Minnesota children's museum in ST. Paul will reinvigorate its family learning programs, which were eliminated during the covid-19 pandemic

The Minnesota Children's Museum in St. Paul, Minnesota will receive $139,150 from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the National Leadership Grants program (CFDA 45.312) to reinvigorate family learning programs eliminated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum will provide free or discounted admission and access to programs supporting lower-income families in raising thriving children. Programs will include free family nights, workshops on playful learning, and free play kits distributed through community partners to families in need. A new Partner Engagement Manager will develop and deepen community alliances to reach more parents. Funding will ensure access for lower-income families and support the role of play in children's growth, learning, and community recovery post-pandemic.

The programs will support lower income families in raising thriving children by providing free or discounted admission. The museum will work with community partners and public schools to ensure access for as many families as possible. Programs will include free family nights, workshops to support playful learning, and free play kits distributed through partners to families in need. The museum also will hire a new partner engagement manager to develop and deepen community alliances and reach more parents. By reactivating these programs, the museum will ensure access for lower-income families and provide support for the role of play in children's growth and learning as well as community recovery and healing.