From What's in the Box for preschoolers to free tours, N.C. Museum of Art lines up variety of kid-friendly fun this week - and all year

The N.C. Museum of Art in Raleigh has some really fun activities for kids this week and weekend. They all are part of the museum's regular series of family programs, which I like to highlight from time to time.

Here's what's scheduled:

Perfect for preschoolers, ages 2 to 5, and their caregivers, this interactive preschool workshop introduces a work of art from the museum and includes activities that stretch the imagination. This week's topic: People - get up close and personal with people depicted in the museum's collection. The cost is $10 per child (adults are free). These are very popular. I recommend buying your tickets in advance. Another round of What's in the Box is set for Jan. 18 when the topic will be seasons and nature.

These free weekend tours are offered just about every weekend and are designed for kids ages 5 to 11 and their adults. This weekend, the topic is art detectives. Participants will look up close and untangle clues to find the hidden story in works of art. These are free.

This free drop-in activity lets all ages create a sculpture that's inspired by techniques and materials from artists across the African continent.