I don't have any specific data on this subject, but I am a big supporter
for the inclusion of children in visiting museums.  I feel that themes,
programs, exhibits, and the overall learning experience of museums
should take into account young children.  My son is almost four years
old and visually impaired to some extent.  He is getting to an age where
children's programs and exhibits will interest him if they also cater to
a younger age group.  Why shouldn't young children be included?  They
definitely should.  I think it is a great idea.  I also feel that young
children with special needs should be considered when a museum is
developing themes, exhibits and programs.  My son is not, by far, the
one of few children with special needs.  I challenge museums to rise to
this task.  Believe me, when I show up at a museum, or call, I always
inquire what types of programs and exhibits they have that my son would
enjoy and learn from.  I am a regular museum visitor and a museum
professional.  I want my boy to gain a healthy interest and respect for
museums.  Many museums do have interesting activities and learning
experiences for children, but it is a shame when the only thing a museum
can offer my son (or any young child)is the opportunity to push elevator
buttons- and he enjoys this activity more than I care to admit!

Thanks,

Arlyn Danielson

-----Original Message-----
From: Tom Hanchett [mailto:[log in to unmask]] 
Sent: Friday, January 09, 2004 9:13 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Children in the mix?

Our museum is debating audience development strategies. Does anyone know
of data on the relative importance of children as part of the potential
museum-going population?  What do you lose if you do NOT go after
children and youth? Have experts written about this? We are especially
interested in history museums.

Tom Hanchett, Levine Museum of the New South
[log in to unmask]

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