The west meets the east in this immersive exhibit that transports families to a country where a quickly changing modern lifestyle intersects with ancient values. Visitors will discover the many similarities and differences in modern- day Chinese culture. Children’s China integrates the time-honored teachings of Confucius, China’s great teacher, with a focus on the importance of education and family values.

This interactive exhibit, designed for children 3 to 12 years, explores what life is like for children in China today through six different immersive environments. In the school, children will celebrate the annual holiday, National Teachers’ Day, while learning to write “thank you teacher” in Chinese characters on a touchscreen notepad. Visitors will take on the role of a researcher at the panda reserve and discover how the people of China are caring for this endangered species. The entire family will find exercise fun at the park by using playful equipment that encourages fitness for all ages. Food is an important cultural experience in China, and children will shop in a traditional neighborhood market filled with a variety of fish, fruits and vegetables and then prepare a healthy meal while working in the restaurant. In the home, visitors will learn how families celebrate the Chinese New Year.

Ancient practices will be explored in modern ways with computer interactives that invite visitors to experience the art of paper cutting, discover their lunar calendar animal, and play traditional musical instruments.

A key focus of the exhibit is the story of Confucius, the inspirational teacher and moral leader still considered to be a hero to children in China today. Confucius’ beliefs about the importance of family, education and traditions have been at the center of Chinese culture for over 2,500 years and served as a foundation for the development of Children’s China.

Children’s China: Celebrating Culture, Character and Confucius is part of the Freeman Foundation Asian Culture Exhibit Series, funded by The Freeman Foundation and administered by Association of Children’s Museums. Created by The Magic House in partnership with the Confucius Institute at Webster University and Character Plus, Children’s China is a nationally traveling exhibit designed to increase understanding of the Chinese culture. Children’s China is free with Museum admission.

Children’s China will be open at Kaleideum Downtown through May.