BIG Science for Little Sprouts

Grow with us at MODS.

At the Museum of Discovery and Science, we are curiosity cultivators for future scientists and engineers! Early childhood at MODS is driven by one guiding principle: children are born curious. Our mission here at MODS, connecting people to inspiring science, supports that curiosity. We evoke moments of wonder. We inspire a passion for exploration. We transform curiosity into scientific inquiry. We ignite the insatiable need to learn more because that’s where true discovery lives.

MODS has developed something BIG for our community’s littlest scientists ages 0–6, and visitors can expect a sensory rich play environment that will enhance the connection between children and caregivers. We are pushing the boundaries of toddler creativity and exploring projects that are not easily replicated at home around the kitchen table. The brand new Sprouting STEM Learning Lab is an immersive, exploratory and interactive early childhood space where asking questions and trying new things are applauded. MODS delivers a STEM-focused program with activities and live animal encounters facilitated by the Museum’s expert early childhood educators. Through Sprouting STEM, MODS infuses a passion for science in little learners.

The space features an inviting, oversized and fantastical version of a lush, nature-filled Florida backyard complete with native plants and wildlife. This is an innovative, safe place for learning and was strategically designed to inspire imaginations.

There is an exciting and powerful link between STEM and early childhood learning. We know from research that foundational science literacy is linked to essential skills development in young children, including the ability to read and write. STEM exposure in early childhood helps kids learn how to predict, understand cause and effect, comprehend sequence and build a rich vocabulary. It’s also incredibly fun and messy!

Our Sprouting STEM Learning Lab is powered by PNC Grow Up Great®. Since 2004, the PNC Grow Up Great program has been helping children from birth through age 5 develop a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime. The Sprouting STEM classroom will be MODS’ early childhood headquarters for our onsite programming, and it also is designed to support mobile outreach and professional development for educators. The Museum’s commitment to early childhood outreach is a deeply-rooted pillar in our heritage, and MODS believes every young child should have equal access to high-quality science learning.

We are prototyping a new aspirational space to complement the Sprouting STEM Learning Lab. Explorers can look forward to The Discovery Spot, currently The Discovery Center. The brand new exhibit for young learners will feature sections such as Everglades, Ocean to Air and a re-envisioned Citrus Grove.

MODS’ programming has continued to empower children from preschool to career for more than four decades. Join us as we evolve, create and invent for the next 40 years.