Did you know that children’s museums are the youngest and fastest growing museums in the country?

• The number of children’s museums has more than doubled since 1978.

• 60 children’s museums are currently undergoing building or expansion projects in the United States alone.
• More than 30 million individuals around the world visit children’s museums annually.
• When it opens in 2009, The Delaware Children’s Museum expects an average of over 135,000 visitors each year.
• Child Magazine lists children’s museums as “the hottest spots for learning and fun.”

Did you know that children’s museums serve as “town squares” and build social capital?

• Programs that benefit children motivate community involvement.
• When children play in a children’s museum, objective and quantifiable learning takes place.
• Children’s museums have the unique position to make a real difference towards reversing feelings of stigma and discrimination.
• 69% of children’s museums are located in urban areas.
• Children’s museums deliberately and thoughtfully welcome community participation in the museum experience.

Did you know that children’s museums complement and supplement traditional educational resources?

• Children’s museums light a creative spark for discovery and lifelong learning.
• The Delaware Children’s Museum’s exhibits will complement state educational curriculum standards.
• The Delaware Children’s Museum currently offers a school outreach program: The Earth Balloon.
• 65% of Association of Children’s Museum member museums have a dedicated early childhood exhibit space; 47% provide school outreach; 41% develop curriculum materials; and 34% run after-school programs. The Delaware Children’s Museum has plans to provide all of the above services.

Did you know that children’s museums contribute to local economies?

• Non-profit arts institutions and museums are a cornerstone of tourism.
• More than 30% of children’s museums are part of a downtown revitalization project.
• Many city planners regard children’s museums as an anchor for nearby attractions, restaurants and local businesses.
• The total economic activity of Association of Children’s Museum members is $448 million, with total spending by museums at $291 million and total spending by museum audiences at $157 million.

What have they figured out that Delaware hasn't