Spring will arrive early. The good news came not from a groundhog or a meteorologist, but from Tracy Kay, Executive Director of the Westchester Children’s Museum. This week he took us on a preview tour of the 6,000 square feet of exhibit and program space that is set to open by the end of February.

 

 

By Robin Jovanovich

Spring will arrive early. The good news came not from a groundhog or a meteorologist, but from Tracy Kay, Executive Director of the Westchester Children’s Museum. This week he took us on a preview tour of the 6,000 square feet of exhibit and program space that is set to open by the end of February.

In that light-filled space overlooking the Playland Boardwalk, there will be waves to crawl over and an Automotive Gallery in the Toddler Zone; KEVA planks aplenty with which to design your own tower or dream house; a Maker studio in which to take part in any number of STREAM activities  — the Museum has added an “R” to the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) movement because they partner with Columbus Elementary School in New Rochelle, which feels Reading is the foundation of education; a gallery to build your own roller coaster; a Take and Leave Library; and a spacious multipurpose room at the very end that can be rented for birthday parties and special occasions.

“With this space,” said Kay, “we have completed Phase 1 of a very long journey. Our next goal is incorporating a climbing feature.” Pointing to the large interior space, he added, “We’re open but still growing.”

As we perused each corner and future display, Kay said, “We have lots of ‘sprinkles,’ lots of little elements.” And the Museum will have lots of rotating exhibits to stir young minds — magnetism, circuit building, arts & crafts, among them.

For a schedule of openings and exhibits and what’s ahead, visit discoverwcm.org.