Brooklyn Children's Museum

07/09/04

A remarkable example of a premier institution that practices what it preaches.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Scene
Founded in 1889, BCM is the oldest children's museum in the world. But its historical noteworthiness is merely the tip of the iceberg. The museum boasts a computer-equipped library, three theaters, weekend workshops, internships, mentoring and scientists- and artists-in-residence programs.

The Collection
Fueled by a belief that kids learn differently than adults, BCM's founders and current curators have consistently designed multicultural, vibrant, hands-on exhibits that allow participants to ask questions and explore feelings as part of the experience--now sometimes through interactive videos. More traditional exhibitions involve animals, nature, artifacts and musical instruments; the most popular ones are the mock pizza parlor, the moviemaking studio and an early-learning center for toddlers.