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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the social studies days take place?

Gold Rush Day and Colonial Day can take place completely outside or a combination of outside and inside! If classrooms are available, some of the stations can be held inside utilizing student desks. We rarely use the cafeteria because of conflicts with breakfast and lunch. However, if it is a hot day we will ask to use the cafeteria after lunch for the Virginia Reel for Colonial Day. 

Where do the science inquiries take place?

Our science inquiries have two parts: the opening demonstration and the hands-on experiments. The demonstration is held in your school cafeteria immediately following breakfast. The hands-on experiments can be held in classrooms or the cafeteria or a combination of both, depending on your facilities. 

What grade level is appropriate for the different events?

In order to make the events aligned with the current social studies and science standards, we focused on very specific curriculum.  Therefore the events are designed for the following grade levels.

Properties of Matter Inquiry - 2nd Grade

Forces and Motion Inquiry - 3rd Grade

Gold Rush Day - 4th Grade

Colonial Day - 5th Grade

Why is Gold Rush Day priced differently from Colonial Day?

Colonial Day includes costume accessories and teaching the Virginia Reel. Gold Rush Day does not include costuming or a dance. Although we do encourage students to dress up for Gold Rush Day in western wear.

What does The Cranium Company ask of you as teachers or admin?

1. Volunteers. We need extra hands to help the students through the stations. It is so much fun and parents love to see their students in action! Each event requires a different number of volunteers. (Usually between 4-6) We will discuss the number with each school individually.

2. Tables, chairs, access to electrical outlets, water and hose, trash cans, and pop-ups (if you have them.) These items are dependent on the event you book, the size and number of classes, and your location. In the reservation process we discuss your event in detail and customize the list of needs for your specific event.

How far in advance do we need to book?

We start taking reservations August 5th and August 19th. For our peak months of February, March, April and May, the earlier you book, the better chance you have of getting your desired day! 

When is the latest we can book before our desired date?

Please book no later than 4 weeks in advance. It takes time to prep for your specific school needs and we want the time to make it just right. If you book with less than 6 weeks until iyour event, there are NO CANCELLATIONS or REFUNDS. If you cancel with less than 6 weeks to your event, there are no refunds.

When is the deposit due and how much is it?

No deposit is required, but a signed contract by a school representative is required!

How do we pay for our event?

Payments are made by check. Checks payable to The Cranium Company can be mailed to 2754 W Newton Ct Visalia, CA 93291. A late fee will occur if payment is not made within 3i0 days of your event. 

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Should you need to cancel please do so in writing as soon as possible. If you cancel with less than 6 weeks before your event, there are no refunds. If you need to reschedule we are happy to help you find an available date. If you need to reschedule with less than 6 weeks, we will do our best to find an open date, but there are no guarantees of availability.

Reservations for 2024-2025

Reservations open on August 5th for Visalia and surrounding areas at 6am. For all other schools, reservations open at 6am on August 19th. If you would like to be placed on our priority booking list please email us ASAP so you will receive the link to the reservation form.

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Here is some information you should be prepared to have on hand to complete the form:

School name

Address

Phone number

Which event you would like to book

Number of Classes and students

Top 4 dates

Principal's name

A teacher to act as the Lead teacher and his or her email address

The names of all teachers

The name of the individual the invoice should be sent to

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Our first available date is Tuesday, October 1st

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If you are wanting to book multiple events please fill out a form for each event.

What areas do you serve?

We are very excited to serve elementary schools in the Central Valley! This includes all of Tulare County, Hanford, Lemoore, Corcoran, Selma, Reedley, Kingsburg, Dinuba, Fowler, Woodlake, Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Orange Cove, and MORE.  A travel fee may apply depending on your location.

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