
The Children's Discovery Center
A safe space for youth to explore, interact, and discover through play and programming.
Our Story
The vision of the Children’s Discovery Center started with a group of moms from diverse backgrounds in business, education, engineering, public health, and science. We came together in January 2021 with the common desire to create something more for the children in our community.

The Museum
The Children’s Discovery Center will be composed of two main areas, the Discovery Play Area and the STEM Discovery Lab serving various age groups:
The Discovery Play area, catering to children ages 0-12, is a haven for exploration and learning through imaginative play. Here, kids can dive deep into their imaginations and harness the power of play to absorb new concepts and skills.
Our facility proudly reflects the essence of our local industry and agriculture roots, providing a unique backdrop for learning and discovery.


For older youth, our STEM Discovery Lab awaits. Designed for ages 10 and up, this space is a hub of scientific exploration and innovation. Equipped with cutting-edge coding and robotics tools, magnetic resources, building kits, and more, it empowers young minds to delve into the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
With movable supplies and challenges to tackle, the lab inspires curiosity and drives innovation, igniting a passion for discovery that knows no bounds.

Mission & Vision
The Children’s Discovery Center provides a creative environment for youth to learn through imaginative and hand-on experiences. Bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds to share in the joy of play, exploration, and inquiry while fostering a deeper sense of community that advances our local culture of working together for the next generation.
Over the next generation, we envision our region thriving because families choose to live here, children's evolving needs are met, and our community grows with the reputation of being a great place to raise a family.

Economic Impacts
The Children's Discovery Center also plays a pivotal role in supporting our local economy by enhancing the quality of life for our residents and helps attract and retain a quality workforce to support local industry. As professionals seek out communities where their families can thrive, the presence of such facilities as the Children's Discovery Center becomes a decisive factor.
Thus, by investing in the Center, we not only invest in the future of our children but also in the economic vitality of our community as a whole. Together, we can build a future where every child has the opportunity to flourish, every family feels supported, our local industry is strong, and our community thrives for generations to come.
Why a Children's Museum?
Children's museums play a pivotal role in cultivating vibrant communities that prioritize the well-being and development of youth and families. These enriching spaces not only provide children with opportunities for interactive learning and exploration, but also serve as invaluable resources for parents seeking support and connection within their community.
By offering engaging exhibits, educational programs, and family-friendly events, children's museums create environments where parents can actively participate in their children's growth and development while forging meaningful connections with other families. Moreover, these museums often serve as gathering places where parents can exchange ideas, share experiences, and build a support network, alleviating the sense of isolation that many parents may feel.
In doing so, children's museums not only nurture the intellectual and social development of children but also contribute to the creation of strong, resilient communities where families feel empowered, supported, and connected.

Pop-Up Events
The Children's Discovery Center has applied for several grants, including one through the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), and we are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded $50,000 annually to immediately start serving the community. With this funding, we will be able to engage with the community through various events and host free pop-up events for youth, providing enriching and educational experiences that align with our mission. This grant marks a significant step forward in our efforts to bring play-based learning opportunities to the children of the Red River Valley!
Visit our events page to learn more about our upcoming pop-up events!

Board Members
Kristin Brevik, Board Member
Beth Deal, President
Joni Frolek, Treasurer
Madison Yaggie Schuler, Board Member


What We Are Hearing
Currently, our community lacks a space dedicated for youth and families. In our recent survey, 100% of survey respondents believe that there are not enough indoor options for children’s entertainment and enrichment.
The top response to “What would make our community a better place for families” was answered with “The Children’s Discovery Center!” The CDC would be filling a vocalized need in the community by providing a safe space for enrichment, education, and entertainment in order to build a stronger and more vibrant community for all residents.
Survey Feedback Was Resoundingly Positive:
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100% of respondents believe the Center would enhance life in our region.
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A majority expressed willingness to support the Center financially or through in-kind contributions.
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Without seeing detailed plans, 80% anticipated visiting the Center regularly.
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The predominant feedback on improving the region for young families centered on the Center and its offerings.
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Only a small fraction (5.5%) did not see the Center as a factor in staying local on weekends.
Sample Responses from 96 Written Surveys:
“[The Children's Discovery Center] would offer local families a great option to spend time as a family and encourage learning. This would definitely be a selling feature of our community and would help attract families looking to move here for work."
"I would be able to afford to bring them somewhere instead of driving so many miles away to do so."
"We live out of town, but it would sure bring us to the area more!"
"It would enrich our children. Give them a safe outlet to nourish positive behaviors. It would enable parents to grow their relationships and resources in a trusted environment. It would encourage families to get out in the community and not only try the Center but the restaurants and shops in the community boosting our economy and supporting our smaller locally owned businesses. It would also be a great selling point to those considering a smaller town feel with more modern family-orientated amenities."
"[The Children's Discovery Center] would make winter not so long!!"