At Tullie House Museum in Carlisle we are piloting a discovery play space for families. In a first for the museum, the Tullie Explorers Gallery uses our permanent collections as inspiration for a gallery space that is specifically targeted at under 8s.
The space is divided into four areas. In History Play families can dig in an archaeological sandpit, create Lego models of Hadrian’s Wall and match labels to collection objects.
In Art Play activities such as clay modelling encourage families to get creative surrounded by prints from our collection. Nature Play includes mounted specimens of Cumbrian animals on the walls and a mini-beast hunt.
The fourth area features soft play equipment. The idea behind the gallery is for families to learn and play together in a safe and inviting space. The space is also attracting new visitors – including soft play has made the museum feel more familiar and accessible for first-time visitors.
Feedback has been incredibly positive with comments focusing on how easy it is to learn through sensory play in the gallery. This positive feedback has given us the evidence we need to consider a permanent gallery space for families.
The space is divided into four areas. In History Play families can dig in an archaeological sandpit, create Lego models of Hadrian’s Wall and match labels to collection objects.
In Art Play activities such as clay modelling encourage families to get creative surrounded by prints from our collection. Nature Play includes mounted specimens of Cumbrian animals on the walls and a mini-beast hunt.
The fourth area features soft play equipment. The idea behind the gallery is for families to learn and play together in a safe and inviting space. The space is also attracting new visitors – including soft play has made the museum feel more familiar and accessible for first-time visitors.
Feedback has been incredibly positive with comments focusing on how easy it is to learn through sensory play in the gallery. This positive feedback has given us the evidence we need to consider a permanent gallery space for families.