Family Programs

In the Community

Meet the Met: For Families and Young People

"Meet the Met" creates educational experiences for children in after-school programs, community centers, religious centers, and libraries in New York City. Programs are available in several languages, including American Sign Language.

Using slides or other materials, Museum educators introduce new audiences to the Metropolitan Museum's encyclopedic collection and to the world of the visual arts. During a series of visits, lecturers lead group discussions on a variety of topics, and artists conduct hands-on art workshops. Groups are given free follow-up tours in the Museum and are welcome to participate in the Museum's ongoing family programs.

Topics

The following thematic, cross-cultural talks may be tailored to fit any age or skill level:

Animals in Art

Look at the way animals have been depicted in art through the centuries, from divine creatures to symbols of powers and wealth.

Explore the World of Photography

View photographs and discuss the impact of photography on twentieth-century life. Followed by a workshop on how to create your own photograph.

Landscapes and Seasons

Discuss realistic and symbolic images of nature.

Myths and Legends

From magical beings to fantastic creatures, discover characters in the ancient myths.

Neighborhoods

Explore the architecture and environments created by different cultures from 3000 B.C. to the present.

Portraits

Learn how individuals—from ordinary people to kings and queens—have been portrayed through the centuries.

Power Figures

Investigate images of power, from those of superheroes to royalty.

Visual Language/The Art of Writing

Examine the development of writing and calligraphy from the ancient world to modern times, followed by related workshops. This topic may be split into two parts—Session One: The Ancient World; and Session Two: The Modern World.

Additional Topics

Art of the Ancient Americas; Art of the Harlem Renaissance; Creation Myths; Families; Magical Places; Modern Art; Music and Games; Reality and Fantasy; Unicorns and Dragons; Water; Women in Art. Museum educators can also work with you to design lectures on special topics suited to the interests of your group. For more information, please call 212-396-5051.

Scheduling

Before requesting a Meet the Met program at your location, please select a topic from the list above. Contact the Museum at least four weeks before your requested program date. Please have alternate dates available before you call. Once you have selected a topic, a first-choice date, and alternate dates, call 212-396-5051, Monday through Friday, between 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., to make a reservation. You will receive a confirmation letter prior to the program date.

Fees

Meet the Met is offered for free within the five boroughs of New York City, but a $50 fee will be charged for any cancellation or rescheduled appointment. The program includes three offsite visits by Museum educators and three follow-up visits to the Museum. Family passes are provided to participants for free one-time admission to the Museum and The Cloisters. Special family festivals may also be scheduled for up to 300 people.

Meet the Met is made possible by the Uris Brothers Foundation Endowment, Judith Lee Stronach and Raymond Lifchez, The Samuel and Rae Eckman Charitable Foundation, Inc., the Thanksgiving Foundation, and The Murray G. and Beatrice H. Sherman Charitable Trust.

Plan Your Visit

Museum Hours
Monday: Closed (Except Met Holiday Mondays)
Tuesday–Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

See Plan Your Visit for more information, including directions.

Stay Informed

The Education e-newsletter lets you know about upcoming programs, classes, and other events offered at the Museum.