Across the Caribbean, folk artists have long crafted tiny painted casitas, the countryside houses of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Cuba and Curaçao, and CMOM's makerspace turns that tradition into a take-home project. Kids design a little house and paint a scene around it, learning a slice of island architecture as they go. If you need a weekday-friendly indoor plan, including a school-day afternoon, this craft runs most of the week.
What to expect
Drop into the museum's makerspace during session hours, where staff set out materials and examples of Caribbean casitas. Children build and paint their own miniature scene at their own pace, then carry it home. It pairs easily with the museum's exhibits and, on the weekend, the Hispanic Heritage Month dance workshops.
Good to know
- CMOM is at 212 West 83rd Street; take the 1 train to 86th Street or the B/C to 81st Street.
- Admission covers all exhibits and daily public programs, and you can leave and re-enter the same day with a return sticker.
- Booking tickets online saves a little and reserves your entry.
- Listed for ages 5 and up; younger siblings can explore the museum's toddler areas.
- Dress kids in clothes that can handle paint.
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Common questions
Is the casita craft included with admission?
Yes. CMOM says admission includes all exhibits and daily public programs.
Can kids take their casita home?
Yes. The project is a take-home casita scene.
Are there weekday sessions?
Yes. The craft runs both morning and afternoon on weekdays during its run, and afternoons on the weekend.