“The mission of Tulsa Children’s Museum is to inspire children, connect families, and build community through exploration, exhibits, programming, and PLAY.”

Founded 2007 Opened Discovery Lab in Owen Park in 2013 In just two years: over 270,000 children and families impacted through exhibits and unique hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and health and wellness programming; and delivered 1,800 sessions of outreach programming in area schools and libraries PLAY BEGINS

Experiential, open-ended learning opportunities through “meaningful” play provides cognitive, emotional, social, and physical benefits Research ties this type of play to reading readiness and school success Informal learning complements and supplements school curricula blending the arts with science and math for a cohesive experience PLAY MATTERS

25% of field trips and 40% of outreach programming delivered free or at a reduced rate for at-risk and underserved children and families of Title I schools Children of all ages, abilities, and economics are engaged and intrigued by the hands-on experiences Serves as a unique community hub, enhancing the quality of life for its clients while making a direct economic impact in Tulsa PLAY BUILDS

Earns around 50% of operating revenue through earned income lessening the reliance on contributing resources More than 350 discovery centers and children’s museums operate worldwide, and see 30 million with an economic impact of more than $448 million annually (Association of Children’s Museums) Trips for cultural tourism account for 23% of domestic trips. These visitors stay 53% longer in a destination and spend roughly 36% more money than other tourists (American Alliance of Museums) TCM will enhance the quality of life of Tulsa area families and provide a regional and national draw to the area for tourists and businesses alike PLAY SUSTAINS

Growth is methodic, reflective, and responsive to ensure sustainability, community input, and positive impact The current phase—Discovery Lab at Owen Park— Builds trust, awareness, and participation Develops community connections and partnerships Creates meaningful and relevant educational exhibits and programs Feasibility studies and current Discovery Lab performance indicate that Tulsa can accommodate a 40,000 square foot children’s museum / science center 210,000 visitors a year Cost $30 million PLAY GROWS