New Children’s Museum Heading Our Way

While most of us are gearing up for the early spring we’ve been promised, one eager community group has its sights set on the fall -- that’s when they’ll open the doors of the Bucks County Children’s Museum in New Hope.

“I am so excited to give this to the community, I just can’t wait,” said Kelly Krumenacker, the museum’s president and executive director. 

The museum will feature seven interactive exhibits designed for kids from preschool through 8 years old, promising hands-on play like digging for treasure, working on a farm and of course, getting wet. There will also be special programming including storytelling, crafts, music and entertainment.

“There will be something for everyone,” Krumenacker said. “We have a team of educators from across the region creating curriculum goals and objectives based on what children are learning in school, so each exhibit will engage kids in a meaningful way.”

Located in the former James A. Michener Art Museum satellite on Bridge Street, the museum will offer convenient on-site parking and affordable entry fees.

“It can be hard to get to other children’s museums with young kids. This museum will be close to home and something we can all be proud of,” Krumenacker said. “It will improve the quality of life for Bucks County residents with children.” 

In addition to its convenient location, what will set this museum apart from others in our area is its focus on Bucks County. 

“Not only will the museum be fun and interactive, it will reflect our community and educate kids and parents about Bucks County’s rich history,” Krumenacker said. “For example, they’ll learn about things like our covered bridges, and why we need to preserve them. They’ll see what’s grown here in our farms, and why we should buy local. ”

The name of the game at this museum will be “high touch,” not “high tech.” After being disappointed by broken technological exhibits on museum trips with her own family, Krumenacker concluded that this museum wouldn't rely heavily on technology.

“Kids just need opportunities for play,” she said. “At our museum, kids will be powering everything.”

Museum memberships will be available, offering reciprocity at over 100 other museums, including the Cherry Hill Discovery Center and the Please Touch Museum.

Krumenacker and her team invite Newtown residents to be a part of this special endeavor.

“We would really welcome support from Newtown,” said Krumenacker. “It’s going to take the entire Bucks County community to secure funding so we can get started. We’re just about there, so anything people can do would be great.”

To learn more and find out how you can get involved, visit Buckskids.org.