The Children’s Discovery Museum continues to be a cornerstone of early education and family engagement in Kennebec County, offering enriching, hands-on learning experiences for children and their caregivers. Through a variety of innovative programs and partnerships, the Museum is helping build a strong foundation for educational success while fostering curiosity, creativity and connection.
At the heart of their efforts is a commitment to reducing barriers and increasing access. The Mobile Museum brings play-based, literacy-rich programming directly to schools, libraries, farmers markets and local events—ensuring that all children, regardless of location or resources, can benefit from educational opportunities. Programs like Story Walks make books and learning tools available in outdoor, accessible community settings.
Inside the Museum, exhibits and programming promote school readiness, social-emotional development, and whole-family engagement. The Museum has already created several reading nooks throughout its exhibit hall, offering children inviting spaces filled with a variety of books to foster a love of reading. From providing nutritious snacks during after-school and summer camps to hosting presenters from a wide range of career paths, the Museum supports both immediate and long-term educational growth.
Looking ahead, the Children’s Discovery Museum is planning additional features designed to deepen its educational impact. A proposed nature-based playground aims to encourage outdoor exploration and connection to the environment. While not a current priority, the Museum also hopes to train staff as mandated reporters as part of its long-term planning. Additionally, continued collaboration with schools and partners like Waterville Creates strengthens the alignment of local education initiatives and resources.
By providing engaging, inclusive and developmentally meaningful experiences, the Children’s Discovery Museum is helping ensure that every child in Kennebec County has the tools—and the joy—to learn and thrive.
