Our region is brimming with diverse museums that educate, entertain and enhance a child’s understanding of culture. Now that parents are looking for indoor activities again, we catch up with what’s going on at two fascinating local museums that opened — or reopened — this year.

Honoring a legacy

The Wing Luke Asian Museum moved to its permanent home in the historic East Kong Yick Building this year, and opened to the public in June. The new location magnifies Wing Luke’s (the museum’s namesake and first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest) dream of preserving the history and culture of the Asian community. “We want to expand the stories of Asian Americans in the Pacific Northwest, as well as preserve and share the histories of the tenants who once lived here,” says education coordinator Ammara Hun.

The renovated space contrasts modern galleries and art installations with original architecture and salvaged building materials, offering visitors a visually stunning and historically significant experience. The exhibit “Honoring Our Journey” shares the histories and cultures of different Asian groups, and the diverse displays elsewhere in the museum provide an opportunity to talk with your child about important issues, including immigration, social justice and stereotypes.

“KidPLACE” is all about — you guessed it — kids! This exhibit frequently changes so there is always something new to explore. The space currently features “Everyone Can Dance,” a celebration of dance genres. After learning a bit about dance history, kids can try on costumes and test out some moves on the dance floor. “The kids love the interactive aspect of this exhibit,” says Hun. Upcoming exhibits will focus on the lunar new year and animation.

The museum hosts Family Day at the Wing on the third Saturday of each month. This free event offers a two-hour, artist-led activity corresponding to a museum exhibit. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to have an interactive learning experience,” says Vivian Chan, community program coordinator at Wing Luke.

Future family-day activities will highlight the new Native Hawaiian exhibit. “We always try to have kid-focused activities here at the museum,” says Chan. “We want them to have a good time and leave with a smile on their faces.”

Representing a community

A long-awaited dream was realized when the Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) opened its doors in March 2008. “The African American experience in this region has traditionally been overlooked in institutions, museums and public schools,” says deputy director and education director Brian J. Carter. “This museum gives us a chance to have our stories told.”

Housed in the century-old Colman Elementary School, the museum radiates art, culture and history from its exhibits, galleries and even from the walls of the building itself. The school was scheduled for demolition, but community activists stepped in and occupied the abandoned building, saving the landmark. “They came in and wanted to turn this into an African American museum and cultural center, but they weren’t able to get the support they needed,” says Carter. “They kept the dream and the building alive. We owe them a debt of gratitude.”

The Journey Gallery introduces visitors to the rich African American experience. “It’s the place to begin if you don’t know a lot about our history,” says Carter. A detailed timeline weaves together Northwest and national history, and the colorful, interactive displays keep kids engaged. There are pages to turn, buttons to push, music to hear, and doors to open.

Consider gathering a group and booking a docent-led tour. “We have some really great docents from the community,” Carter says. “They make the content appealing to children by changing their tone, their approach and their language.”

NAAM offers many programs for kindergarteners and older kids, including art workshops and seminars. The museum’s multimedia learning center hosts a genealogy seminar that is a popular multigenerational activity. “Families from all ethnic backgrounds can come in and look up genealogical information and learn a little bit about their family history,” says Carter.

The museum offers something for everyone. “I don’t think it’s ever too early to introduce a child to a museum,” says Carter, who regularly brings his 1-year-old son. “We want to show that this community resource is a safe, accessible place.”

Abbey McGee is an Everett-based freelance writer and mother of two preschoolers.

GO

Wing Luke Asian Museum
719 S. King St., Seattle
206-623-5124
Open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
$5–$8, younger than 5 are free.
Free admission first Thursday and third Saturday of the month.

Northwest African American Museum
2300 S. Massachusetts St., Seattle
206-518-6000
Open at 11 a.m. Wednesday-Saturday, noon on Sundays.
$4–$6, younger than 5 are free.
Free admission on the first Thursday of every month.