For Families

What was Mom's first computer? Were computers around when Grandpa was a kid? How did people do their math homework before they had calculators to help? Who invented video games? Bring your family and find out answers to these questions and more as you enjoy a walk through the history of computers from the abacus to the Internet … and beyond!

Discovery Deck

Use our free Discovery Deck to help you explore our exhibition, Revolution: The First 2000 Years of Computing. It's a great way to get to know some of the innovations, people, and stories that have shaped computer history. Older children may be able to use it on their own, sharing what they learn with their families. Adults and teens can read it to younger children, using it as a starting point for conversations in the exhibition.

Tips for a Successful Family Visit

Before Your Visit

There is a lot to see and do at the Computer History Museum, so be sure to plan your visit with your family's interests and needs in mind. Talk together about what you would like to see. Explore our website to learn more about the Museum's collections and to find out about programs and events you might want to participate in. Print out our free Discovery Deck, and use it to help plan your route through Revolution.

Remember that the experience of visiting a new space can be exciting, and also tiring. Choose a time of day that works well for your children, and plan to take rests or visit the Museum café when they need a break. Don’t try to take on too much in one day.

At the Museum

Pick up a Visitor Guide to find basic information about the Museum and a floor plan for Revolution. If you have not brought a Discovery Deck, pick one up before you go into the exhibition.

Family visits often work well when the children lead, so follow their interests and be open to changing your plans if they discover something new or unexpected. Share your stories and questions together. Let older children tell you what they know, and let them read labels to help everyone in the family discover more. Bring younger children into the conversation by asking for their questions and explaining information in language that they can understand.

Museum staff and volunteers are here to help so be sure to ask questions when you see them in the exhibition.

Finally, you and your children can help us protect our historical artifacts by following our Visitor Guidelines. Please keep your children under supervision at all times.

After Your Visit

Share what you learned together. Were there any surprises? What was the coolest computer you saw? Which innovator had the most interesting personal story? Did any new questions come up during your visit? What do you think the future holds?