The Becker Children’s Wing opened in 1988 with a generous gift donated by the Becker family as a memorial to Sherburn M. Becker III, a Museum Trustee. This 6,500 square foot wing is designed as a comfortable learning environment for elementary school children ages 7 – 12 years. Expanded exhibitions have been developed around curriculum subjects with themes including western migration, cultures, energy, land use, Native Americans, Egypt and Dinosaurs.

In the Becker Children’s Wing, learning is an active process and exhibitions are designed to offer children an interactive engagement with a subject. Visitors can begin their tour with an orientation in our ampitheater, explore the exhibition, experiment with many hands-on activities and visit the children’s gift shop. Because of the research and development costs involved, exhibitions in the Becker Children's Wing are generally of a two-year duration. School groups are escorted by professional guides, most of whom are retired teachers. More than 37,000 children participate each year.

Group tours must be arranged in advance by calling Marion Kanaga, Education Coordinator, at 732-747-2266. Group rates are available.

BLAST OFF! A Space Journey
is now on exhibit in the Becker Children’s Wing through August 2009.
Visitors will begin their tour with a walk through the Hall of Ancient Astronomy. See Galileo’s laboratory and hear him speak about his many revolutionary discoveries. Explore our fascinating Solar System through interactive presentations on the Sun, the Planets and the Milky Way. Experience the wonders of the night sky in a StarLab Planetarium show. Learn about NASA and how astronauts prepare for space travel, experience a rocket launch, and travel to the Moon’s surface! BLAST OFF! is the perfect space journey for star gazing elementary school students and anyone interested in Outer Space.

Travel Trunks
Most Travel Trunk titles are from exhibits that have occurred in the Becker Children's Wing and are tied to school curriculum. A mini-museum in a trunk for use in your classroom or all purpose room for two week rentals. More about the Travel Trunk Program