Share kid-watching responsibilities. Bringing your kids and some of their friends? Ask other adults to help. Kids like to wander while they wonder in a science center. Each child will find a different area of interest as they explore the museum's many interactive attractions.

Encourage questions. Answers are good; questions are better and stimulate thinking. It's part of learning. "What do you see?" "What does this remind you of?" "What do you think will happen if...?" The point is not right or wrong answers. It's the process of investigation. And help children relate what they're doing to personal experiences.

Can't answer? Admit "I don't know." It's OK not to know all the answers. No one does. "Let's find out," is a good response. Seek out a staff member - they're often called demonstrators or explainers. Helping you is a big part of their job!

Respect your children's ideas. Enjoy their perceptions of what they see, hear, and feel. Their experience is more limited than yours, and some of their ideas may seem naïve or puzzling. Remember: Scientific breakthroughs start when somebody sees the world in a different way.

Take in a movie. Large-screen films are great - in kidspeak, "awesome!" Go see one if they're available and you'll get to sit down, too. Use discretion; very young children may reach sensory overload and be scared. Large-screen films are best for ages 5 and up. During holidays, it may be wise to buy tickets for special shows in advance.

Enjoy yourself. Science centers are for kids - and adults. The wonder of discovery is for all ages. Who knows? After 20 years away from the classroom, you might learn something, too.

Check out the museum's store for kits, books, and materials that extend the educational experience. Encourage your children to share what fascinates them with others.

Explore the science center in kid-sized chunks. You - and they - can't do it all in one day. Go often. Kids will discover new facets of science each time they go. Consider a family membership to make it easy - and less expensive to visit.