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Mommy Nearest

There’s five floors of reasons to love the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, but our favorite is the ever-changing exhibit on the lower level. Earlier this year, the space was transformed into a Super Bowl wonderland, followed by a STEAM Lab. But the latest exhibit to take over, “Jazzed! The Changing Beat of 125th Street” (open through December 31), may just be the coolest. There, visitors can be transported back to 1930’s Harlem and hang out with jazz legends Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington and Bill ‘Bojangles’ Robinson. We got a first look; read on to find out why this CMOM exhibit is a must-visit!

There’s plenty of reasons to dance!
Bojangles is most famous for his stair dance, and here, kids can test out their tapping skills as well. After designing and creating their own tap shoes, children can head over to a mini set of stairs (they are just the right size for tiny toe tappers) and make magic with their feet. This is a definite photo opp moment, so be sure to have your camera ready.

Little ones can sing their heart out
Does your child love to belt out “Let it Go” from Frozen every night? If so, let her show off her musical talent by joining Ella Fitzgerald in her jazz club. The famous musician’s iconic microphone is there too! Children will have the chance to be in the spotlight and sing to the the audience (or at least another toddler or two). It’s also a great time to teach kids about other types of musical styles.

You can make music-themed crafts
If your child would rather express himself through crafts, you’re in luck. The exhibit features an impressive array of hands-on projects! Design your own golden record (don’t forget to autograph it before you head home!) and make a guitar or banjo out of cardboard boxes and rubber bands. The craft tables are even shaped like musical instruments!

There will be performances all summer long
Throughout the summer, the museum will host live performances every weekend where kids can actually interact with jazz artists, composers, musicians and vocalists. Some of the famous artists you can meet include Sam Newsome, the Andrew Nemr Quartet, Brianna Thomas and Amir El Saffar. See cmom.org for a list of all performances.. You’ll also want to visit on Wednesdays for special tap dancing lessons.

Expect surprises
There are lots of other fun things to see and do, but we don’t want to give it all away! Check it out for yourself and let us know what your family thought. We guarantee your kids will want to spend a large chunk of your visit at the new exhibit, but make sure to leave enough some time to explore the rest of the museum. There’s so many amazing things to see!

By STEPHANIE BERNHART