a place to come and play, learn and grow. You can also expect encouragement. aMuse’um encourages its visitors to think, learn and create. Whether you play for the day in our exhibits, attend a program, participate in a weekly activity or have your birthday party here, we hope that you walk away having learned something or tried something new. The museum helps spark creativity, imaginative play and encourages big ideas while still keeping with the small-town experience.”

Plan a trip to Maury County and to enjoy the exciting activities at the museum.

“If you are thinking about visiting the museum and haven’t yet, I encourage you to check it out,” she said. “There is never a dull moment; at aMuse’um there is always something going on. If you are looking for a way to spend the day, this is the place for your family.”

The events at the museum appeal to a wide audience, said Clayborne.

“Some examples include our Golf Tournament fundraiser, Food Truck Festival, Daddy Daughter and Mother Son Dances,” she said. “Also, on our calendar each year are the Princess and Superhero parties, Cookies with Santa, and our Llama Llama PJ Party. Follow us on Instagram @amuseumchildrensmuseum or Facebook @amuseumccm to stay in the know.”

Children need to play daily.

“We not only advocate for them to play, but we also encourage you to play with them,” Clayborne said. “Bring the family, make a day out of it, and then grab a meal downtown. We are always looking for ways to enhance each family’s experience with new unique exhibits and activities. You can leave knowing that you supported a local nonprofit, and your family had a great time.”

Browse the store before you are ready to explore Columbia. The museum recently added a Toy Shop experience with the idea to carry fun and educational toys that encourage play at home, said Clayborne. You can also visit the shop online.

Follow the exciting time spent at the museum with a great meal. Several eateries in the area welcome you to enjoy delicious food. One of them is Red 7 Pizza, where you can get creative with pizza toppings – from mozzarella, goat cheese, feta, pepperoni, sausage and chicken to black olives, peppers, tomato and pineapple – and create your own tasty art piece.