They say love is housed in the heart, but the only way to really find out is to take a scalpel and start cutting. Thanks to the Children’s Museum of Houston, kids can do exactly that. Their weekend of Valentine’s Day celebrations includes a chance to dissect a sheep’s heart.
“We’ve hosted dissection events before, and they always ‘pump up’ excitement,” said Henry Yau, Vice President of Public Relations at CMH, via email. “At first, there’s a mix of ‘Whoa!’ and ‘Ew!”’but that quickly turns into pure curiosity. Kids are naturally curious, and when they get the chance to explore real anatomy hands-on, their reactions range from wide-eyed wonder to fascinated focus. Once they get hands-on, they start making connections between what they see and how their own hearts work. Some might start off a little hesitant, but by the end, they’re asking questions, making connections, and feeling like real scientists. If this is their first time experiencing a real heart dissection, they’re in for an unforgettable, eye-opening experience!”
Sheep hearts are commonly used in anatomy studies because they are similar to human hearts in size, shape, and construction, as well as being far easier to source than ones from people. Heart implants meant for people are often tested on sheep first before moving on to human trials.
Hearts are obviously a common symbol for love and extremely prevalent around Valentine’s Day, a holiday centered around romantic affection. Surely the first thing that children will notice is that anatomical hearts look almost nothing like the pictographs seen on store-bought cards. The reason our cartoon hearts don’t resemble the actual organ is something of a mystery, but none of that should distract from the fun of learning via dissection.
“Dissecting a sheep’s heart gives kids a real-world, hands-on look at how their own hearts work,” Yau said. “They can actually see the chambers, valves, and vessels that keep blood pumping—way cooler than just reading about it in a book! It’s an aha! moment that blends curiosity, exploration, and a deeper appreciation for biology. Plus, they get to think like scientists, asking questions, making observations, and discovering how all the parts work together to keep us moving.”
Other activities available at CMH over Valentine’s Day weekend include handprint crafts, a music therapy workshop, and a chance to make headbands.
This weekend will also host one of CMH’s adult nights. U-Nite Out is a special event for 21+ only that allows grown-ups to explore and interact with the museum exhibits without worrying about chasing after their children.
Amenities will include cocktails, small bites, music from DJ Big Reeks, and special crafts for adults. So if you’ve ever wanted to share a tipsy kiss under the giant Telephone Man statue, go for it.
“Who says kids get to have all the fun?” Yau said. “At U-Nite Out, we’re giving adults a chance to let loose, play, and rediscover the joy of hands-on exploration—without the kiddos running the show! Ever wanted to launch rockets, tinker with circuits, or play with physics without waiting your turn? Now’s your chance! This event is a chance to break free from everyday stress, connect with friends (or a date!), and experience the museum in a completely new way. Add in music, drinks, and activities designed just for grown-ups, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable night out!”
Children events Friday, February 14 through Saturday, February 16 at Children’s Museum Houston, 1500 Binz. Adult night out Saturday, February 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 713-522-1138 or visit cmhouston.org. $17.95-$21.95. For adult event, prior registration encouraged due to limited space. $30-$50.
