The Prince Albert Historical Museum held its last day of a week-long half-day camp at its facilities on Aug. 14, entitled ‘Can You Hear Me Now.’
The camp taught participants about the evolution of communication. Marley Novotny, one of two summer programming assistants, said they set up escape rooms within the museum as a way to keep the kids engaged and learning.
“The children utilized forms of communication, ciphers, and a whole bunch of different things to escape the rooms,” he explained. “Then afterwards, we do additional activities that are teaching them different forms of communication. So teaching them about different ways, but also teaching them to socialize and communicate, to solve problems as a group rather than individually for sure.”
This is one of two summer week-long half-day camps the museum offers with last month’s camp entitled ‘History Hunters’. The July camp explored the history of Central Avenue and how it progressed through time.
“We’ve had a few parents show up and say that the things we’re doing are really, really cool. I know that these kids are excited to come to camp everyday,” said Novotny.
The program has a $75 fee and is targeted for children aged 8 to 12.
“Just seeing kids excited to learn, whether that be through games or through making the museum into an escape room, it’s fun to see how we can sneak in little things that genuinely teach them something, but also while they’re socializing with each other and having a place where they can feel comfortable as well,” he said.
Novotny explained that the program is important to provide space for youth interested in history.
“There are kids out there who are obsessed with history, and interested in history,” he said. “This gives them an opportunity to come here and meet other kids that are also interested in the same things, and it cements the museum as, again, a comfortable spot for them.”
He also added that through the escape rooms, participants are able to see and explore the museum more, and see which exhibits interest them.
“It warms my heart, and it gets me excited to come here everyday,” said Novotny.
The Prince Albert Historical Museum offers programs leading into the fall and winter seasons including the Explorers Program.
