UPDATE: The Museum will be closed for our annual maintenance weeks from Monday, September 2 (Labor Day) - Tuesday, September 17. Not only will the museum be taking on annual exhibit maintenance during these closing weeks, but construction will begin on the two new second floor exhibits, set to open to the public in early 2025 (learn more below).

“While the museum is closed in early September, our construction team will be tackling the most disruptive work so we can stay open to the public during the remainder of 2024 while the new finishes and exhibits are being completed,” shared CMNH President Jane Bard.

The museum reopens on Wednesday, September 18, and while a few existing exhibits will be relocated and modified to accommodate the construction, the Dino Detective exhibit will not be available.

CMNH Facility Expansion - opening late 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: