Our philosophy starts with the simple belief that kids are capable of incredible things. Our job is to nurture that ability; our goal is to support kids' healthy development. Play is how kids learn--here, it is in both a STEM-rich environment and inviting outdoor experience.
The early years are truly a special time. Not only do brain researchers tell us that an enormous amount of learning happens in the first five years of life, but I love how you can actually see this learning happening in the faces of young children. Giggles, wonderment, and puzzled expressions are all part of our early learning philosophy at the museum. As the Director of Early Childhood Education, I work to create new exhibit spaces, family programs, and community collaborations that inspire playful learning for our youngest visitors and their caregivers. We are here to learn and grow alongside visitors of all abilities and backgrounds, and it gives me great joy to help create an inclusive museum experience for all.
Recent posts by Alli Leake
Although the Discovery Museum is temporarily closed and so many things feel uncertain these days, I'd like to share with you a few things that I know for sure.
When Hillary Einboden visited the Discovery Museum for the first time, she knew she’d found a “unique and wonderful place"—a noteworthy observation coming from someone who spent a full year exploring wonderful places with her children.
More brain development happens before a child’s third birthday than at any other time in life. Between birth and age three, the brain grows from 25% to 80% of its adult size and forms one million new neural connections each second. If a baby’s... READ MORE
Hello! I’m new here, so I’d like to introduce myself. I’m Alli, the new Director of Early Childhood Education here at The Discovery Museums. This past Fall the Museums were very sad to say goodbye to Lucas, the previous Early Childhood Education... READ MORE