Family activities at the MFA, Boston, ongoing

Now that the weather's getting downright chilly, we're all looking for indoor activities to engage and inspire our kids -- and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston has a number of ways to do just that. First, on any day you visit you can stop by the Sharf Visitor Center to check out a family activity tote bag filled with a variety of self-guided gallery activities, a sketchpad, and colored pencils to enhance your visit to the MFA. (Recommended for families with children ages 4 and up.) On Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., you can visit the Family Art Cart and discover the MFA with fun (and educational) activities designed for children ages 4 and up to do with adults in the galleries. Piece together puzzles, learn mythical tales, and uncover ancient Egyptian mysteriea. Choose from the ever-changing array of interactive activities, books and Art Cards. Borrow a tote bag equipped with a sketch-book and colored pencils, and the Cart's staff will point you on your way! Look for the Family Art Cart in the Shapiro Family Courtyard. Finally, why not try your hand at creating your own masterpieces, with the "Drawing in the Galleries" program? On Wednesdays, from 6-9 p.m., artists of all ages can sketch from live models and from objects in the MFA collections. A facilitator provides insights on drawing technique and the artist-model relationship as it informs the creation of artwork. Drawing materials are provided to encourage spontaneous participation. All listed programs are free with museum admission: adults, $25; seniors, $23; students (18+), $23; six and under, and members, free. Ages 7-17, free on weekdays after 3 p.m., on weekends, and on Boston public school holidays, otherwise admission for this age group is $10. The Museum is open 7 days a week: Mon. & Tues., 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.; Wed. - Fri., 10 a.m. - 9:45 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. The Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. www.mfa.org