The Power of Play!
Children’s Museums: Don’t Just Look, TOUCH!
Children are naturally curious about the world around them. But much of our public spaces are not designed in child-friendly ways. When children have the opportunity to play in environments that are both safe and engaging, they can practice basic skills, explore interests, and develop interpersonal bonds in appropriate ways. Instead of instructing children, these museums immerse them in the process learning! Think back to being a kid; would you rather look at a painting on a wall while someone tells you about it OR would you step through the frame, put on a costume, and become part of the art yourself? Want to learn about gears and pulleys? Let’s build a system and see how it moves things! In establishing our children’s museum, we create the environment, but the kids direct the learning. And when you are learning in a fun and engaging manner, practice and retention of skills and knowledge increases. Kids can pull their parents and caregivers into the learning process, creating the perfect opportunity for family bonding, and it’s all just play to them.
Our initial target age is birth to six years, filling a void in available and developmentally appropriate programming for this age group in our county. But that is just the start! With your support, we can open our doors for the little kids, and grow our exhibits as our kids grow. We need the community behind us if we are going to make Tuscarawas County just a bit more child and family centered. Contact us today to learn how you can be a part of this initiative as we go Full STEAM Ahead!