Let’s Build a Children’s Science Museum in Bend!
We used to think that schools built the brains. Now we know that play builds the brains that the schools can then use.
- Dr Gordon Neufeld (Neurochild)
In an increasingly complex world, a Children’s Museum is a place where your child and others can experience the world through hands-on-play and exploration in surroundings designed just for them.
Why Bend?
Central Oregon is the only region in the state without a children’s museum and consequently, without access to quality informal education opportunities for the youngest members of the community. This region has grown exponentially over the past decade with over 15% of our residents being under the age of 14. Families and individuals visit and relocate here from major tech, art and science-oriented cities like Portland, Seattle, Denver, L.A., and the Bay area, where informal education opportunities abound.
Children and families in Central Oregon deserve access to these critical early childhood education opportunities.
Why Now?
Growing minds need a wide range of tactile experiences to accurately understand the natural world. It is difficult for most to provide such complex, interactive experiences in our homes.
But we can work together to build a children’s museum focused on inquiry-based learning strategies with open-ended exploration and fun for the whole family.
Why STEAM?
STEAM is an educational program that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as entry points for guiding students curiosity, conversations and critical thinking.
Research shows children as young as six months old can begin grappling with abstract and STEAM-based concepts. Introducing children to STEAM during the preschool and elementary school years unlocks their potential and prepares them to succeed in an evolving world.
Robust early childhood education programs increase test scores and high school graduation rates, resulting in a $5 to $17 return for every $1 invested.
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