ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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Greetings,

We have had an increasing problem with breakage, sometimes verging into
vandalism, in the museum over the years. After their class with one of our
educators, the school groups have free time in the museum. We think that is
when the most damage occurs: when big groups of kids with less than ideal
supervision are at large. We feel that not only do the exhibits suffer but
the kids are getting less content when they are "running wild". But it is
hard to expect strict attention in structured situations from kids during an
hour and a half or two hour visit. We think they need some unstructured
activity, but we can't condone "recess" on the museum floor. Where is the
happy medium for you folks?

What do you specifically do when dealing with groups of kids. Do you have
chaperone-to-kid ratios? How do you enforce that? Do you have specific
signage? Do you even allow free-range kidism? Do you have self guided
worksheets for the kids to check off regarding exhibit content? Any other
ideas? Are others having the same problems?

How do we put some "tough love" into our limited-staff museum? We need your
expertise and advice. Then we will do as my old mountain neighbor used to
say:  "I get all the advice I can, and then I do exactly as I please!"
(Grin). Thanks everyone!

Phil Edgerton
The Health Adventure
Asheville, NC

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