This post was written and sponsored by our partners at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix
Why Children’s Museums are Important
Have you ever visited a children’s museum? If you haven’t, have you ever wondered what might be inside? Children’s museums are magical spaces for children to test their limits, explore, imagine, create and do so much more.
By now, we’ve all heard the conversation taking place across the country about the importance of play in a child’s life. Recently, there was a huge outcry at one of the top elementary school districts in North Central Phoenix by parents who wanted to ensure that the district evaluates their recess policy in hopes of allocating more time during the school day for children to get outside and play.
But why is play so important? Play for adults is really just a fun time. Play for children, however, is work. Play = work. This is an interesting concept, and as adults, we may find it hard to wrap our heads around that idea. But when you really think about it, it makes complete sense. When children play, they are deeply engrossed in the process. They are using their imaginations in so many ways, whether to create a work of art, or an imaginary world in which to play in. They take risks and test their limits; they learn cause and effect and problem solving skills. They make friends, and they make sense of the world around them. During play, they use all of their glorious developmental skills: cognitive, expressive and receptive language, social/emotional, sensory, and motor (gross and fine).
Children’s museums are great places for children to do all of these things in a safe, nurturing, encouraging environment. And as parents, this is really important, since it may be challenging for us to feel comfortable letting our children play freely outdoors while they explore the neighborhood. Children’s museums are specifically designed for children, with exhibits and experiences that have been purposefully created with them in mind. How empowering it must feel for a child to enter a creative learning environment created just for them! The best part is – it doesn’t matter if they are a boy or girl, infant, toddler, preschooler or beyond…there’s something there for everyone.
There are over 200 children’s museums around the country. So, if you are traveling this summer, you should definitely find one near your destination and check it out! If you’re staying in town, or have guests coming in, consider bringing them to one of the top three children’s museum in the nation that’s right in your own backyard….the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. Here you’ll find children climbing, stacking blocks, making forts, painting, creating a work of art and doing what they do best….playing. Join them in their work when you’re here; you’ll be amazed at what you’ll learn!
