Children’s museums provide hands-on learning experiences and interactive activities for children. The first museum was founded in 1899, and now there are over 300 in the US. Two international professional organizations exist, and the largest children’s museum is in Indianapolis. Parents should call ahead and visit the museum’s website to plan their visit. Children can guide their parents through the exhibits, and parents should participate as much as possible.
A children’s museum is a non-profit institution that provides children with hands-on learning experiences and interactive activities, because children learn through exploration and play. The first museum for children, called the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, was founded in the year 1899.
As the years have gone by, more and more children’s museums have been established in the United States. The second children’s museum established was the Boston Children’s Museum in the year 1913. The largest children’s museum in the world, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis opened its doors to the public in 1925.
There are two international professional organizations of children’s museums. They are the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) and The Hands On! European Association of Children’s Museums (HO!E). Museums that are members of the ACM allow museum members to get free admission to all other children’s museums that are members of the association. There are currently about 300 children’s museums in the United States; they are one of the fastest growing types of museums in the world.
In 2006, over 30 million people visited an ACM-affiliated children’s museum. People love to visit these institutions because children’s museums arouse a child’s curiosity and turn him or her into a lifelong student. Children and families have fun together as they explore exhibits related to history, science or art. Children are encouraged to touch and explore a variety of exhibits as they learn about the world around them.
Typical exhibits may include a bubble inflating station, a rock climbing wall, a 19th-century ship where kids can pretend to sail and fish, and a host of other fun activities. Children can learn about art, different cultures or just read a book. The goal is to encourage children to become active learners in an informal, non-threatening environment.
Parents who wish to take their children to a museum designed for children should call the museum in advance. This way, parents can learn about the museum’s special programs, upcoming exhibits, and activities for specific age groups. Parents can find age-appropriate activities for every child in the family, tailoring the visit to their family’s needs.
A good way to find out more about a children’s museum is to visit its website. The museum’s website usually lists important details such as directions to the museum, opening hours, and admission fees. The website will also provide a list of upcoming events or special exhibits.
When visiting a museum designed for young children, parents should let their children guide them through the galleries. Allow children time to explore the various exhibits at their own pace so they can get the most benefit from the museum experience. Most importantly, parents should try to participate as much as possible. This is an opportunity for parents to explore the museum together with their children, learning about science, history and art through colorful and hands-on exhibits.
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