Why is play vital for young children?

Providing Early Learning Experiences for Families

Filling the Museum's entire second level, the Gallery of Wonder builds on CMH's 40+ years of expertise in developing hands-on learning for young children. Its creation was led by Museum educators who have master's degrees in education and considerable experience working directly with families and young children. The Gallery is focused on learning through play and supporting parents as their children's first teachers. It has five new exhibits and a theater for children ages five and younger:

• Tot*Spot - Houston's favorite exhibit for infants and toddlers has been reinvented. Themed as a giant garden, this space has flowers overhead, a buzzy beehive, and a Baby Haven for newborns.
• Viva Village - With a car wash, home, and neighborhood businesses, the town of Viva Village is an exciting exhibit where children explore careers, caring, and community.
• Into the Woods - Active play and imagination come to life in this forest-themed exhibit that features climbing elements, slides, a pretend campfire, and woodland animals.
• Under the Waves - Calming lighting and sensory elements welcome children into the ocean as they explore a sunken ship and illuminated sea creatures.
• Treetop Terrace - Children go for a drive in this outdoor exhibit that features a road with ride-on cars, water tables, and portholes for viewing the Museum's courtyard.
• Ta-Da! Theater - With curtains, props, and plenty of seating for family members, this stage welcomes young thespians as well as guest presenters.

Complementing the learning in these exhibits, the Gallery of Wonder presents a full slate of programming, including more than 20 different offerings such as FamJam Friday meetups for new parents, music & movement sessions, and STEM activities led by degreed educators.

Opportunities like these are important for the 540,000+ young children who live in the Greater Houston area. Research shows that a child's first five years are key for setting the foundation for later success. The new Gallery is a substantial expansion of the Museum's offerings that positively impact children during their formative early years.