The John Jay Homestead in Katonah has an exciting line-up for kids who will be enjoying spring break next week.  The four workshops are all 2-hour historically themed programs that begin at 10 a.m. The cost is $15 per child per session ($12 per child for members of the Friends of John Jay Homestead). Please note that all of the workshops are drop off programs for children aged 5-10 only, and reservations are required by calling 914-232-5651.

Here’s the schedule:

MONDAY, APRIL 18, 10AM: Here, There, and Everywhere!   How did people get around 200 years ago?  What types of transportation did they use?  How did travel expose people to new and fascinating discoveries?  Children will answer these questions while exploring the bedrooms of John Jay and his daughter, Nancy.  They will then make a shell craft to take home. 

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 10AM: SPRING EGG HUNT  Sponsored by the Bedford Recreation Department, this is a children’s event. Hunt begins promptly at 11:00. No admission charge. For information on a storm date and location, call the Bedford Recreation Department at 914.666.7004. No reservations are required for this event.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 1PM: THE ARTIST IN YOU!  Do you like art? Do you know the difference between a painting and a print? Or how long it took to have your portrait painted 200 years ago? Children explore the extensive art collection at the Homestead, and then try their hand at printmaking.      

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 10AM: BIRDS OF A FEATHER Calling all junior birdwatchers! Come and explore the Homestead’s beautiful grounds and learn about the birds that live here. See how many different types of birds you can find. Children will then make something to help the birds in their backyard.

THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 1PM: CLEAN AS A WHISTLE How did people bathe; stay clean and do their laundry 200 years ago? If there was no indoor plumbing, where was their bathroom? Children will tour William Jay’s bedroom and the cellar kitchen to learn about personal hygiene 200 years ago and make soap.