18 | EXPLORE WINTER 2023 A Revamped Space for Early Learners New Smead Discovery Center—Presented by PNC Offers Enriching Hands-On Experiences As the Cleveland Museum of Natural History continues its transformation, new approaches to educational programming will complement its physical reinvention. These approaches reflect the Museum’s commitment to offering accessible, dynamic, and fun experiences to all its audiences, including its youngest visitors. The new Museum will play a pivotal role in building science literacy, inspiring a passion for the natural world that sets the stage for lifelong learning. Fortunately, like-minded organizations in the community are eager to lend their support. The Museum was recently awarded a $120,000 grant from the PNC Foundation, which focuses on early-childhood education and community and economic development. This three-year grant has supported the reimagining of Smead Discovery Center, the Museum’s hands-on learning center for young children. “Educational programs like those offered in Smead Discovery Center are vital for keeping children engaged and learning year-round,” says Pat Pastore, PNC Regional President for Cleveland. “Soon, the Museum will become an even more inviting learning space that attracts more visitors and provides an economic benefit to the city through jobs and increased tourism. Most important, the Museum has continued to prioritize educational programs at a time when children need them most.” The new Smead Discovery Center—Presented by PNC, which opened to the public on December 7, primarily serves children ages 7 and younger, including babies and toddlers. Providing accessible activities for all styles of learners, the space encourages exploration and discovery through play. Over the next three years, Museum educators will craft and deliver new programming built around rotating themes. These programs will feature handson learning stations that engage young visitors in the wonders of science and nature. Children will leave the Discovery Center curious and inspired, seeing the world around them as a playground of infinite possibility. Dedication of Smead Discovery Center—Presented by PNC
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