Explore engaging activities, replica artifacts, and interactive exhibits for children under 12.
Discover how George Washington became a leader and explore your own character, strengths, and values in the Sanda and Jeremiah Lambert Hands-on-History Center.
Whether you have 10 minutes or an afternoon, you can wander the gardens through murals, read in Washington’s study, try a recreation of the fan chair, and play games to experience Mount Vernon in a new way.
Hours & Location
The Hands-on-History Center is located in the Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Included with admission.
Itinerary: Things to Do with Kids
Bring the family to George Washington's estate, where there's something for all ages.
Online Activities for Kids
Click here to access crafts, worksheets, games, quizzes, videos, and other activities that can be completed independently or as a group.
Play at Three Interactive Sensory Stations
Young learners ages five and under can experience life at Mount Vernon through hands-on sensory boards.
- Identify the livestock at Mount Vernon and design a farm using magnet tiles.
- Decorate the Mansion's New Room with furniture blocks.
- Combine recipe cards to create an 18th-century meal.
Read in a Recreation of Washington's Study
Take a quiet moment to read books such as A Spy Called James by a reproduction of the Mansion's fireplace.
Sit in a replica of Washington's fan chair and pump the pedals for an authentic 18th-century cooling experience.
Put Your Problem-Solving Skills to the Test
Play alongside educators or challenge your friends and family to seven different tabletop games.
Use measuring tools to become a land surveyor or build your own botanical garden with plant and seed tiles.
Other activity themes include women in the Revolutionary War, Washington in pop culture, Revolutionary War spies, and more.
Find Out What's Growing in Mount Vernon's Gardens
Learn about different plants and vegetables historically grown at Mount Vernon in a seek-and-find challenge.
See how the upper garden transforms throughout the seasons in picturesque murals.
Plus, snap a photo with one of Washington's American Foxhounds.
Read About the Lives of People at Mount Vernon
Explore the stories of the many individuals who were part of George Washington's world by reading their biographies:
- Family members, including Martha Washington and Eleanor "Nelly" Parke Custis
- Enslaved people, including Ona Judge and William Lee
- Famous visitors, including Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton
Uncover The General's Leadership Traits
Follow Washington's journey as he developed seven leadership traits over the course of his life. Learn how iconic objects, such as the Bastille key, help tell that story.
Reflect on the strengths you share with Washington that make you a great leader.
Upcoming Educational Events for Kids
