About

Our mission is to inspire all children to wonder and explore their world through play and innovative, hands-on learning experiences.

The Museum features interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs that promote school readiness, including the development of early literacy, beginning math and science concepts, and problem-solving, physical and social skills. For caregivers, the Museum provides important information on early childhood brain development, learning styles and effective parenting skills. The organization is committed to ensuring access by all children and families, offering outreach programs that serve marginalized children and families, including low-income and those with disabilities.

History

The Betty Brinn Children’s Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that opened its doors in 1995 thanks to a grassroots effort begun by Therese Binder, Susie Gruenberg and Julie Sattler-Rosene, who were determined to create a place where families in southeastern Wisconsin could learn and play together. Since our founding in 1995, the Museum has welcomed more than 4.7 million children and families to our exhibits, programs and experiences.

About Betty Brinn

The Museum’s namesake, Betty Brinn, was a Milwaukee resident who dedicated her life to securing healthcare for underprivileged women and children. The Museum carries on her legacy by creating a community gathering place that offers programming and experiences where children and families of all cultures, abilities and socioeconomic statuses belong—where they feel welcomed to learn and play together in a space that is specially designed for them.

Our Impact

Research has proven the critical importance of providing positive, engaging experiences for our children during their earliest years. In fact, 90% of brain development happens before the age of five and one of the most important ways young children learn is through play (American Academy Journal of Pediatrics). Children’s museums such as the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, support our littlest learners’ social, emotional, and academic growth, inspiring self-confidence and setting them up for a lifetime of success.