By Isle of Wight Observer
Families can step back in time this summer, as Dinosaur Isle Museum, in Sandown, launches a packed programme of hands-on activities, fossil discoveries, and expert talks throughout the school holidays.
Running until August 28, the programme offers visitors the chance to handle real Isle of Wight fossils, meet the scientists who study them, and discover why the Island is one of Europe’s most important locations for prehistoric remains.
Every day, the museum’s popular Fossil Lab Hatch will be open from 10am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, giving visitors the opportunity to examine genuine local fossils, and chat with the museum’s palaeontologists.
Weekday gallery activities will also allow young visitors to become scientists for the day. On Mondays and Fridays, families can search for fossil shark teeth, while Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays feature finger-print activities, exploring the evolutionary history of humans.
Museum scientists will deliver free talks every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1pm in the education room, with additional pop-up talks taking place in the galleries throughout the day.
Located on Culver Parade, the fully air-conditioned museum is home to more than 35,000 fossils and geological specimens. All summer activities are included with normal admission.
Mal Butler