March is “National Reading Month”. We love to read at the Museum all year long, but we’re excited to give it some attention this month. One of the ways we encourage our guests to read while they are here is through the descriptions within some of the exhibits. Reading them aloud to children or encouraging
Play is an essential part of human life, and our most important goal at the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota Play is not just about having fun or enjoying oneself–though that’s probably our favorite part–it also has a range of benefits. We often talk about those benefits loosely, so we decided to dive deep into
Mankato—February 22, 2023—The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is thrilled to welcome Jaci Sprague as the new Vice President of Development. Sprague comes to the Museum with a wealth of knowledge and experience, along with a passion for community, nonprofits, and education. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and to be joining an incredible team. I
MAY THERE ALWAYS BE JIM GILL! We are so excited to have partnered with author, musician, and child development specialist Jim Gill to bring the Southern Minnesota community an opportunity to work together and create a piece of art! On Tuesday, February 21 from 1pm to 2pm, the Museum will host a live VIRTUAL concert
By Erin Westfall, D.O., family medicine physician, Mayo Clinic Health System Dental infections are one of the most common infections in children. The health of your children’s teeth affects their overall health. Though dentistry has come a long way with the latest dental advancements, you still have to play an active role in your child’s
The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota was founded in 2006 by community members, educators, and business leaders who wanted a safe and inviting place for children to play, learn, and grow. With hard work and the dedication of many team members over many years, in 2015, the current location opened and continues to grow. On
Lower stress levels, better sleep, increased learning. At the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, we’re always listing the benefits of play, but this week, we’re looking at a part of play that truly appeals to all ages: music! We have had many musical events at the Museum, and 2023 will bring many more. Everyone knows
Making a huge mess with paints or clay or mud in the backyard or the driveway is easy to do in the warm months. We encourage it at the Museum in our Mud Kitchen! But when the weather is not so delightful, the thought of making huge messes inside for the sake of play is
The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota has been committed to access for all since it was no more than an idea in a mom’s head. A place for all children to play, and as a result, learn and grow. We believe all ages benefit from time spent playing, specifically with us at the Museum! Which
We will never stop sharing how very valuable play is to the development and growth of all people (not just kids!). We will also never stop sharing the incredibly LONG list of benefits play offers. In this series, we will look at those benefits more in-depth, including how caregivers can foster the growth both as
This year marked the eighth year in our current location, and we think 2022 was the best year yet! The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is growing and changing, while still maintaining a focus on PLAY. Our impact in the community is far-reaching, and we could not do it without all of your support. Let’s
Something new we’re trying at the Museum this year is keeping the outside play areas open during the cold winter months. What is Minnesota without snow-building, mitten-wearing, and rosy cheeks? The weather isn’t going anywhere, so it is important we teach our children to enjoy it. If we find joy in the snow and cold,