Editorial: Children’s Discovery Center a welcome addition

Lewes Historical Society members and donors could not cut the ribbon fast enough at the grand opening of the new Children’s Discovery Center inside Lewes History Museum. Dozens of children, many from Cub Scout and Girl Scout troops, crowded the entrance, eagerly yet patiently waiting to get into the new hands-on exhibit built just for them.

When the time finally came, some children immediately raced to the state-of-the-art boat simulator, where users have four minutes to pilot large tankers, small patrol boats or various vessels in between. Others ran to the general store and lighthouse keeper’s house, where they can shop for groceries, pick up the mail and complete daily chores. In another area, children enjoyed building a boat on a tabletop touchscreen and sending a boat full of cargo on its voyage.

If there was one thing lacking at the grand opening, it was a frown. Children ran from one area to the next, contagious smiles on every face.

The children’s wing is the end of a journey that started before the museum opened in July 2017. A committee of hardworking people from different backgrounds worked together to develop an area children would embrace. The grand opening Dec. 8 was the culmination of their vision.

The children’s wing is open daily for families and field trips. Most importantly, it’s free. In a world where children’s activities are getting more and more expensive, this is a fun and interactive option for families on a budget. Along with the Seaside Nature Center in Cape Henlopen State Park, the Children’s Discovery Center is an educational and entertaining free activity for the young people living in the Cape Region and for visitors.

Congratulations to the Lewes Historical Society and all who contributed to bringing this one-of-a-kind experience to the Cape Region. Surely, it will be cherished by families for decades to come.