Central PA’s Nonprofit Center for the Arts

Little Learners

Little Learners at Whitaker Center is an interactive STEAM program filled with lots of fun and hands on activities! We will sharpen our science process skills as we experiment, read, explore, sing, and create! Learners will have time for structured weekly activities as well as time to explore our KidsPlace exhibit.

Dates and Times

Every program takes place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m in KidsPlace.

Please note, the rest of the science center will NOT be available for exploration after the conculsion of Little Learners at 11am.

Science and Art!

In November, we will explore the connections between science and art! Both art and science require the science process skills of observation, communication, and experimentation as well as a big helping of creativity. We will make some inspired art while experimenting with scientific ideas.

November 10 - Shape
November 17 - Nature Art
November 24 - Color

Innovation

In December, we will celebrate the opening of our Innovation Zone by examining kid friendly technology. From low tech screwdrivers and flashlights, to high tech robots, we have something for everyone to explore.

December 1 - Fix It
December 8 - Electricty
December 15 - Robotics
December 22 - Engineering
December 29 - Winter Celebration! Don't forget to check out Olaf's Frozen Adventure in the cinema the morning of December 29th!

PA Farm Show

In January, we celebrate the 106th PA Farm Show by focusing on all things agricultural. We will learn about the people who work on the farm, the tools they use, and the plants and animals they care for.

January 5 - Moo to Cluck - Farm Animals
January 12 - Grown in PA - Farm Plants
January 19 - Farmers in Action
January 26 - Tractors to Dairy Robots - Farm Tools & Equipment

Winter

In February, we will use our science process skills to learn all about winter. We will find out about cold temperatures, snow, and how plants, animals, and people cope with the season.

February 2 - Winter Weather
February 9 - Plants in Winter
February 16 - Animals in Winter
February 23 - People in Winter

Cost:

$10 per child non-member

$3 per child member

Each child ticket includes admission for one accompanying adult.

If inquiring about complimentary admission with an ACCESS card, please contact education@whitakercenter.org to discuss the registration process.

Tickets may be purchased at the Box Office within Whitaker Center. Tickets will be available the morning of the program or in advance for the coming weeks.

Who needs a ticket:

Every child that is crawling or walking and participating in all or part of the program will need a ticket. If young children are being carried in a pack, sling, or will remain in the stroller, they do not need a ticket.

Additionally, we realize many families have school-age children learning remotely at home. You are invited to purchase them a ticket and have them join in the program. Just keep in mind, the activities are planned for children ages two to six years old and all stations may not be developmentally appropriate for older children.

Registration:

Pre-registration is suggested, but not required. Walk-ups will be permitted the day of the program until all program seats are filled.

Other Details:

All participants must enter the Center at our 3rd Street doors.

A Whitaker Center staff member will meet participants at the door to admit them into the Center.

Given new CDC guidelines Whitaker Center is requiring all individuals grade 12 and under wear a mask during their time Whitaker Center. Those older than 12th grade are highly encouraged to wear a mask as the majority of Whitaker Center patrons are not yet eligible to receive a vaccination against Covid-19.

Thank you to Penn National Insurance for sponsoring this program.

This program and many others are part of the