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Explore & More ... a children's museum exists to introduce all children and the adults who care about them to a lifetime of exploration and discovery through interactive exhibits and programs that encourage creativity, curiosity and imagination. |
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A children's museum is a very special place dedicated to educating young children through interactive exhibits. Children's museums are similar to other museums in that we provide educational opportunities, but rather than focus on one topic, we concentrate on our visitors - children. |
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Although we believe that play is an essential part of learning, we are not solely a play space. Throughout the museum you will find unique educational experiences for your children - experiences not found anywhere else in Western New York. |
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In the late 1980s, a play group met weekly, and a common topic of conversation was children's museums. Many of the members had visited children's museum across the nation and wanted one in Western New York. Starting a museum was an exciting challenge. And although they had no museum experience, no specialized education, no funding, they knew the possibilities. |
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By 1994, that group had expanded and included parents, educators and designers. Explore & More... a children's museum was a reality. The museum was an independent non-profit organization with a provisional charter from the New York State Board of Regents. And in June, 1994, Explore & More opened its doors for the first time. A new children's museum was born! |
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Explore & More was small, with simple exhibits. But we were a hit! |
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In 1997, the museum hired our first executive director. Within a few months, she expanded the museum dramatically. Outreach to children throughout the region was designed to complement new thematic exhibits. |
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Building Curiosity: Inside Architecture, Journey to Japan and Food For Thought eventually became the basis for many of the exhibits you see today. |
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And as more and more visitors came, we knew we needed a new location. After searching for two years, the museum opened our doors for the first time - again! In July 2000, Explore & More opened at The Park Associates, Inc. Corporate Campus, with three times as much exhibit space!
Since that day, Explore & More has continued to grow and make improvements and changes. We are thrilled to welcome you, and hope you have an exciting, fun, educational experience! |
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