The Brooklyn Children's Museum, located in East New York, Brooklyn, holds the distinction of being the world's first children's museum, having opened its doors in 1899. This pioneering institution was designed to cater to the educational and recreational needs of children, a novel concept at the time.
One unique aspect of the museum is its focus on hands-on learning experiences. The museum was initially housed in the Adams House, a Victorian mansion, before moving to its current location in Crown Heights in 1977. The new building, designed by Hardy Holzman Pfeiffer Associates, was specifically created to accommodate the museum's innovative exhibits and programs.
The museum's collection includes over 30,000 cultural artifacts and natural specimens. Among its notable items are a sizable collection of toy trains, a diorama of Brooklyn in the 19th century, and an Egyptian mummy. The museum also houses the original Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibit "America to Zanzibar," which explores Muslim cultures around the world.
The museum's rooftop garden, known as the Greenhouse, is an interactive exhibit that teaches children about urban farming and sustainability. It features a variety of plants and offers workshops on topics like composting and renewable energy. The garden is part of the museum's commitment to environmental education.
One lesser-known fact is that the Brooklyn Children's Museum is also home to the World Brooklyn exhibit, which replicates various Brooklyn neighborhoods and businesses, allowing children to role-play and learn about different cultures. This exhibit includes a Caribbean bakery, a Mexican grocery store, and a Chinese stationery shop, among others.
Another trivia is the museum's Sensory Room, designed for children with autism and other sensory processing disorders. This room provides a calm and controlled environment with soft lighting, tactile exhibits, and quiet corners, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.
The museum's educational programs extend beyond its physical space. The Museum on the Move initiative brings mobile exhibits and workshops to schools and community centers throughout Brooklyn. This program aims to reach underserved communities and provide access to the museum's resources.
In 2008, the museum underwent a significant expansion, adding a new wing and doubling its size. This expansion included the addition of the Neighborhood Nature exhibit, which focuses on the flora and fauna of Brooklyn. It features live animals, interactive displays, and educational programs about local ecosystems.
The museum also places a strong emphasis on cultural programming. It hosts annual festivals celebrating various cultures, such as the Chinese New Year and Diwali. These events include traditional music, dance, crafts, and food, allowing children to explore and appreciate diverse traditions.
Overall, the Brooklyn Children's Museum remains a vital educational and cultural institution in Brooklyn, continuing to innovate and adapt to meet the needs of its young visitors.