Programs at The Nest
The Nest by The North Carolina Children’s Museum is more than just a place to play—it’s a growing hub for creative programs that support families, spark curiosity, and connect our community. From hands-on gardening and drop-off care to parent meetups and camps, explore the many ways your family can grow with us.
Parents’ Night Out
Ages 4–8 | Select Fridays from 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Kids enjoy a night of play, crafts, and pizza while parents enjoy a well-earned night off. Staff-led and secure—spaces fill quickly!
Laughing Monitos: Babbles and Play
Ages 15-18 months | Mondays, 8:30- 9:30 AM
Play is how children learn to talk. Laughing Monitos' 8-week playgroup, led by a licensed bilingual speech-language pathologist, building language, connection, and confidence through joyful, immersive play-with two small groups by age. Babbles and Play for ages 15-18 months runs Mondays, 8:30am-9:30am, from August 17th-October 5th.
Laughing Monitos: First Words
Ages 18-24 months | Mondays, 9:30-10:30 AM
Play is how children learn to talk. Laughing Monitos' 8-week playgroup, led by a licensed bilingual speech-language pathologist, building language, connection, and confidence through joyful, immersive play-with two small groups by age. First Words for ages 18-24 months runs Mondays, 9:30am-10:30am, from August 17th-October 5th.
Breastfeeding Café
Mondays from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join La Leche League in The Nest for a meet-up where mothers can ask one another questions, offer and receive support, and make connections. Bring your babies and toddlers along with you! This program is FREE and does not require registration.
Garden Parties
Third Saturday of every month beginning in April from 10 - 11 AM
Join us as we welcome spring and wake up the garden after its long winter nap! Children will dig into hands-on fun by planting seeds, exploring soil, making crafts, and discovering the first signs of spring. Little gardeners will learn how plants grow, help prepare the garden for the new season, and take home their own planted seed to watch sprout. This program is FREE and does not require registration.
Junior Gardeners
Every Thursday from 10 - 11 AM beginning April 2nd
Explore the garden, get your hands dirty in the dig plot, participate in hands-on activities, and more! Help The Nest care for our garden at this informal, drop-in event for caregivers and their children. This program is FREE and does not require registration.