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 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
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.
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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