The case for a public children’s museum in Detroit
The city of Detroit does not have a public-facing children’s museum.
Yes, you read that correctly. Detroit does not have a public-facing children’s museum.
Now it does have a children’s museum, however, that museum is closed to the public and only accessible by Detroit Public School Community District students.
It’s time we change that.
Museums and libraries are what sociologists refer to as ‘third places.’ Third places are spaces that we spend time outside of our homes, school, and/or workplaces to exchange ideas, build relationships, and have a good time.
Detroit is running out of third places. Several recreation centers and libraries were closed during the bankruptcy and our inaccessible to many. Many third places assess a ‘cover charge’ (cafes, coffee houses, coworking spaces, etc) for entry.
If Detroit loses third places for children, what does that say about us?
According to the Association of Children’s Museums,“children’s museums are places where children learn through play and exploration in environments designed just for them. Reflecting their diverse communities, children’s museums create playful, interactive learning experiences. In an increasingly complex world, children’s museums provide a…
