Museum, KYE-YAC to unveil newest early childhood learning space
Mid-America Science Museum’s newest early childhood learning space will be unveiled on Sept. 5 during a special reveal ceremony.
The new gallery space will officially open to the public with a ribbon cutting at the museum at 11 a.m. Admission to the museum will be free to all guests from 9-11 a.m., courtesy of KYE-YAC.
Called the KYE-YAC CLUBHOUSE, this new gallery space is named for KYE-YAC International, a philanthropic group founded by Kye Masino based on the principle of kids helping kids.
Masino and his foundation are members of Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots program. Together they seek to foster respect and compassion for all living things, to promote understanding of all cultures and beliefs, and to inspire each individual to take action to make the world a better place for people, other animals, and the environment, a news release said. The KYE-YAC CLUBHOUSE, created to extend KYE-YAC International’s goal of empowering kids to help other kids protect their environment and the plants and animals within it, enhances the museum’s mission of youth developing a lifelong interest in science.
“We are excited about creating a permanent exhibit for early childhood education. The KYEYAC CLUBHOUSE is designed to inspire youth and engage them in science through exploration, investigation, play, and books,” said Masino. “It is our desire to inspire preschool children to have compassion for the earth and the life that inhabits it.”
Designed specifically for encouraging preschool-aged children to meaningfully examine and experience the everyday world around them, the KYE-YAC CLUBHOUSE presents innovative learning opportunities in a safe environment. The focal point of the new exhibit is a unique treehouse that toddlers can climb and explore.
An original wall mural depicting a tree with three-dimensional leaves surrounded by native animals and birds adds visual stimulation that further sparks the curiosity of young guests. Age-appropriate books foster literacy-based science learning and interaction between child and caregiver. Located next to the museum’s two-story water exhibit, the sound of rushing water amplifies the nature theme.
Refreshments will be served following the grand opening. Guests are welcome to enjoy the first event at the KYE-YAC CLUBHOUSE, the kickoff of Scientots, the museum’s science and literacy-based weekly class for preschoolers and their caregivers reading-time activity. The program will feature “The Watcher,” a book about Goodall’s fascinating life, from childhood to her life long dedication as an animal lover and protector, the release said.