Discovery Center to Host Family Day Feb. 8

Children and their parents will learn about various cultures during Creatures and Cultures Family Day from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Ollie Mae Moen Discovery Center, 815 Columbus.
Geared toward children in pre-kindergarten through seventh grade, the multicultural day will feature entertainment which highlights different nationalities. The Japanese Society of Fort Worth will demonstrate Japanese dance, origami and calligraphy; Beulah Barksdale will tell African folk tales; and the Hispanic Folklore Dancers also will perform. Visitors can see Lee Trueheart Bryan, in Native American ceremonial dress, knap flint using the same tools as the early Native Americans. He will also demonstrate ceremonial dances.
"The center is usually not open on the weekend," said Jill Barrow, director of the Discovery Center. "But we are open two Saturdays a year. Children come here with their school groups, and they want to bring their parents back. They can come and enjoy the center as a family."
In addition to the multicultural theme, the family day will feature information on recycling education. A puppet show, "Jack and the Giant Trash Heap" starring Jack and Trashy, will emphasize the importance of recycling. Anna Dunbar, the City of Waco Recycling Coordinator, will be in the recycling area talking about composting and solid waste management, and visitors will make hats from recycled newspapers. Kevin Dyer, WISD Energy Manager, will discuss conservation of electricity and other natural resources.
Other activities include conducting science experiments, blowing soap bubbles, investigating optical illusions, playing with musical instruments from around the world and interacting with snakes, salamanders, turtles and guinea pigs.
The Ollie Mae Moen Discovery Center, affiliated with Baylor University, allows children to explore different educational units in a hands-on environment. Admission is free, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information, call Barrow at 757-0922.