Our world is different today than it was just a couple of months ago. So many things have changed: the ways we move, the ways we communicate with others, even the ways we learn have all changed.

But one thing remains the same.

Play matters.

As we navigate this new reality with our children and families, we realize play has never mattered more. Play has not only been proven to be the ideal modality for learning, it reduces stress, increases engagement, and helps support social/emotional development of all children (and also adults!) We have never needed the opportunity to play more than in this time.

So, at the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, we’ve changed the ways we play together- from a distance, online, and through social media, we continue to create educational content and support learning-through-play activities for children, their families, and educators. And because play has never mattered more, we will continue to innovate, finding more ways to play from wherever you are.

We also know that someday, we’ll be back playing together in our sweet museum. We’re hard at work there too, preparing exciting new experiences to welcome you back.

But we need your help to continue our work. To plan for a new tomorrow and to be part of your home today, we must have financial support. Over 80% of our income is generated by visitors who buy admissions, memberships, celebrate birthdays, and join in the wonderful symphony of learning-through-play programs and activities we offer. Without that income, the needs are many and resources few.

You can help.

Because play has never mattered more, support CML by giving to our Giving Tuesday campaign.

And because play has never mattered more for everyone but especially for those on the front line of our community serving and caring for us, for every gift we receive, we’ll provide one free Family Pass for an essential worker and their family.

Join in. Give what you can. Because play has never mattered more.

Please post your pictures and stories about how play is healing and helping your family right now. If you can share DooDash participating in the fun, even better! Tag us with the hashtag #PlayHasNeverMatteredMore so we can find and share your posts with our community.

Don’t have a DooDash? Don’t worry! Print out our coloring page and show us your creativity at work!