All Aboard the DCM Express

Now boarding the DCM Express! DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM) has created a mini pop-up experience featuring trains that will be stationed in the Museum for a limited time only. DCM Express is open now through June 14 with a special Train Day celebration taking place on Saturday, May 12 – Sunday, May 13.

It’s no secret that kids love trains. But what may not be as visible are the vast learning opportunities that take place within train play. Problem solving, creativity, imagination, spatial reasoning, fine motor skills, dexterity, and communication skills can all be practiced while playing with trains. “An open play environment like DCM Express is where social skills are really galvanized. Children are learning about sharing, working together, negotiating, and conflict resolution - valuable lessons that help us negotiate the world we live in,” said Thomas Sullivan, Director of Education and Programs, DuPage Children’s Museum.

Caregivers can play a significant role in supporting the learning benefits of train play. “Take some time to observe your child. You might be amazed by what they are capable of, what they know, what they want to know more about, and from that, where you can support their learning,” explained Alix Tonsgard, Early Learning Specialist, DuPage Children’s Museum. Another way to support a child’s learning is to ask questions. Simple prompts can expand the learning experience. Caregivers can try questions like the following: What would happen if…? Where is your train going? What could you do differently?

Join DCM for a special Train Day Celebration on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13. In addition to visiting the DCM Express, children can get an up-close look at a model train. Scouts from Venture Crew 57 will be on-site to show off their impressive model train and answer questions. Young train enthusiasts can also create art with ink pads and train wheels, enjoy special additions to existing exhibits including Zip Tracks and train cars in Ramps & Rollers, as well as Bricks & Wheels in Unit Blocks. Train-themed story time will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m on Saturday and at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Catch the train before it leaves the station!

Admission to DuPage Children's Museum is $12 for adults and children age 1 and older, and $10 for seniors; it's free for members and children less than one year. Check DCM’s website for more information at www.dupagechildrens.org and follow DCM on Facebook and Twitter.

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About DuPage Children’s Museum

The Museum helps develop curiosity, creativity, thinking, and problem solving in young children through its mission: “DuPage Children’s Museum ignites the potential of all children to learn through hands-on exploration by integrating art, math, and science.” Interactive exhibits and programs make learning fun for children and adults playing together. DCM serves over 300,000 visitors annually representing all 50 states and 575 zip codes in Illinois. DCM’s reach and support represent well beyond the Chicagoland area. The Museum’s impact extends across cultural, financial, and educational boundaries. It touches the lives of children from all regions, providing the building blocks for success in school and life. The Museum is located at 301 N. Washington Street in Naperville, www.dupagechildrens.org or call (630) 637-8000.