Children's Programs

Whether a pirate, Civil War sailor, or archaeologist, the banks of the Cape Fear River are the place to be this summer! Programming is designed for vacationers as well as locals with one-day, two-day, and one week programs.  

Discover life on the sea through history. The Lower Cape Fear is filled with adventure! Learn about creatures below and how they live. Take a boat ride and understand our environment. Walk along the banks and hold the past in your hands. There are programs for all ages and all interests.

Shrimp & Shrimping - June14, 9 a.m.-noon

Learn about our local favorite – the shrimp! Participants will take a trip on a working shrimp boat and trawl for sea life. No class on shrimp is complete without learning how to cook, peel, and eat them onboard. Be prepared for being stinky and messy! All children must wear skid resistant, closed toe shoes and clothes they can get wet or muddy. Please make sure to apply sunscreen before class and bring a water bottle. Participants must provide their own life jacket and meet at the dock at the Old Yacht Basin. $20.00/child. Ages 8-12.

Kids on Deck! River Boat Tour aboard the Solomon T - June19, 8-10 a.m.

Conduct scientific experiments, bird watch off Battery Island, and learn the history of the Cape Fear River aboard a traditional wooden NC Workboat. Instructor: Captain Bert Felton. Participants must wear skid resistant closed toe shoes. Bring water and a snack. Please apply sunscreen before class. $10.00/child. Ages 8-12.

Native American Series - June 25-26, 10 a.m.-noon

Two-day class. What did Native Americans on the coast of North Carolina eat? What clothing and jewelry did they wear? Participants will hear guest speakers from the Lumbee tribe discuss clothing, jewelry, and other textile mediums that define their culture. Hands-on activities include pottery and construction techniques of longhouses. $15.00/child. Ages 7-11.

Fish Prints - June 27, 10 a.m.- noon

Gyotaku, a Japanese word meaning fish impression, solves the age old problem of fish tales. This fish will not get larger as the story is retold! Children will learn how to create fish prints using real and faux fish on natural fibers such as paper and fabric. Participants will decorate a T-shirt of their very own to take home. Dress for mess as this program will be slimy and colorful! $10.00/child. Ages 7 - 11.

Squishy Fishes - June 28, 11 a.m.-noon

Back by popular demand and redesigned for younger campers, this class is full of colorful, creative fun! Working along with your child, participants will learn about Gyotaku and make their own fish prints on textiles. A keepsake to treasure for years to come, your purple flounder or red sea star can adorn your refrigerator with pride! This is a very messy activity so dress accordingly. $5.00/child. Ages 4-6 with adult.

Registration

Pre-registration is required for all programs. Call the Museum at (910) 457-0003, or print a Children's Program Registration Form and return it to the museum.