
We provide a unique hands-on environment where children explore, investigate, create, and discover.
Now more than ever the formation of a child’s academic, social, and problem-solving skills are critical for lifetime success. We know with the help of advancements made in pediatric neuroscience the conditions necessary for building a better brain. Beginning with a tiny spark in infancy, a child’s brain develops through experience and direct interaction with her environment; in a word, through play. The Galveston Children’s Museum’s mission is to fuel that spark, to respect each child’s unique identity and give them permission to be playful, curious, creative, inspired, and inspiring; people who have the ability to think outside the box, and know they can meet challenges and overcome them.
We believe in the value of play.
We believe that play is the work of children, and using imagination is how children learn new concepts, how to problem solve, and the rules and properties of the world around them. We believe children need the opportunity to move freely, to manipulate materials, and to interact using all their senses in order to make a solid and lasting impression.
Science has proven that unrestricted play is how children form their important brain functions, such as executive function, spatial awareness, and moral judgment. We value this information and put it into daily practice as we facilitate this development.
We are passionate about providing children from all backgrounds the opportunity to gain through play what they are lacking in our modern world, traditional school, and the limitations of their environment. We are accessible, through our “Everybody Plays” program, to underprivileged populations, by charging $1 admission to families on SNAP or Medicaid. We welcome and are accessible to children in wheelchairs and special needs children; our museum is beneficial to these children because of the space to move around and the ability to guide their own play. The museum is truly a place where “Everybody Plays.”
Board of Directors
President: Brian Massey
Treasurer: Cody Wright
Secretary: Andrew Leslie
Shannon Caldwell
Catherine Chaffee
Cora Harper