Kidzu Children’s Museum has inhabited several locations during its nearly a decade of operations in Chapel Hill. And they are scheduled to open their new 8,500-square foot facility in University Mall in mid-March.

But, Kidzu will be holding a series of pre-opening events throughout the month of February. The first will be coming up this Saturday with a free jump rope performance followed by a workshop; donations are requested for the latter portion of the event.

A list of the pre-opening events is below:

February 7
Bouncing Bulldogs (1:15pm-2pm performance; workshop 2pm-3pm, donation requested)
The area’s favorite, award-winning athletic group presents a free jump rope performance and jump rope workshop to benefit Kidzu. Enjoy an afternoon of fun and fitness, sportsmanship and teamwork! In conjunction with University Mall’s 23rd Annual Summer Camp Fair (10am-2pm)

February 14
American Dance Festival • 2pm-3pm
Come celebrate Valentine’s Day with Kidzu and the American Dance Festival! Through sounds, rhythms, and creative movements, Jody Cassell and Jude Casseday will create a heart-warming dance experience that is great fun for children and their families. Bring your Valentine to Kidzu and dance your heart out!

February 21
Dental Health Month • 10am-12pm
Southern Village Pediatric Dentistry
Staff of Southern Village Pediatric Dentistry and Kidzu presents an interactive Growing Healthy Smiles event featuring dental-related stories, answers to questions about tooth care and puppets to demonstrate proper brushing techniques. Each child will get a chance to practice their brushing skills with the puppet and take home a “dental goodie bag.”

February 28
Teddy Bear Clinic • 10am-2pm
UNC Hospital Nursing Diversity Council
Doctors, nurses and other professionals will help children learn about health procedures by “examining” a brought or borrowed teddy bear, doll or stuffed animal of their choice. Kidzu staff will register their “patient” and children will follow along as the toy passes through examination procedures with UNCH Nursing Staff. This event aims to help young children feel less afraid about medical procedures and equipment. Chapel Hill ambulance and EMTs will also be visiting in the parking lot to allow kids to explore and learn about their important work in the community.