Clifford makes big impression at The Woodlands Children's Museum

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog, a traveling exhibit, has landed in The Woodlands Children’s Museum in Panther Creek. The exhibition, which opened Friday, Jan. 18, will be here to delight young and old alike through May 12.

“Clifford the Big Red Dog” is an American children's book series which was first published in 1963. Norman Bridwell, the author of the series, was surprised when his idea was accepted for publication. Now, so many years later, Clifford is still a beloved childhood figure. Scholastic Entertainment has also featured Clifford in a popular animated television series.

This classic canine character has such a timeless appeal as he teaches children important qualities and life lessons. Angela Colton, the executive director of The Woodlands Children’s Museum, said, “Clifford, the big red dog, personifies love, kindness, helpfulness, gratitude, compassion, & forgiveness.” “Clifford’s books personify all of these simple virtues that we hope to make children understand and create differences in their life. Clifford, the big red dog, will make a difference in our community, and we are very, very grateful to have him with us,” said Colton.

The museum had been seeking the chance to bring Clifford to the children of The Woodlands, waiting for the timing to be right. Colton said, “Opportunity presented itself ... We also had the choice of Curious George, but Clifford just matched our virtues. Clifford matched our mission to educate, empower and excite children through play, and Clifford is playful.” The Woodlands Children’s Museum invites adults as well as children to continue to play. “We all need a little more play in our lives,” Colton said.

Friday, Jan. 18 was the grand opening of this long-awaited exhibition with the adored characters from Birdwell Island. The community came together to share in the excitement of this event and welcome Clifford into our neighborhood. Colton said, “It takes a village to bring all of this together, and we can’t wait to share Clifford with you!”

The exhibit includes hands-on activities that teach 10 simple yet vital skills such as work together, be responsible and help others. You and your young ones can share in all this educational fun now through Sunday, May 12. Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The Woodlands Children’s Museum is located at 4775 West Panther Creek Drive #280, The Woodlands, TX 77381.