It is actually quite an exciting time to have just become new members. A little more than a year ago there were not year long membership opportunities so we went to other places who had 12 month family plans. Today we decided to take our 4 Ewoks (from 5 years to 6 months) as a special rainy get out of the house and out from underneath Dad's umbrella day and found they have an extremely well thought out 12 month family plan now, are currently beginning a large expansion, have begun extra curricular activities they didn't used to offer and the membership includes entrance for special events. We did not break the budget on this membership, of course anything financial on a budget has sacrifice and consequences attached, but we were able to see a day come in the future where we will earn the membership as if it had become cash flow rather than debit paid. On top of the benefits we again, same as our last visits, found clean bathrooms, kind staff, fun and diverse parents to engage with whose children (the same as our own) don't see skin pigment, price tags on clothes or anyone other than a potential playmate to explore and discover around. There is a painting and crafts room, tons of learn by activity and play areas, and I have observed, so far in our few times, having visited during rainy and cold days when the parking lot is full you still have space to move around freely. So there is a lot to be said bout how they have chosen to arrange the space they have. It was well worth what we spent as a special treat today, but again we are a "FIND THAT MEMBERSHIP" kind of family who absolutely has to keep a sensible budget in order to simultaneously carry a bank account with anything more than mothballs to show for the efforts and sacrifices. And they have a good one. We were glad to be there. And we are happy to be members and help support their...
Read moreMy sister-in-law gave us a family membership for Christmas for out 16 month old this year, and in my two trips we have had a fantastic time. Lots of places to see and explore, and a city layout that offers many teaching opportunities. One of my favorite activities is to collect eggs from the chicken, deliver them to the grocery store, and then purchase them for the restaurant. What a story to teach my child as she gets to the proper age to understand.
Some of the areas, such as the tree house, engineering area, and GI tract are a bit advanced for my baby, but I look forward to her growing up and discovering these when she is ready.
I have yet to dive in to the craft area or discover if any guided programs are available, and the area that I assume will change seasonally (currently Packers themed) is a bit on the smaller side. I also have no idea what any of this would have cost my family if it weren't a gift.
I am also somewhat bothered by the parents that don't get involved and turn the attraction into an open playground. I haven't had any issues with an unsupervised child misbehaving yet, but it is a little irritating when all of the chairs in a particular area are occupied by adults with no child in sight.
I hope to make good use of this beautiful gift and service to the community, and can't wait to witness my baby's next...
Read moreI have been going here for over a year (across the street from Bay Beach). All of the staff has always been friendly. Some days, we have had the run of the place because there are maybe 1 or 2 families. Other times, it's been so full that finding a parking spot was difficult. To me, there has always been enough room inside to move around for the Littles. Granted, it always depends on others and their kindness and thoughtfulness towards your fellow man, but I haven't had any issues. I would say that over 10 years of age, is too "mature" for the exhibits, but 2-9 (going on 10), is perfect. Your little will find something they like. We became members before the Splash Table was installed, and we had high hopes for it. My children actually preferred the temporary stage exhibit they had to fill the area while waiting for the splash table. I think the splash table has been a little underwhelming for everyone. Younger toddlers probably enjoy it because they can get wet, but there isn't a lot of current or bubbling fountains, so it's boring for older children. The digestive system has always been a hit. As has the outside exhibits. For $10 a month, it's better than Netflix, because your children are actually having their brains stimulated...
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