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2025 Exhibit Expansion

CMNH Facility Expansion - opening early 2025

Why do we need to grow?

  • Current lack of childcare and preschool openings are driving a need for socialization and learning opportunities for children ages 0-5.

  • As visitor numbers increase and community needs change, flexible space allows us to be responsive.

  • Feedback indicates urgent need for resources to support child and family emotional wellbeing.

What to Expect at the Museum this Winter


What will we create?

"Little Farmers"

  • An exhibit designed for children ages 0-5

  • Caters to young children's boundless fascination with farms and farming

  • Activities filled with sensory experiences curated specifically for this age

  • More space for young learners is needed as our Primary Place (current 0-3 exhibit) is frequently overcrowded and overstimulating

The Impact of "Little Farmers":

  • Enhances fine and gross motor skills, early literacy, child-caregiver relationships, and empathy/mental health development

  • Promotes connections between caregivers and children, crucial to the social-emotional development of young children during the early years

  • Provides a safe space for caregivers to connect and form relationships


"Play Loft"

  • A creative open space dedicated to flexible and changing exhibits

  • Hosts rotating themes and activities that inspire movement and gross motor development

  • This area will also be utilized for playgroups, community groups, school field trips, and active pursuits like family yoga, music making, and dance

The Impact of the "Play Loft":

  • Changing exhibits keep the Museum engaging for Members and frequent visitors, driving attendance revenue

  • Flexible space allows CMNH to respond to changing needs of families and new opportunities in the community

  • Bolsters children's behavioral and emotional wellbeing and educates caregivers on ways to support their child's mental health


What is the Play Loft?

How can I help?

With an estimated project cost of $420,000, the expansion will only come to life with the support of our community, and we encourage you to consider a generous gift to help us do the important work of engaging children through play. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new exhibits, and we look forward to celebrating our continued growth together.

DONATE NOW >>


Thank you to all the businesses and foundations who have stepped forward to support this expansion through purchasing tax credits or with generous donations:

J Group including: The Sailmaker's House, Vida Cantina, 106 Grill, White Heron Tea, Bibimbap, Jumpin' Jay's Fish Cafe, GC Fine Foods, Cemita, The Franklin, Dos Amigos Burritos, Liars Bench, and Railpenny Tavern

Stinson & Associates, CPA

First Seacoast Bank

Newburyport Bank

Piscataqua Savings Bank

Beth Israel Lahey Health at Exeter Hospital

Grappone Automotive Group

Meredith Village Savings Bank

Leone, McDonnell & Roberts

Chinburg Builders, Inc.

Nathan Wechsler & Company, PA

Eastern Propane & Oil

Revision Energy

Sanders & Karcher/Bassinger Limited PC

Cleveland, Waters & Bass P.A.

Elm Grove Companies

Roger R. and Theresa S. Thompson Foundation

Evelyn S. and K.E. Barrett Foundation

DeStefano & Associates

BankW Staffing

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