For community, by community
Sharing the stories that bring the Museum to life.
“This is my kids favorite place on the planet!”
– Genesis, mom
Comments like this never stop amazing us.
Children’s Museum of Franklin was created to be a place where families can laugh together, imagine freely, explore boldly, and make memories that stick long after the visit ends. To know that this space has become part of so many childhoods – and family routines – means more than we can possibly say.
“I took my students - all on the autism spectrum - to the Museum for an unforgettable field trip. To have the space entirely to ourselves was a gift and allowed for my students to play in a way that was most comfortable for them.”
– Ali, educator
At the Museum, we are continually working to create experiences that support belonging, accessibility, and confidence for all children and families.
Sometimes, that looks like sensory-friendly resources and thoughtful spaces. Sometimes, it looks like opening our doors in a different way so children can engage with the Museum on their own terms.
Because play should feel joyful, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.
“It is a privilege to lead the Museum's Board of Directors and see all the work behind the scenes of this growing non-profit organization. Plus, I love bringing my family here and experiencing the mission in action!”
– Emily Martins
As a nonprofit organization, there is so much heart behind every exhibit, program, event, and moment of joy shared within these walls. We are endlessly grateful for the people helping grow a place where children and families can discover, imagine, and belong together through play.
“It can be hard to find places that accommodate my daughter's unique needs. The Museum is full of joy — and is truly a place of belonging for all!”
– Stefanie, mom to Sophia
Belonging is something we work to build into every part of the visitor experience. From thoughtful exhibit design and sensory considerations to welcoming staff and accessible resources, we want every child and grown-up to feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated when they walk through our doors.
Creating a space where all families can discover, imagine, and grow together through play will always be a priority for us. Because every child deserves joy.
“Franklin Public Library loves being able to offer our visitors reduced-rate passes to the Museum. It's a great way to connect our shared communities who are passionate about learning!”
– Caleigh, Children’s Librarian at Franklin Public Library
Libraries help open the door to play. Across the region, libraries are helping families access reduced-rate admission to Children’s Museum of Franklin through museum pass programs available for checkout.
Check with your local library to see if they offer a pass to Children’s Museum of Franklin!
“Working at the Museum allows me the opportunity to lean into my love for creative play. The MakerSpace is my jam!”
– Rachel, Visitor Experience Associate
Paint splatters. Cardboard inventions. Kids hard at work. Big ideas coming to life. That’s the magic of making.
At the Museum, creativity is more than an activity – it’s how kiddos build confidence, solve problems, express themselves, and discover what they’re capable of.
“Working at the Museum allows us to take what we are studying at college and apply it in a real world setting. Plus, we love meeting all the kids who come to play!”
– Syd & Jamie, Visitor Experience Associates & Dean College Students
From future educators to artists, scientists, marketers, community leaders and so much more, our incredible student team members are gaining hands-on experience, while helping create joyful moments for thousands of children and families.
“We’re grateful to nourish families beyond the dinner table, helping our neighbors create precious memories and providing children a chance to learn, play, and simply enjoy being a kid.”
– Tina Powderly, Franklin Food Pantry
One of the things we emphasize most here is ensuring families feel like they belong – not someday, not “when things are easier,” but right now.
Through our partnership with Franklin Food Pantry, families receiving support from the pantry can also receive free play passes to the Museum. Because joy, connection, play and childhood moments matter, too.
“Best day EVER at the museum”
– Matty, AND us any time volunteers walk through our doors!
We are the proud colleagues of a team of volunteers from Advocates Inc, who bring welcoming energy, joy, and so much needed support on the exhibit floor that keeps the magic happening every day.
We are so grateful for this partnership and the community it continues to build.
If you’re interested in volunteering with the Museum, follow this link.