Educational Initiatives
The Iowa Children’s Museum is committed to advancing five different educational initiatives with active learning experiences in our exhibits and programs.
STEM
To address the rapidly changing world in which we live, it is imperative that children become flexible thinkers and creative problem solvers to be STEM literate. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math active learning experiences set in a real-world context and presented with problem-solving challenges nurture deep understandings about how the world works.
STEM initiatives are made possible by support from Collins Aerospace.
School Readiness
Play experiences, both child-directed and guided, help to build the skills necessary for a smooth transition into Kindergarten and academic success throughout the school years. Our School Readiness Initiative builds the following skill sets: Conceptual Thinking, Language, Spatial Awareness, Self-Regulation, Creative & Flexible Thinking, Social Skills, Number Knowledge, and Healthy Bodies.
Financial Literacy
Financial literacy learning experiences focus on empowering children with the knowledge and skills needed to create viable economic futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Financial literacy initiatives are made possible by support from GreenState Credit Union.
Arts & Culture
Special programs and exhibits in the areas of music, dance, art, drama, and culture help children develop an appreciation for and understanding of today’s global world. Creating art allows children to express themselves and helps develop fine motor, emotional, and problem-solving skills. Creativity and flexible thinking are crucial for innovation and are important 21st century skills.
Healthy Kids
Youth are learning at an early age that making healthy choices when it comes to fitness and nutrition has a positive impact on their lives. Play benefits the body in many ways. Engaging in play reduces the risk of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, asthma, depression and other serious health problems. Physical play also helps children develop control over their muscles.
