As a working mom of a very active 7-year-old, I excitedly embrace the slower pace that the summer break brings. In late spring each year, we map out our travel plans, join reading clubs and explore local things to do. Without some intentional planning, it can be a bit challenging to fill up days with memorable experiences that facilitate learning and bonding. A staple of our summer plans is visiting the American Airlines CR Smith Museum in Fort Worth, which hosts a STEM-focused summer exhibition designed to entertain and educate elementary-aged children.
Kicking off summer with a new Museum exhibition
We kicked off summer by visiting its latest exhibition—Measurement Rules. We couldn’t believe the number of hands-on activities that taught Mason about weight, length, height, width and volume. And the exhibition made learning these essential concepts exciting. For example, he measured how much he weighed in chickens and how tall he was in apples. If you’re wondering, yes, those numbers continue to be discussed with endless giggles.
Mason had an absolute blast running from end to end, reading the questions, making predictions and testing his theories. What immediately stood out was how much fun he had while gaining knowledge he’ll use for the rest of his life. Each stop brought about verbal cues of enjoyment. Every mom loves to hear, “Wowwww,” “Whoa,” “Look at this” and tons of laughs.
Mason and I are frequent visitors to the CR Smith Museum. He loves climbing and running in the airplane playground and, as a longtime American Airlines employee myself, I have a sense of pride every time we walk through the doors.
Learn about aviation history and airline operations through interactive experiences
We have a nearly 100-year history displayed so beautifully throughout the museum—from authentic uniforms and engines to historical memorabilia and a beautiful DC-3 aircraft in the hangar. I also enjoy the interactive displays that use gamification to help visitors experience airline operations, including access to flight simulators. And to top it off, an inspiring movie is shown in their theater with retro first-class seats. It’s fun for all ages.
Add the CR Smith Museum to your list of things to do this summer
You won’t be disappointed in this Dallas-Fort Worth landmark. Visitors can experience the Measurement Rules summer exhibition at the CR Smith Museum now through Sept. 9 during special hours Thursdays from 10am to 2pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Check it out for yourself one of these summer weekends when (you and) the kids are dying to get out of the house.
Learn more about Measurement Rules and set up your visit.
Photos courtesy of Arturo Barbera Productions for the American Airlines CR Smith Museum. Sponsored content by American Airlines CR Smith Museum.
