By Marissa Willman
Families, rejoice: The Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert (CDMoD) officially reopened its doors Memorial Day weekend after being closed for four years. With nearly 40 new exhibits designed for children ages 0 to 8, CDMoD is ready to welcome families for hands-on play and learning through exploration.
“I’m really excited to welcome our families back,” says Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert CEO Cindy Burreson. “I cry every day right now as they’re installing exhibits, because everything is coming to life. The museum evokes a sense of joy, and it feels so welcoming.”
CDMoD’s exhibits are offered in six themed areas: Imagine, Express, Move, Experiment, Explore, and Dream. The exhibits were created by Hands On! Studios, the designers behind the museum’s original exhibits.
”It’s really a magical place,” Burreson says. “And it’s so impactful. For my own family, [CDMoD] created so many core memories and learning opportunities, and that’s what I want to every family to experience.”
May’s opening is considered a soft opening, as some specialty exhibits for toddlers and sensory-friendly areas will not be fully installed until June. These areas are expected to open to the public on July 1. A grand opening celebration, complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, is planned for early Fall once all exhibits are operational.
Starting June 10, CDMoD will also offer summer camps for children ages 5-10. These nine-week camps will offer themed activities such as Jurassic Journey, Superhero Academy, Ocean Adventures, and Artventure Quest. Camps run Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.
Families can consider memberships to the museum, which are offered in a number of flexible packages. Membership prices start at $115 for one adult and one child. Benefits include unlimited admission for a year, access to members-only events, and discounts in the gift shop. Additionally, members receive complimentary guest passes and early registration for select events.
In a significant step towards inclusivity, the museum has been certified as an Autism Center. Staff have completed Sensory Sensitivity Awareness training, and the museum will provide resources such as Sensory Bags and Sensory Guides. A “Calm Space” will open July 1 for families needing a quiet area.
“This is one of the things I’m most proud of,” Burreson says. “All of our staff has taken sensory awareness training. We have a sensory room, calm space, sensory bags, sensory guides, and a lot of adaptive experiences. We want every kid to have the resources they need to have a great time.”
The museum is still actively fundraising to support its long-term goals, which include renovating all three existing buildings, expanding its facilities, and enhancing outdoor areas. Volunteers, aged 12 and up, are also needed to assist with family interactions, summer camps, and other activities. To learn more and stay up to date on volunteer opportunities, sign up for the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert newsletter at cdmod.org.
For more information on how to support the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert or to purchase your membership, visit cdmod.org.
