Get Ready to ‘Set Sail’ into the New School Year on August 24!

Ahoy, future scholars and adventurers! On August 24th, as summer winds down, prepare to embark on an unforgettable voyage at Port Discovery for our annual back-to-school event— Set Sail for School!

Join us alongside our incredible Baltimore community partners for a day packed with school-related resources, engaging activities, and fabulous free giveaways. Whether you’re gearing up for the new school year or just looking for a fun-filled day out, we’ve got something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get ready for school in style while having a ton of fun! 

 

WBAL TV 11 News: Port Discovery Children's Museum to welcome kids to 'Set Sail for School'

Art Projects

Create a Fidget Toy

Get ready for school by making your very own bead snake fidget! Join us for a fun and creative workshop where you’ll design and create a personalized fidget toy using colorful beads and elastic cords. This hands-on activity is perfect for kids who love to craft and want a cool, custom fidget toy to help them stay focused and calm during the school day.

Details:

  • Activity: Bead Snake Fidget Toy Creation
  • Materials Provided: Colorful beads, elastic cords, and crafting tools
  • Age Group: Suitable for children aged 5 and up
  • Benefits: Enhances fine motor skills, creativity, and provides a fun, tactile tool for focus and relaxation.
Duct Tape Pencil Cases

Make your very own pencil case out of a bag and duct tape! Join us for a creative and practical workshop where you’ll transform a simple bag into a stylish and functional pencil case using colorful and patterned duct tape. This activity is perfect for kids who enjoy hands-on projects and want to start the school year with a unique, custom-made pencil case.

Details:

  • Activity: Duct Tape Pencil Case Creation
  • Materials Provided: Bags, various colors and patterns of duct tape, and crafting tools
  • Age Group: Suitable for children aged 6 and up
  • Benefits: Encourages creativity, resourcefulness, and provides a personalized, practical school supply.

Come and create a one-of-a-kind pencil case that’s as unique as you are!

Storytime & Performances

Teddy Talk: The First Day of School

Join us for Teddy Talks! This informative and engaging special back-to-school themed presentation is perfect for both little and big kids as they prepare for the first day of school. Featuring lively puppets and morale-boosting lessons, this program aims to ease any back-to-school jitters and equip children with the confidence they need for a successful start to the school year.

Details:

  • Activity: Puppet Show and Back-to-School Lessons
  • Presented By: Public Programming Team
  • Age Group: Suitable for children of all ages
  • Benefits: Builds confidence, provides useful tips for the first day of school, and fosters a positive attitude towards learning.

Get ready for a fun and uplifting experience with Teddy Talks as we gear up for an exciting new school year!

Adventure Expedition Storytime

Travel back in time with our Public Programming team and listen to exciting adventurous stories based on our Adventure Expedition exhibit! This immersive storytime session will transport children to different eras and far-off places through captivating tales of exploration and adventure. Perfect for young history buffs and budding adventurers, this program combines education and entertainment in an engaging storytelling format.

Details:

  • Activity: Storytime with Adventure Expedition Themes
  • Presented By: Public Programming Team
  • Age Group: Suitable for children aged 4 and up
  • Benefits: Fosters a love of reading, stimulates imagination, and provides educational insights into historical adventures.

Join us for a thrilling journey through time and let your imagination soar with our Adventure Expedition Storytime!

Hands-On Activities

Seashell the Mermaid

Dive into a magical adventure with Seashell the Mermaid! Join us for a delightful bubble blowing bonanza where children can interact with Seashell and learn the art of creating beautiful bubbles in an enchanting underwater setting. This imaginative and interactive program is perfect for mermaid enthusiasts and aspiring bubble artists alike.

Details:

  • Activity: Bubble Blowing Session with Seashell the Mermaid
  • Presented By: Seashell the Mermaid
  • Age Group: Suitable for all ages
  • Benefits: Encourages creativity, sensory exploration, and imaginative play.

Come and join Seashell the Mermaid for a whimsical experience filled with bubbles, laughter, and underwater magic!

Peake the Pup(pet) – Bedtime Routine

Join Peake the Pup(pet) for an adorable bedtime-themed presentation! This special hands-on program focuses on the importance of bedtime routines and offers tips for a calming and enjoyable bedtime experience for children. With Peake the Pup leading the way, children will learn about bedtime habits through storytelling, interactive activities, and gentle guidance, making bedtime routines fun and stress-free for the whole family.

Details:

  • Activity: Interactive Storytelling and Bedtime Routine Tips
  • Presented By: Peake the Pup(pet) and Public Programming Team
  • Age Group: Suitable for children aged 2 to 6
  • Benefits: Promotes healthy sleep habits, enhances storytelling skills, and fosters a positive bedtime routine.

Join us for a cozy and educational journey with Peake the Pup as we discover the magic of bedtime routines together!

Set Sail for School at Port Discovery offers kids and their families a great start to going back to school and entering Pre-K! It’s all about supporting success in school—from our partners who are there to offer resources and services to our museum activities that reinforce positive parenting skills for caregivers as they develop healthy routines at home. And of course, we will have plenty of fun on hand too, including jump roping, puppet shows and DIY back-to school art projects!

Dr. Rachel Demma, Vice President of Learning, Visitor Experience & Community Engagement
Port Discovery Children's Museum

2024 Special Guests & Local Partners

  • Baltimore City Health Department-COVID Vaccine

    The Baltimore City Health Department – COVID Vaccine initiative is a program dedicated to administering COVID-19 vaccines to residents of Baltimore City. It aims to promote vaccination as a crucial tool in controlling the spread of the virus, protecting public health, and ensuring community resilience. The program provides information, access to vaccination clinics, and outreach efforts to encourage widespread vaccination coverage among all eligible individuals in the city.

    By offering information, access to vaccines, and addressing concerns about vaccination, the initiative supports public health efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus within the school community and broader population. This presence helps empower families with the knowledge and resources needed to protect themselves and others, fostering a healthier learning environment for students and educators alike.

  • Baltimore City Health Department-Tobacco Education and Cessation

    The Baltimore City Health Department – Tobacco Education and Cessation program focuses on reducing tobacco use and promoting smoking cessation within the Baltimore community. It provides educational resources, support services, and outreach initiatives aimed at preventing tobacco-related diseases and improving public health outcomes. The program collaborates with local partners to implement evidence-based strategies and policies to reduce tobacco use prevalence and exposure among residents of Baltimore City.

    The Baltimore City Health Department – Tobacco Education and Cessation program is crucial because it promotes healthy behaviors and educates families about the dangers of tobacco use. The program can raise awareness among children and caregivers about the importance of avoiding tobacco products, thereby supporting overall wellness and creating a healthier environment for learning and development.

  • Baltimore City Public Schools-Office of Early Learning

    The Baltimore City Public Schools – Office of Early Learning (OEL) is a division within the Baltimore City Public Schools system dedicated to providing early childhood education and development services. It focuses on preparing young children, typically from birth to age five, for academic success through various programs, initiatives, and partnerships with families and communities. OEL aims to ensure that all children in Baltimore City have access to high-quality early learning experiences that support their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

    The Baltimore City Public Schools-Office of Early Learning will help emphasize the significance of early childhood education in preparing young children for academic success. Their presence ensures that families understand the resources and programs available to support children’s development and school readiness. By engaging with caregivers and providing information about early learning opportunities, the office enhances community awareness and participation in early education initiatives, ultimately laying a strong foundation for children’s future academic achievements.

  • Bedtime In a Box

    Bedtime in a Box is a creative but simple solution that supports the health and educational development of children prior to entering school by providing families with the materials, tools, and training they need to enact a comprehensive bedtime routine, seven days a week.

    Bedtime in a Box will highlight the critical role of consistent bedtime routines in promoting children’s health and educational development. By providing families with the materials, tools, and training necessary for a structured bedtime routine, Bedtime in a Box empowers caregivers to create a supportive environment conducive to learning and overall well-being. This initiative underscores the importance of holistic child development, ensuring that children are physically and mentally prepared for their educational journey from an early age.

  • Enoch Pratt Free Libraries

    The Enoch Pratt Free Library is a public library system serving Baltimore, Maryland. It was established in 1886 through a bequest from philanthropist Enoch Pratt, who donated funds to create a free public library for the city. The library system consists of several branches throughout Baltimore, offering a wide range of books, digital resources, programs, and services to the community. The Enoch Pratt Free Library is known for its commitment to literacy, education, and community engagement, providing a valuable resource for residents of all ages.

    The Enoch Pratt Free Library will promote literacy and lifelong learning among children and families. By showcasing their resources, including books, digital materials, and educational programs, the library encourages a love for reading and supports academic success. Their presence fosters community engagement and provides access to valuable learning opportunities that enrich children’s educational experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

  • Giant Food

    Giant Food is a supermarket chain primarily operating in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It offers a wide range of groceries, fresh produce, meats, and household items through its stores and online platform. Giant Food is known for its commitment to quality and customer service, serving communities for decades with a focus on convenience and value.

    Giant Food plays a crucial role in educating kids and caregivers about healthy eating habits, particularly as they prepare for the school year ahead. Their commitment to providing nutritious choices empowers families to start the year strong with balanced meals and snacks.

  • Jubilee Arts

    Jubilee Arts is a community arts program based in Baltimore, Maryland, that aims to empower individuals through artistic expression and creative activities. It provides arts education, workshops, and performances to residents of all ages, fostering cultural enrichment and community engagement. Jubilee Arts is committed to promoting social justice and equity through the transformative power of the arts within Baltimore’s diverse neighborhoods.

    Jubilee Arts helps to enrich the educational experience of children through creative expression and community engagement. Their programs and workshops in the arts empower young learners, fostering creativity, confidence, and cultural appreciation. By participating in the event, Jubilee Arts promotes holistic development and provides a platform for children to explore their talents, enhancing their overall educational journey and strengthening ties within the community.

  • Maryland Family Network

    Maryland Family Network (MFN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that young children and their families have access to high-quality early care and education services throughout the state of Maryland. MFN works to improve the availability, affordability, and quality of child care and early learning programs. It provides advocacy, resources, training, and technical assistance to child care providers, educators, and families to promote positive outcomes for children’s development and school readiness. MFN also operates a network of Family Support Centers that offer services such as parenting education, health screenings, and referrals to community resources.

    Maryland Family Network aims to support families with young children by providing resources and guidance on early childhood education and care. Their expertise and advocacy help ensure that children receive quality care and education, setting a strong foundation for future academic success. Maryland Family Network’s presence promotes parental involvement and community support, emphasizing the importance of early learning and family well-being in preparing children for school and beyond.

  • Maryland Food Bank

    The Maryland Food Bank is a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger in Maryland. It distributes food to individuals and families through a network of community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and schools. The Maryland Food Bank also works on advocacy and education initiatives to address the root causes of hunger and food insecurity in the state.

    Maryland Food Bank will be here to address food insecurity among families with school-aged children. By providing access to nutritious food and resources, the Maryland Food Bank supports children’s health and readiness to learn. Their presence underscores the link between adequate nutrition and academic success, ensuring that all students have the nourishment they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Additionally, the Maryland Food Bank promotes community resilience and fosters partnerships to combat hunger effectively.

  • Maryland Public Television-Early Childhood Education Services

    Maryland Public Television (MPT) – Early Childhood Education Services refers to the educational programming and resources provided by Maryland Public Television specifically tailored for young children. MPT offers a variety of television shows, digital content, and outreach activities designed to support early childhood development, including literacy skills, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. These services aim to engage young learners, support families and caregivers, and promote educational equity across Maryland communities.

    MPT’s content promotes early literacy, social-emotional development, and school readiness through engaging and enriching media. By partnering with Maryland Public Television, the event enhances access to high-quality educational materials that complement classroom learning and support parents in fostering their children’s educational growth from an early age.