New York Times bestselling author Jessica Lahey delivers thought-provoking speech about intrinsic learning and loving the kids we have, not the ones we wish we had

Luncheon raises $180,000 for Museum’s early childhood and parenting programs

Chaired by Caroline Bean and Lacey Goossen

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HOUSTON (March 15, 2023) - Children’s Museum Houston and chairs Caroline Bean and Lacey Goossen raised $180,000 during the 2023 Friends and Families Luncheon on March 1, 2023, at the River Oaks Country Club.  Keynote speaker and New York Times best-selling author, Jessica Lahey, shared tips about how parents can instill a passion for lifelong learning in their children and engage in something their children care about. Lahey explained that through intrinsic learning, parents can build children’s autonomy and competence and show them that oftentimes the process is more important than the achievement. Lahey’s thought-provoking speech challenged parental ideals about accepting what their children are rather than longing for what their children should be.  Her speech resonated with the more than 300 parents, educators, families, and friends in attendance.  KHOU 11 Anchor Chita Craft served as Mistress of Ceremony.

Guests noshed on a scrumptious meal of roasted poblano soup, grilled chicken parmesan, Brussel sprouts salad with pomegranate and toasted almonds and key lime pie with fresh seasonal berries catered by River Oaks Country Club.  Beautiful floral centerpieces, donated by Central Market, created a vivid and colorful Spring setting.  Attendees had the opportunity to participate in an exclusive raffle which included Houston Rockets floor seats, stylish items from luxury retails Mirth and á bientôt, and a weekend stay at the Royal Sonesta. Guests were sent home with custom cookie party favors donated by Village Bakery.

The Marian and Speros Martel Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award finalists were recognized at the event:  Christie Bishop, Genoa Elementary (Pasadena ISD); Te’Andrea James, School at St. George Place (HISD); Arielle Moore, School at St. George Place (HISD); and Adrienne Rance, Beth Yeshurun Day School.  The award is presented annually to an outstanding professional who possesses an exemplary commitment to young children’s education.

Shoutout to Patron supporters: Julie Alexander, Caroline and Andrew Bean, Allie and Jay Fields/Fields Companies, Annand Peter Fluor, Lacey and Matt Goossen; and Friends supporters: Kathy and Marty Goossen, Nicole Katz, Christie McCartney, Megan MacIntyre/Title Houston Holdings, Memorial Hermann, Charlene Pate, Dr. Barbara Samuels, Courtney and Bas Solleveld/CIBS PWM, and Krystal Crane Thompson.

The luncheon was a resounding success raising funds for the Museum’s early childhood and parenting programs which focus on building parenting skills, providing information on child development and engaging families in the joy of learning together.