Partners

As partners aim to build a thoughtfully designed children’s museum along Omaha’s RiverFront, they are focused on these six goals based on best practices in early childhood development that can inspire extraordinary experiences.

Welcome

Intentionally designed spaces and exhibits for children and caregivers of varied physical and intellectual abilities, developmental stages, and cultural backgrounds.
Connect

Inclusive, intergenerational opportunities for all children and caregivers to deepen their connections and reciprocal learning through the universal language of play.
Challenge

Encouragement of risk-taking, choice, and exploration within a safe environment that nurtures essential skills including confidence, resilience, and problem-solving.
Surprise

Varied exhibit pathways that delight visitors, as unexpected events and outcomes spur powerful learning moments.
Recharge

“Off-ramps” where visitors retreat, relax, and engage in quiet play to support self-regulation and healthy social and emotional development.
Inspire

Lasting memories, skill-building, and community outreach that extend the museum’s influence beyond its walls, reinforcing and expanding visitor learning.

Advisory Group Partners

Dr. William P. Austin

Associate Professor, Teacher Education, University of Nebraska Omaha
Donna Dobson

Executive Director of Elementary Education, Omaha Public Schools
Dr. Walter Gilliam

Executive Director, Buffett Early Childhood Institute
Dr. Károly Mirinics

Director, Munroe-Meyer Institute; Hattie B. Munroe Professor of Psychiatry, Pharmacology, and Experimental Neuroscience, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, UNMC
Dr. Abbie Raikes

Associate Professor & Director of Global Early Childhood Development, UNMC
Silva Raker

Museum Executive
Jessie Rasmussen

President, Buffett Early Childhood Fund
Linda Reddish

Extension Educator, Nebraska Extension