The Southern Museum invites visitors to a Sensory Friendly Afternoon! From 2 PM to 5 PM, the museum will be transformed into a sensory-friendly environment, welcoming those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory processing issues, or special needs to explore at their own pace. All ages are encouraged to attend. This event is included with general admission and free for members!
The Sensory Friendly Afternoon will feature two themed story times at 3 PM and 4 PM, along with an exhibit connection. Visitors are welcome to explore the museum, even if they choose not to participate in the scheduled programming.
February 25 – Proud to be a Pullman Porter
- Topic: African American History Month – Sleeper Cars
- Book: Night Train, Night Train by Robert Burleigh
- Exhibit Connection: Pullman Car and Case
March 25 – The Wonders of Women in Railroading
- Topic: Women’s History Month – Women in Railroading
- Book: Kate Shelley and the Midnight Express by Margarett K. Wetterer
- Exhibit Connection: Construction Feats Panel
April 29 – Who’s on the Caboose?
- Topic: Cabooses
- Book: A Moose on the Caboose by Candace Spizzirri
- Exhibit Connection: Exterior Caboose Tour
May 27 – Hooray for Trains!
- Topic: National Train Day (10th)
- Book: I Like Trains by Daisy Hirst
- Exhibit Connection: 3×4 interactive layout
June 24 – Chugga, Chugga, Meow, Meow
- Topic: Animals and the Railroad
- Book: Chessie Takes a Train Trip by Thomas W. Dixon Jr.
- Exhibit Connection: Owney Case (RR animals)
July 29 – The Most Famous Locomotive of Them All
- Topic: Famous Steam Locomotives
- Books: Flying Scotsman and the Best Birthday Ever by Michael Morpurgo
- Exhibit Connection: General Gallery Tour
August 26 – Touch-a-Train
- Topic: Model Train Scales
- Book: Snakes on a Train by Kathryn Dennis
- Exhibit Connection: Touch model train cars of different scales
September 30 – Parts and Pieces
- Topic: Building Trains
- Book: Let’s Build a Little Train by Julia Richardson
- Exhibit Connection: Glover Exhibit
October 28 – The Friendly Freight Train
- Topic: Freight Cars
- Book: Freight Train by Donald Crews
- Exhibit Connection: Merci Boxcar
November 25 – No Class
December 30 – Happy Holidays!
- Topic: Holiday Trains
- Book: Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
- Exhibit Connection: Holiday Layout
