LaunchPAD

If you noticed my last post about Thinker Toys, I decided to follow through with the kid-friendly theme, and write about our LaunchPAD Children’s Museum we have here in Sioux City.

I remembered when it opened, and not wanting to go in since I don’t have young kids, but now that I have a better understanding of small businesses and our community out-reach programs, I decided to make my initial visit last month.

My first visit

It was a snowy day, and I was not able to get a good picture of the exterior, so instead I went to their Facebook page and found one.

I was allowed to walk around and take pictures once I introduced myself to the front desk employee, and that this was my initial visit. However, normally there is an admission fee.

Members: FREE

Under 12 months: FREE

Ages 1-65: $8

Seniors 65+: $6

Military: $6

Teachers: Free (Must show ID)

The first thing I saw when I walked in was a 50-foot foyer line with child-size lockers on the right, and local business names on the left, all of which donate and contribute to LaunchPAD.

Community support

Fun fact, I read on their Facebook page: Through the “generous support of individuals and corporations in the Siouxland region, as well as the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the city of Sioux City, LaunchPAD…successfully raised more than $7 million to fully fund the facility’s construction and exhibits.” How exciting! That’s amazing.

As I walked around, I saw favorable mentions promoting our local community and small businesses, which I was pleasantly surprised to see. There are references to Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota in every corner, from farm animals to small-town diners, and crop-growing to the farmer’s market.

Build zone

After I walked past the front hallway, I saw a huge activity area named “Build Zone”. With building blocks strewn everywhere, I saw stations where children can assemble their Lego creations, role play on “construction sites”, and act as an “engineer”.

Water table

Next, I noticed the “Water Table”. Children learn about the role water plays in our daily lives, how rivers maneuver and flow, and what animals are found in our local habitats.

The Café and the market

Across from the “Water Table” is “The Café” and “The Market”. Here children will learn how valuable it is to incorporate team work to complete tasks. While role playing, children will also learn the importance of including a variety of foods and produce into their diet, where the source of food begins, the familiarity of a routine grocery store visit, and what it takes to run a restaurant.

Agriculture

Further down is the “Agriculture” area. Here, children are able to experience what it’s like to manage farm equipment, how crops are processed through this equipment, and the daily routines of a farmer.

The wind wall and flight zone

All along the windows is the Wind Wall, which is a large portion of the “Flight Zone”. Here children will learn differing and unique ways of air flow and how it manipulates objects. Also included in the “Flight Zone” is a Rocketship Playhouse! It was too small for me to completely crawl in; however, it consists of activities demonstrating gravity, and children can even create their own constellations!

But wait there’s more!

But that’s not all of the exhibits in LaunchPAD! Visitors will be able to interact with the “Play and Discover” center, encouraging children to learn facts about themselves and their community.

There are classrooms where instructor led events are held, including multiple art projects, skill building sessions, and story-time. As well as, cognitive stimulation, problem solving and critical thinking activities.

Check out their website (launchpadmuseum.com) for a list of various programs and parties that are held every week, all of which encourage communication skills amongst participants. These interactive classes will keep your children entertained and excited about getting involved.

Memberships

To become a member sign up online, or visit the museum in person. I’m only listing the benefits you receive with the $99/year membership package below. However, there are two other options that give you even more access and perks.

• Unlimited visits to the museum for one year for up to 2 adults living at the same address and up to six dependent children under age 18 residing in the same household.
• Members-only hours every Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-10:00 a.m., and Sunday 11:00-12:00p.m.
• 2 free daily admission tickets to bring friends along. (Daily admission tickets are only good for one time use.)
• 15% off rentals of the entire museum, birthday party rooms and meeting rooms.

Volunteer

LaunchPAD welcomes volunteers from age 14 on up. High school or college students may want credit for their volunteer hours. Helpers wanting to assist in Day Care retreats, Special Olympics events or even Field Trips are welcome.

A volunteer application must be downloaded, filled out, then emailed for review. I know once I finish wedding planning I’d like to start volunteering with several agencies around town, this being one.

Plan your visit

623 Pearl St
Sioux City, IA 51101
712-224-2542

Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tues – Wed: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Fri – Sun: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.