The San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum is kicking off 2024 with new board members, and plans for additional exhibits and expanded programs.
The Museum’s Exhibits Committee just saw the Amazing Airmaze exhibit completed, thanks to funding from the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust; the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County sponsored the revitalized Augmented Reality Sandbox; and the Hind, Sence and Schlinger Family Foundations funded The Adventure Playscape, found in the Museum’s backyard.
Exhibits currently in the planning stages include a laser exhibit, a LEGO App table, and a spinning sand table. Updates to the Mock Elevator and fire station are also in the works.
Special programs, which saw significant increases in attendance during 2023, will continue throughout this year. These include: Museums 4 All (discounted admission for EBT card holders), the City Play Program (for unhoused children and their families), Sensory Nights (free time for kiddos on the spectrum), and Moonlight Hours (free play once a month from 5-7pm). A unique new visitation program, with a goal to support local schools with k-3 grades, will be rolled out in Fall 2024.
Dozens of dedicated locals have served the Children’s Museum as board members over the years, steering it steadily through recessions, capital campaigns, growth and a pandemic. Most recently, the Board of Directors added five new members to its ranks and elected an executive team. Michael Morris, Candice Custodio, Madeline Kacsinta, Elizabeth Howard and Cody Dawson have been elected to three-year terms. Officers include Tyler Skinner (president), Allison Patrick (vice president), Michael Moresco (treasurer) and Sue Roberts (secretary). Returning directors include Annie Braff, Nikki Billinsley, Stephen Gonzales, Anthony Gomes and Claire Wexler.
The San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum inspires learning through play for children ages 2-10 and their families, and is located at 1010 Nipomo Street in downtown San Luis Obispo. Visit www.slocm.org for visitor and program information.