As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, The Iowa Children’s Museum is inviting kids and families to explore community, connection, and civic literacy through play.

From Memorial Day through the week of the Fourth of July, “We, the Kids” activities will introduce children to big ideas in kid-friendly, hands-on ways. Children might design their own community using wooden blocks and imaginative materials, create a model of the night sky while learning about our place in the world, or discover simple ways they can help and participate in their own neighborhoods. Activities are designed to spark curiosity, conversation, and community-minded thinking through play. These activities build on our “Use Your VOICE Day” event, held each year on election day, which introduces children to the many ways they can engage with their community and make their voices heard.

Regular “We, the Kids” activities will take place Wednesdays from 3–5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9–11 a.m., leading up to the Fourth of July.

During the week of the Fourth of July, the museum will also welcome special pop-in guests on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, including the Iowa City Bike Library sharing bike basics and simple repair skills, and a local educator helping kids explore how composting and caring for the earth can strengthen communities.