Mid-Hudson Arts and Science Center

The Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum will grow its existing partnership with the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center to enhance school readiness among low-income and underserved children ages 3-5. Through this project, young children from five early childhood education centers in Poughkeepsie, NY, will participate in monthly field trip programs at the museum and linked programs in their education centers to help develop successful transition into elementary school; family workshops will engage parents; and professional development sessions for early educators will provide instruction on how to strengthen links among parents, educators, and museum professionals. The project will benefit the community as the museum shifts into the role of community convener of organizations that promote school readiness, greater academic achievement, and success of youth.