Presented by the Children’s Museum of Phoenix
How many times have you told your kids to stop sliding across the kitchen floor in their socks? Or reminded them that the hallway isn’t an ice-skating rink?
Well, here’s one place where they can slide to their hearts’ content!
Sock Skating is back at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix this November, and it’s exactly what it sounds like. Kids (and adults!) can slip, slide and glide across a slick surface that feels a whole lot like ice. No skates, no freezing temperatures and no parents yelling, “Stop running in the house!”
And while it might look like kids are just goofing around, there’s actually a lot happening while they’re trying to stay on their feet.
Finding Their Footing
Have you ever watched a child try to walk across a slippery floor? Arms go flying, knees bend and suddenly they’re moving in ways you didn’t know were possible. That’s their body figuring things out.
Sliding requires balance, coordination and a little trial and error. Kids have to adjust their movements, shift their weight and figure out what works. It’s a fun way to work on gross motor skills without making it feel like exercise. And chances are, they’ll want to do it again and again.
A Chance to Try Something New
Ice skating isn’t exactly an everyday activity for Arizona kids, but Sock Skating gives them a chance to experience some of that same winter fun without the ice or skates. Kids can practice sliding, turning and even a few spins, all at their own pace. Some might start with little shuffles while others jump right into gliding across the floor.
There’s no right or wrong way to do it. It’s simply a chance to try something different, get moving and have a little fun along the way. One of the best things about play is that kids get to try something new without worrying about getting it perfect. They can experiment, laugh at themselves, figure out what went wrong and try again.
Let Them Be Kids!
We spend a lot of time telling kids to slow down, be careful, stop running and watch where they’re going. And usually, for good reason. But kids also need opportunities to move freely, test their abilities and do something a little outside the ordinary.
Sock Skating gives them that chance. It’s silly, it’s active and it’s something most parents probably wouldn’t encourage in their own living rooms. And–no winter jackets required.
Slip, Slide and Glide at the Museum!
From November 21 through December 28, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix transforms its Atrium into a whimsical winter wonderland, complete with a slick, ice-like skating surface.
Visitors of all ages are welcome to join in. Just bring a favorite pair of comfy socks and get ready to practice those spins!
It’s a little taste of winter fun without leaving the desert. And for once, sliding across the floor isn’t just allowed. It’s encouraged!
PLAN YOUR VISIT
WHEN: Sock Skating runs November 21–December 28. The Museum is open seven days a week, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., through January 10, with some exceptions. Check the online calendar for current hours.
WHERE: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. 7th St., Phoenix
ADMISSION: $19 per person; $18 for seniors 62+. Children under age 1 and Museum members are free. Sock Skating is included with admission.
MEMBERSHIPS: Annual memberships start at $149 for one adult and one child, with options for families of up to eight people. Membership includes unlimited Museum admission for one year.
LEARN MORE: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
