Night Journeys

Ah, bedtime: that chance to wind down from the hectic pace of the day and settle in to the evening ritual of nighttime and sleep. Now it’s the subject of a new exhibit at Long Island Children's Museum, which runs through Sept. 12.
“Night Journeys: An Adventure in the World of Sleep and Dreams” takes families on a fascinating journey through the world of bedtime rituals and routines and into the nighttime experience of sleep and dreams. Combining hands-on activities, collection objects, working models, displays, and animated video, the bi-lingual exhibition helps young visitors and their families improve their understanding of the sleep experience. Night Journeys provides an environment in which young people’s most comforting bedtime habits, persistent nighttime fears and compelling curiosities about sleep and dreams can be explored in a humorous, supportive way, according to LICM staff.
“Summer is the perfect time to bring Night Journeys to LICM,” said Executive Director Suzanne LeBlanc. “Sleep routines that families have established during the year can change drastically at this time of year as bedtimes become more relaxed and upcoming camp and vacation plans provide plenty of dream or nightmare material. The exhibit theme will resonate deeply with parents and children alike.”
Visitors enter the exhibit through a whimsical bedroom setting where they are introduced to sleeping places from many parts of the world. Children can lie down on an ancient Egyptian bed or try out a headrest from Japan or Somalia, among other activities.
A fantastic giant bed serves as the centerpiece in this area, offering kids the opportunity to examine protective sleep charms used around the world and take on one of the most common bedtime fears. As they shine a giant flashlight under the bed, they will turn a “frightening monster” into an ordinary pile of socks and toys. Hands-on activities and imaginary play provide children and parents with the opportunity to examine the role bedtime rituals and routines play in their lives and compare them with families around the world.