Why An Entire Building Dedicated to Play?

Because play is never just play. A child’s play today can become tomorrow’s passion, purpose, and career. It’s the child who puts on a firefighter’s coat and starts dreaming about serving their community one day on the local fire department.

It’s the little artist who loses track of time creating, painting, and discovering that their ideas matter.

It’s the child building a robot, learning to code, or tinkering with an invention that sparks an interest in engineering, manufacturing, or technology.

It’s the farmer’s market, the dairy barn, and the tractor that help children understand where their food comes from and the people.

A children’s museum is so much more than a place to pass the time.

It’s a place where families find community and connection.

It’s a safe place for children to explore, imagine, and simply be kids..especially during our long winter months when opportunities for indoor play can be limited.

The Children’s Discovery Center will offer opportunities for area youth to explore the arts, STEM, agriculture, nature and build community and friendship all under one roof. Research tells us that play supports healthy brain development, problem-solving skills, confidence, creativity, and even youth mental health.

Through play, children practice resilience, build relationships, and discover who they are and who they might become.

Please consider helping us get this community project over the finish line.

There are so many ways to be part of this story. Through a financial gift, sponsor an exhibit, volunteer your time, connect us with potential supporters, or simply help spread the word. For more information or to donate, please visit discoverycentermn.org or email thechildrensdiscovery@gmail.com. Every act of generosity brings us one step closer to opening the doors.