Contributing to a stronger regional center
A regional resource, the Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota is grounded in the people, places and stories of Southern Minnesota. Children and adults explore the prairies, quarries, rivers, forests and farm lands that shape and characterize the region. A regional children's museum will be a strong partner in securing the Greater Mankato area's position as a regional center for higher education, retail, industry and healthcare services in its:
- Support for Greater Mankato Growth, Inc.'s mission of existing to support and promote the economic growth and vitality of our members and the regional marketplace;
- Alignment with Envision 2020's themes strongly supporting four themes in particular: as an Art and Cultural Center, Downtown Renaissance, and Quality, Affordable and Accessible Education, and a Regional Identity and Voice;
- Attraction to families from surrounding communities, just as the Mankato area now draws workers for jobs, education entertainment and medical facilities;
- Contributing vitality to a regional center in a location which serves as a modern town square where families play and learn together;
- Anticipated growth of population in the area highlights need for serving more children;
- Contribute to the quality of life many companies are looking for in new locations to do business;
- Support Mankato and North Mankato who have been named one of the nation's 100 Best Communities for Young People for the 3rd year in a row.
"Some people talk about play as if it were a relief from serious learning, or
even worse, a waste of time. But for children, play is exceedingly
serious…
and important! In fact, play is a way for children to learn who they are, how
the world works, solve problems and express feelings. Yes, play is the real
work of childhood, and for youg people today, many children's museums offer
play experiences that other settings are not able to give them."
- Fred Rogers, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood