smithsonian opens wegmans wonderplace for young historianssmithsonian historians
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History today opens “Wegmans Wonderplace,†the first gallery on the National Mall designed for the learning needs of children from infancy to age 6.Opening festivities include a children’s parade through the building led by members of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and a paper-chain ribbon-cutting with Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton. Special activities Dec. 9 between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. include a meet and greet with “Walkaround Elmo†fromMade possible by a $1.5 million gift and in-kind donations from Wegmans Food Markets, this gallery will allow curious kids to “cook†in a kitchen inspired by Julia Child’s; plant and harvest pretend vegetables and run the farm stand; find the owls hiding in a miniature replica of the Smithsonian’s Castle building; and captain a tugboat based on a model in the museum“Wonderplace,†a 1,700-square-foot children’s center, will provide the youngest historians with age-appropriate activities and experiences over the next 20 years. The early learning gallery completes the museum’s 45,000-square-foot Innovation Wing, which features 12 exhibitions, learning spaces and program places all centered on the themes of invention, creativity a“Wegmans’ mission is to help our customers live healthier, better lives, and that begins with children,†said Wegmans CEO Danny Wegman. “Having fun through play is the best way to inspire children to learn.†According to the company, the opening of ‘Wegmans Wonderplace’ at the end of this year will also help to usher in Wegmans’ 100th Anniversary in 2016.“Wegmans Wonderplace†will feature six sections each with hands-on, play-based interdisciplinary activities. The sections include: the Farm, the Kitchen, the Port, the Construction Site, the Gallery and the Smithsonian Castle. Each area combines artifact displays with fun hands-on activities to engage young children and their families. Activities such as the 12 differenSI-298A-2015.The museum is located on Constitution Avenue, between 12th and 14th Streets N.W., and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is free. For Smithsonian information, the public may call (202) 633-1000.(202) 309-2152Smithsonian Opens Wegmans Wonderplace for Young Historians | Smithsonian Institution, music and dancing with Coach, Williebob and Boogie Bennie of the ever popular band Rocknoceros