How do we become a Chicago Children's Museum community partner?
Chicago Children's Museum is proud to partner with local and national organizations and individuals to benefit families in Chicago and beyond. Partnerships include mutually beneficial relationships with community-based organizations, parents, teachers, children, artists, performers, service providers, institutional partners, and others.
If you're looking to partner with us, please contact one of our Community Programs Managers. Many of our partners are 501(c)(3) non-profit organization who serve low-income families and are eligible for Free and Discounted Visits. To learn more, click here.
How does Chicago Children's Museum engage families who may not have access to the museum on their own?
Chicago Children's Museum's work with community partners allows us to provide unique access opportunities to underserved communities. The museum is committed to providing meaningful learning opportunities for families throughout Chicago by offering an array of flexible, discounted visit options to 501(c)(3) organizations who serve low-income families. This includes discounted family memberships, group visits, transportation, and more. Please check out our Free and Discounted Visits page to learn more.
Is there a way my family can visit the museum for a reduced or free price?
There are several ways your family can visit the museum for free or at a reduced price. Visit on a Kraft Free Family Night, every Thursday evening from 5-8pm, when admission is free for everyone. You can also visit on a Target First Free Sunday, when admission is free for children 15 and under. If you're a resident of Chicago, you can pick up a Kids Museum Pass at a local Chicago Public Library to gain free admission to Chicago Children's Museum and other Chicago museums!
How do I enroll my family in the Community Family Membership Program?
Community Family Memberships are designed to suit the needs of low-income families and are only sold through partnering 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. To be eligible for this discounted membership, you must be an active participant at one of Chicago Children's Museum's partnering sites. If you are not a participant at a partnering site, please see the question above for information about how to visit the museum for free.
I am a staff member at a Chicago Public School that serves a majority of low-income students. Is my school qualified for discounted visits?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer you discounted visits through your school because Chicago Children's Museum works hard to ensure that programs for schools are already greatly subsidized with the help of our supporters. If your school partners with a 501(c)(3) non-profit that works within a school, however, and has proof of the 501(c)(3) status, we may be able to serve your children through our Free and Discounted Visits.
Will Chicago Children's Museum provide activities in my community?
Yes, we would be delighted to provide activities at your site! Please see our listing of CCM To Go workshops. The museum also provides playful learning experiences at special events, such as health, family, back-to-school, and community-based events. Please see our CCM Around the Town page for more details.
How far in advance do I need to register my group visit?
You must register for your visit at least one month in advance. Whether you're booking a visit for a Kraft Free Family Night or a self-guided visit keep in mind that we have limited timeslots for groups. For better chances of getting your visit reserved for the timeslot you want, please book as far in advance as possible.
Will I receive a confirmation letter?
You will receive a confirmation letter prior to your visit. We suggest that you print and bring this letter on the day of your visit for easy check-in.
Does Chicago Children's Museum have any educational resources that I can share with parents or other educators?
Absolutely! The museum encourages parents, teachers, and caretakers to support children's learning experiences. Our Resources encourage learning in many environments – at home, in the classroom, during out of school programs, and at the museum. Find activities that you can bring into the classroom, as well as resources that will prepare parents for their upcoming self-guided trip.