Faculty and Staff Engagement
About Take Your Junior Patriot to Work
Take Your Junior Patriot to Work is George Mason’s version of the national Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, whose focus is to "expose children to what a parent or mentor does during the work day; showing them the value of their education, helping them discover the power and possibilities of work and family life, providing a chance to share how they envision the future, and allowing them to begin steps toward their goals in a hands-on and interactive environment." The national event takes place on the 4th Thursday of April.
Human Resources partners with Fairfax, Mason Square, and Sci-Tech business units to offer diverse and robust programs for the Take Your Junior Patriot to Work event. Sessions are focused on social interaction, career enhancement, guided learning, enhanced overall well-being (all dimensions of wellness), and so much more. Business units provide a sneak peek into their world at George Mason and provide an opportunity for Junior Patriots to engage in that world.
For questions, contact the Faculty and Staff Engagement team at engagehr@gmu.edu.
Participants will be asked to complete a SignUpGenius and register for each activity/event that they plan to attend with their Junior Patriot. Those with a consent form on file will be sent the link to register for the various sessions. Sign-ups help George Mason units plan appropriately for the number of attendees.
Consent Form Required: Complete the Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day Consent Form in preparation of the event. All participants must have a form on file prior to attending with their Junior Patriots.
Please Note: Parents/Guardians are responsible for maintaining care, custody, and control of their child(ren) and for supervising them at all times during the day.
Those with a consent form on file will be sent a SignUpGenius link, via email, to reserve your spot for the activity sessions.
Campus Map
View the Fairfax campus map to find all the session locations!
All-Day Exclusive Deals
Bookstore Discount
Johnson Center, First Floor
Get your Mason pride on with a 20% discount on all George Mason Gear and branded products at the Bookstore! Must have your Junior Patriot and your Mason ID in-store to enjoy this exclusive offer.
Mason Dining Discount
Fairfax Campus Dining Halls
Enjoy a family-friendly lunch! Kids under 12 eat free at any of the dining halls during lunch.
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Welcome and Junior Patriot Palooza - all ages
Merten Lawn
Get ready for a morning filled with fun, creativity, and community! Strike a pose with the Patriot. Engage in crafting time with your Human Resources colleagues. Plus, you won't want to miss our Taylor Swift-inspired "Make Your Own Bracelet" station, where you can craft a personalized piece and exchange it with others for a little extra sparkle. You can also get creative and spread positivity at our "Painting Kindness Rocks" station, where every stroke adds color to kindness.
It's a great way to connect, create, and have fun with fellow Patriots—see you there!
Drop in any time during the session.
Jam with the Green Machine - all ages
Merten Lawn
Join us as we rock out with the famous George Mason University Green Machine Pep Band. Feel the energy and excitement as they get the crowd pumped up! It's the perfect way to celebrate the "Take Your Junior Patriot to Work" event and create lasting memories with your family.
Drop in any time during the session.
Junior Patriot Scavenger Hunt - all ages
Various Locations
The George Mason Staff Senate is excited to offer a Junior Patriot Scavenger Hunt for families! Pick up your passport card at Merten Lawn during the Palooza between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. and collect your first stamp as you spend the day adventuring together across campus in search of more hidden stamps. Collect five stamps and submit your completed passport to the Staff Senate to be entered to win a prize of George Mason swag!
Blender Bike - all ages
Merten Lawn
Start your day off with a ride on the Blender Bike and make your own fresh fruit smoothie.
Drop in any time during the session.
GMU Athletics Kids Club! - ages 12 and under
Merten Lawn
Stop by the GMU Kids Club table to learn how to sign up and get your young fan in the game!
Drop in any time during the session.
9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Hip Hop Dance Class Observation - ages 11 - 18 years
deLaski Performing Arts Building, Room A300
Wake up to vibrant music while watching dance majors in their morning Hip-Hop class. Parents, grab your coffee and watch your child groove in their seat. Smiles guaranteed!
Drop in any time during the session.
9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Emergency Operations Center Lego Build Challenge - all ages
Police and Safety Headquarters, Second Floor, room 230
Junior Patriots will step into a dynamic, hands-on environment where they'll explore how the RSR-Emergency Management team manages events and responds to emergencies. With interactive stations and engaging activities, Junior Patriots will get a behind-the-scenes look at how we help keep the George Mason community safe and connected.
Drop in any time during the session.
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Reading Circles - ages infant - 5 years
Fenwick Library, Reading Room 2001
Immerse your little ones in the magical world of storytelling at our Reading Circles! Join us at Fenwick Library, Reading Room 2001, where we'll provide delectable treats and beverages to enhance the experience. Plus, don't miss your chance to win one of three fabulous book prizes in our exciting raffle!
Drop in any time during the session.
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Verbal Aikido: Conflict De-escalation for Kids - ages 6 - 13 years
Johnson Center, Third Floor, Room D
This is an introduction to Verbal Aikido for parents and children. Learn skills to manage verbal attacks and tension.
Please arrive at the start of the session.
Brain Break: Creative and Mindful Play - all ages
George's, Johnson Center, Third Floor
Join the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community and the Office of Faculty Affairs for a fun-filled time of blowing bubbles, coloring, playdough, kids' yoga, and creating your very own self-care kit! Healthy snacks will be provided!
Drop in any time during the session.
Costello College Junior Innovators - ages 5 - 18 years
Johnson Center, Third Floor, Room 325
Join us for the Costello Junior Innovators Event! Costello Junior Innovators is like “Shark Tank” for junior patriots: aspiring entrepreneurs work in teams with Costello College of Business faculty mentors to create an innovation. Teams will then present their idea to a panel of faculty judges and compete for College of Business prizes. The activity is friendly and fun for all ages, and will take approximately 90 minutes, including breaks, refreshments, and a reception for Junior Innovators, their parents, and Costello faculty and staff.
Please arrive at the start of the session.
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Recycle, Create, Protect Our Planet! - ages 7 - 13 years
Facilities and Campus Operations Recycling Center (10402 Rivanna River Way)
Come behind the scenes at Facilities and Campus Operations to see how George Mason recycles. Explore how materials are sorted and discover how recyclables get a second life. Use recyclable materials to make art! Giveaways for all Junior Patriots!
Drop in any time during the session.
10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Lights, Camera, Action: Patriots Photo Booth and Fuel Station - all ages
109 Northern Neck
Let’s celebrate the next generation of innovators! Take a break in our Future Leaders Lounge for a photo op and snack break. Take home a fun photo keepsake to commemorate the experience. After striking a pose, power up at our snack station to keep you energized. Don’t miss the chance to capture the spirit of the day!
Drop in any time during the session.
11 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Observe Ballet Class to Live Music - ages 6 - 18 years
deLaski Performing Arts Building, Room A300
Come celebrate the beauty of Spring and watch poetry in motion, as our dance majors take their daily ballet class. With live music accompaniment, you will leave inspired to dance.
Drop in any time during the session.
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Coloring and Craft Activity - ages infant -10 years
Fenwick Library, Room 1014 A & B
Dive into a captivating exhibition showcasing a diverse selection of children and young adult books and media, all ready to be explored and borrowed. Get creative with coloring and activity sheets galore in Fenwick 1014 A&B and indulge in delicious food and refreshing beverages as you delve into the literary wonders. Plus, don't miss your opportunity to win big in our raffle, with three fabulous book prizes up for grabs!
Drop in any time during the session.
Center for the Arts Guided Tour - all ages
Center for the Arts, meet in the Main Lobby
Join us at the Center for the Arts for a guided tour of our theater! Attendees will get to go behind the scenes at the Center and see how the stage magic is made.
Please arrive at the start of the session.
Stuffed Animal Clinic with Employee Health & Well-Being - all ages
Police and Safety Headquarters, Second Floor, room 230
Junior Patriots can bring their favorite stuffed animal or toy for a quick health check-up with the EHW team. A health certificate will be provided for each toy that comes through the clinic.
Drop in any time during the session.
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Playtime for Connection and Well-Being - ages 6 - 18 years
Merten Lawn
Engage in playtime with facilitators from Playful Campus to explore how coming together in play allows us to try new things, connect with others, and engage in a feeling of flow.
Drop in any time during the session.
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Picnic on the Lawn - all ages
Merten Lawn
Bring your own picnic and join fellow George Mason families on the Merten Lawn for engaging conversation and casual play. Enjoy a variety of lawn games including cornhole, yard Jenga, Viking chess, ladder ball, and more, as we celebrate the importance of physical activity and social connection.
Drop in any time during the session.
12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Interview with Ian Doescher, author of the Star Wars Experience Series - all ages
Horizon Hall, room 1204
Join our Shakespeare class as we celebrate Shakespeare’s birth/death-iversary with a live interview with the author of the Star Wars Shakespeare series, Ian Doescher.
Drop in any time during the session.
12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Athletics Field Day Experience - ages infant - 13 years
GMU Soccer Field (GMU Athletics Field House in case of inclement weather)
Get ready for a fun, interactive Field Day with our GMU Athletics student-athletes. We are thrilled to welcome you to campus for a day full of excitement! There will be several rotational stations for everyone to enjoy, featuring face painting, soccer challenges, cornhole, the GMU inflatable photo station, and more. Please remember to wear athletic shoes and comfortable clothing so you can participate in the fun. We look forward to seeing you. Go Patriots!
Drop in any time during the session.
Literacy Engagement Action Project - ages infant - 10 years
Merten Lawn
Stop by to receive pre-k and elementary grade learner-focused literacy materials to support teachers, families, and students.
Drop in any time during the session.
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
From Pages to Pavement, hosted by the Carter School - ages 3 - 7 years
Merten Hall, First Floor, Room 1202
Join us for From Pages to Pavement, a joyful story time and art activity for children ages 3–7! After a live reading of Live Gently by Kim Hanzo, Junior Patriots will head outdoors to “Chalk Peace,” turning sidewalks into colorful messages of kindness using fun, ready-made designs.
Please arrive at the start of the session.
The Great Shaving Cream Challenge with Environmental Health & Safety - all ages
Police & Safety Headquarters, Second Floor, room 230
Junior Patriots will do their best to safely remove gloves covered in shaving cream without getting any shaving cream on their body. EHS staff will demonstrate safe glove removal procedures and provide education on proper handwashing technique.
Drop in any time during the session.
Junior Firefighters - all ages
Police & Safety Headquarters Parking Lot (weather permitting)
Junior Patriots will receive a quick lesson in proper fire extinguisher operation and will then get a chance to practice putting out a real fire with the help of a fire safety professional.
Drop in any time during the session.
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Arts & Crafts at Skyline - ages infant - 13 years
Skyline Fitness Center Lobby
We hope you’ll join us for a recreation-focused coloring event at Skyline Fitness Center! Junior Patriots will have a blast unleashing their creativity with coloring pages, stickers, markers, and more in a safe, welcoming environment. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore their imagination, make new friends, and take home their very own handmade masterpieces. All supplies are provided—just bring your smiles and get ready for creative fun!
Drop in any time during the session.
1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Color, Craft & Create - ages infant - 18 years
SUB 1, Disability Services Conference Room 1501
Get ready to color, craft, and create! Kids will enjoy a variety of fun activities including coloring pages, simple crafts, and making their own fidgets to take home. A perfect space to get creative and have fun!
Drop in any time during the session.
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Mason Police Touch-A-Truck: Touch-A-Truck Extravaganza - all ages
Road between Merten Hall and the Rappahannock Parking Garage
Join George Mason Police to see their emergency vehicles (trucks, police cars, motorcycles, drone, and more!). Meet first responders and discover the roles they play in the safety of our community.
Drop in any time during the session.
Junior Patriot Game Room Takeover - ages 6 - 18 years
The HUB, Lower Level, Corner Pocket
Join Student Centers and University Life for free play at the Corner Pocket game room on all billiards, table tennis, foosball, air hockey, arcade games, video games, VR, and more!
Drop in any time during the session.
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
College Jeopardy: Test your Knowledge and Win George Mason Swag - ages 11 - 13 years
Johnson Center, Room E
Think you know what college is all about? Put your knowledge to the test in College Jeopardy, an exciting trivia game hosted by the Office of Admissions! Designed for 6th–8th graders, this session will start off with a short info session to introduce you to fun and important facts about college and its application process. Then, you’ll work with a team to answer Jeopardy-style questions about application terms, Mason campus life and traditions, and college facts. Learn something new while competing against other teams in a fast-paced, friendly challenge. The team with the most points at the end will take home bags with Mason college swag!
Please arrive at the start of the session.
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Let's Play! Pickleball for All! - ages 6 - 18 years
Mason Recreation Activities Building
Join Mason Recreation for an overview of pickleball! We will learn the basics of pickleball, meet new friends, and enjoy fun competition.
Drop in any time during the session.
Computer Game Design and the Virginia Serious Game Institute - ages 11 - 18 years
Art & Design Building, Room 2002
What does it take to create a Computer Game? Join us and find out about the classes offered in our program to help you decide if this is your passion.
Please arrive at the start of the session.
2:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Design Your Own Ceramic Coaster - all ages
Northern Neck, Center for the Advancement of Well-Being
Decorate a ceramic coaster with fun colors and designs and take home a creative keepsake from your day at George Mason!
Drop in any time during the session.
All-Day Exclusive Deals
Bookstore Discount
Van Metre Hall, First Floor
Get your Mason pride on with a 20% discount on all George Mason Gear and branded products at the Bookstore! Bring your Junior Patriot and your Mason ID in-store to enjoy this exclusive offer.
Junior Patriot Lunch Cart
The Plaza at Mason Square
A quick and tasty option for our Junior Patriots and their grown-ups! Stop by the hot dog cart and enjoy a classic combo: a beef hot dog with your choice of regular or gluten-free bun and a bag of chips for $7 per person. Top it off with your favorite condiments and get back to the fun!
Payment accepted via cash or credit card.
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
ACFD Bomb Unit Vehicle Display & GMUPD K9 Demonstration - all ages
Van Metre Hall, Auditorium
Come learn about what the GMU PD does and join the fun activities and presentations they have planned. Each session will include dressing up like a GMU cop, a demo on latent fingerprinting, 911 coloring pages, and an EOD K9 unit demonstration.
Drop in any time during the session.
10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Courtroom Tour & Photo Opportunity - all ages
Antonin Scalia Law School, Courtroom, Hazel Hall room 123
Order in the court! Explore a mock courtroom on the law school campus and snap a photo behind the bench as the judge.
Drop in any time during the session.
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Junior Patriot Scavenger Hunt - all ages
Mason Square Library
The George Mason Staff Senate will host a Junior Patriot Scavenger Hunt during Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day.
Drop in any time during the session.
Library Coloring and Crafts - all ages
Mason Square Library, Van Metre Hall, Second Floor
Channel your creativity in the calm and quiet of the Mason Square Library. Delightful crafts, coloring pages, and snacks will be provided to enhance the magic of the library.
Drop in any time during the session.
10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Storytime with the Mason Square Library - all ages
The Plaza at Mason Square
Immerse your little ones in the favorite stories and picture books of the Mason Square Library team. Pull up a seat, cushion, or beanbag chair and savor hearing new or treasured stories.
Drop in any time during the session.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
GMU PD Drone Display & Demonstration - all ages
The Plaza at Mason Square
Join the GMU PD to Explore Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) display and flight simulator with our sUAS unit members.
Drop in any time during the session.
11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Cookie Decorating Party - all ages
The FUSE Building (The Fuse Exchange)
Let creativity (and a little sugar!) take the lead at our cookie decorating party. Junior Patriots can design their own fresh-baked sugar cookies using Mason-inspired icing colors—green, white, and yellow—and a variety of fun toppings like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, gummy bears, crushed Oreos, and more.
Each participant will have everything they need to decorate like a pro, plus a take-home box to enjoy their sweet creation later!
1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Rug Tufting Craft & Exhibition Tour - Living the Prescription - 0 - 10 years
Founders Gallery & Auditorium
We will be doing a rug tufting craft activity led by artist Naje Fields. The curator of the gallery will also give a brief exhibition tour.
Drop in any time during the session.
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Bubbles & Chalk Party - all ages
The Plaza at Mason Square
Join us on the Plaza at Mason Square for a bubble and sidewalk chalk party!
Drop in any time during the session.
2 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Learn about Rehabilitation Robotics - ages 6 - 18 years
The FUSE Building, room 7402 (The EMPOWER Lab)
Take a peek inside the EMPOWER Lab and learn about wearable robotics for mobility and function.
Drop in any time during the session.
There are several sustainability features and initiatives on Mason’s Fairfax campus that you can actually interact with, volunteer at, or just visit. These include green buildings, campus gardens, stormwater features, zero waste installations, bike check outs, EV charging, living lab sites, wildlife areas and more.
Explore the University Sustainability Map/Walking Tour of Sustainability!