Imagine Children’s Museum, located in Everett, Washington, has recently been awarded a prestigious Museums for America grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This grant, totaling $250,000 over three years, will be used to enhance their Little Science Lab program, an initiative aimed at sparking young minds through playful learning and hands-on science and math experiences.
The Little Science Lab program is a weekly 30-minute interactive session that is free to attend. It has quickly become a cornerstone in Imagine Children’s Museum’s commitment to early childhood education. Facilitated by Imagine educators, these sessions take place at public libraries, community centers, and preschools, providing children with engaging, hands-on activities that promote foundational science and math skills. To ensure inclusivity, sessions may also be bilingual, incorporating Spanish-language resources and the assistance of community partner translators.
Elizabeth (Elee) Wood, PhD, Chief Executive Officer at Imagine Children’s Museum, expressed her excitement about expanding the Little Science Lab program to more communities. She emphasized the importance of introducing young children to science concepts early on, as research has shown that they have a high capacity to learn and explore. By nurturing their curiosity and providing opportunities for discovery, children are more likely to succeed in their academic endeavors.
The grant will enable Imagine Children’s Museum to hire a dedicated staff member who will focus on advancing community partnerships, expanding program delivery sites, and deepening the impact of early science and math learning. This staff member will work closely with partners to identify and address the specific needs of underserved communities, ensuring that access to quality early learning opportunities is more equitable.
Recent data has highlighted the need for such programs in Washington State, where many children lack sufficient math and science skills upon entering kindergarten. This deficiency persists as students progress through school, underscoring the importance of early intervention and support. The Little Science Lab program aims to bridge this gap by providing engaging resources, training for teachers, and family engagement activities.
In addition to expanding the program, Imagine Children’s Museum will host monthly Family Math Nights to engage families in fun, educational activities. These events will further support the development of early math and science skills, creating a positive and supportive learning environment for children and their families.
As one of only two institutions in Washington state to receive the Museums for America grant, Imagine Children’s Museum is dedicated to leveraging this funding to enhance their community impact and provide children, families, and teachers with the tools they need to succeed. By collaborating with their partners, they aim to make significant strides in early childhood education and lay a strong foundation for future learning.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) recognizes the vital role that museums and libraries play in communities across the United States. Through grants like Museums for America, IMLS supports institutions in their efforts to educate, engage, and enrich the public. Imagine Children’s Museum is proud to be a recipient of this grant and looks forward to continuing their mission of inspiring young minds through interactive and educational programs.