Kids Town
Shop in the grocery store, change a tire, wash the car, and drive a CTA bus in this cityscape built just for kids. This urban neighborhood promotes role-playing, problem-solving, emerging literacy, and creative exploration through fun and absorbing activities. Nurse a baby or relax with a toddler in the semi-private Caregiver Nook. Includes special area for babies and toddlers.
How Adults Can Support Playful Learning in Kids Town
Take cues from the child on how they want you to join their play: Ride in the bus as they drive? Purchase groceries as they work the cash register? In each scenario, help carry the scene forward and expand conversation. What’s the next stop, bus driver? What’s on sale at the store today, grocer?
Use specific vocabulary while taking the role of co-player or play leader. Let’s wash the car! Let’s use the soft brush to scrub the hood of this blue car.
Note that some items in the grocery store are non-descript (small wooden blocks and blank containers). Ask the child what the item could be, allowing them to stretch their imagination and tap into their own knowledge of familiar or favorite food items that may not otherwise be represented in the store.
Discover more opportunities for growth in development and how to support children’s learning through play at Chicago Children’s Museum. Explore the Supporting Learning Through Play Guide here!