Erica Sunde and her nearly two-year-old daughter Sloane received a museum membership as a gift about a year ago. It’s been a gift that keeps on giving as it has provided this dynamic duo with unlimited fun for a whole year.

Erica and Sloane are an active pair. They love to get out and about and find fun things to do around the Twin Cities. A trip to Minnesota Children’s Museum is on their rotation of places to go to explore, have fun and make memories together.

“I love it in general” says Erica. “The remodel is incredible! I love the traveling exhibits, the new cafe space is lovely and we have a new, different experience every time we visit.”

Great Spaces for Tots 

Erica loves that the museum has separate place spaces for younger children. Sloane loves to explore and try new things at the museum, and the spots for tots allow her to have space specifically for kids her age.

Sloane’s favorite space? Sprouts, an exhibit designed for kids three-years-old and younger. The exhibit has tiny drawers and doors to investigate, toddler-sized ramps, stairs and a slide to conquer, and plenty of water play to keep young kids busy. “She could play at the water table all day,” says Erica.

Sloane also loved Daniel Tiger: A Grr-ific Exhibit, a traveling exhibit that was here in Winter 2018. “She loved the Trolley,” says Erica.

The Importance of Play 

Erica has worked as a preschool teacher and as a nanny in both Omaha and Minneapolis. She not only takes Sloane to the museum, but sometimes brings the kids she cares for as well. She knows how vital it is for kids to have the space and freedom to play.

“Play is so important,” says Erica. “Play will shape and mold any child. It promotes social and emotional skills and makes a difference in how children respond to things.”

We’re so thankful that Erica and Sloane were gifted a membership! We’re thrilled to have them as part of our museum family and can’t wait to see what new things Sloane will try next.

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for a special family in your life? Give the gift of play with an annual membership to the museum. Go to mcm.org/gift