The Early Start Discovery Space is the world’s first dedicated children’s museum based on a University campus. As an interactive, public access and playful learning venue, the Early Start Discovery Space fosters the power of play, interaction and connection.
It provides interactive experiences, stimulating, evidence informed programs, research translation events, and learn-through-play opportunities for children aged birth to ten and their adults.
UOW researchers and their findings guide and influence all aspects of the Discovery Space, ensuring our play-based experiences and public programs are grounded in evidence and beneficial to children’s development.
All experiences are designed to allow children to take control and share their imagination and creativity with others. The environment stimulates curiosity, supports independence, encourages social interaction and promotes an inclusive community.
All the experiences have been designed to encourage a ‘partnership of play’, where children, families and educators all benefit as co-learners and creators. Early Start Discovery Space is operated and supported by the University of Wollongong and was made possible by a generous $7 million contribution from The Abbott Foundation.
Promotional video for the Early Start Discovery Space