Children’s Museum of Sonoma County Opening Soon

Marin Mommies presents a guest article from Marin mom Michelle Carpenter, who recently had a chance to get a sneak peek at the soon-to-open Children's Museum of Sonoma County in Santa Rosa.

I came away giddy from a “sneak peek” at Children's Museum of Sonoma County, which is in the final stages of construction on Phase I and on schedule to be open March 29 on weekends only through end of May. In June, it will open six days a week.

I couldn’t believe that this Marin parent of five, who works in the science industry, and who is on a constant quest for learning opportunities as well as birthday sites had heard nothing about this fabulous endeavor. We are all in for a treat!

Despite being on a tour, I found myself playing in Mary’s Garden, which is approximately one acre of fascinating and handicap accessible outdoor exhibitions. My mind and body jumped (literally) from the springy colorful safety surface area underneath Ms. Caterpillar, to the solar operated butterflies, the life size chrysalis, and the outdoor water play tables engineered for plenty of constructive play. The weather was beautiful and I could imagine the kids playing in the water exhibits and rolling down the small hills with wavy grass.

When Phase II of construction is completed later on this year, an additional 3,000 square foot of interior space will include a Science and Imagination Gallery and TOTtopia Toddler Gallery. The Science and Imagination Gallery is planned to include a science and health laboratory, a diner/kitchen, and a large crocodile who “forgot to brush its teeth”, among the many science-based exhibits. TOTtopia will include a reading area, a sensory and manipulative play area, and an enchanted storybook cottage.

And to top it all off, there is a terrific 1,000 square foot Art Studio and Event Center for creative play and birthdays located in the garden area. The roof is designed to collect rainwater to provide a real-life demonstration of conservation and the large window serves as an artist’s canvas while looking out onto Mary’s Garden.

The museum has clearly been a labor of love for many individuals as well as the community. Collette Michaud, the CEO and Founder of the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is a former educational software game designer at two of George Lucas’ companies, who has been working to create the museum with the support of the others (including a $1.8MM grant from the State of California) since 2005.

The Children’s Museum is located right next door to the Charles M.Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, which many of us have visited for birthday parties and weekend events (love that counter commute!). The museum is geared towards children of all ages, and is pleased to be one of the few museums for children ages ten and younger.

For more information on the Museum, including how to make birthday reservations during the summer months, please see the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County’s website at www.cmosc.org, email curious info@cmosc.org or call (707) 546-4069.

Over $7.5MM has been raised towards an $8.3 million goal. The museum welcomes additional donations to add to the excitement and learning. Many exhibits are still available for sponsorship, such as the 17-foot tall partially donated windmill, which will eventually demonstrate wind-generated electricity and personalized bug plaques.

I will continue to take pictures as the grounds are finished and make sure you are aware of the specific date for the grand opening. In the meantime, mark your calendars!