Easton Children's Museum Reopens After Pandemic Shutdown
EASTON, MA—The Easton Children's Museum reopened to the public on Wednesday for the first time since it closed in March due to coronavirus pandemic shutdowns.
The museum participated with children virtually throughout the summer, creating videos for families to watch each week. These "Mind, Body, and Soul" videos explored topics such as backyard camping, spin art, and dance parties. These at-home projects are still available for public viewing on the museum's website for those who are not yet comfortable with attending in-person events, but Executive Director Caitlin McGillicuddy said it is a relief to be welcoming families back in person.
"We are really excited to be open," said McGillicuddy. "It has been so quiet and that is something we are not normally used to. When the first group walked in we were jumping up and down and yelling. Having kids in the building again was amazing and the parents were so grateful."
Although the museum has opened its doors, it will look different than it did prior to March. In accordance with state guidelines, it will operate at a reduced capacity of 40 people at a time to allow for social distancing. Two playtime sessions will take place each day, one from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. and the other from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m., on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with a potential to add more days based on public interest.
"We are being cautious because we know it is a bit of a risk, but all of us know that kids and families are struggling right now and if we can find a safe place for them to play, we want to provide that," said McGillicuddy. "I was surprised to see how many little kids understood social distancing and wearing masks. It seemed to have worked the first day open and everyone has been really respectful and kind to each other, which is what we really need right now."
The museum has assured that there will be cleaning between each session and staff will wear masks, have daily temperature checks, and wash their hands frequently. Check-in will be outside the museum and guests are required to purchase tickets in advance with no walk-ins permitted.
All visitors over the age of 2 are required to wear a mask covering their mouth and nose and strollers, diaper bags, sippy cups, pacifiers, and similar personal items will not be allowed inside the museum. Hand sanitizer stations, dirty toy bins, and air purifiers have been installed throughout the building. The museum staff have also limited the number of items children touch to allow for switching out and cleaning. Certain exhibits have been cleared out and seating has been removed to ensure space for social distancing.
This article originally appeared on the Easton Patch
