My daughter, Issa (8), loves science. Currently, her primary topic of interest is space. Dinosaurs, snakes, grasshoppers and weather also rank in the top five slots.
Last week the Detroit Science Center succumbed to the economic woes our entire nation continues to face; and temporarily closed its doors. Here is the impact economic peril is having on young minds in my home.
Before school as Issa brushed her teeth she said…
“I am so sad about the Detroit Science Center closing. Just think about how dark and lonely it must feel without anyone there to watch the shows [in the planetarium].”
I said…
“I am sad it closed, too. I know how much you really enjoyed visiting with Grandma and Papa.”
She said…
“I might have dreams about it closing. I hope Cranbrook stays open.”
I said…
“Me, too. All of these museums need money.”
She said…
Well, the next time the Tooth Fairy visits, I’ll give the Detroit Science Center the money I get for my teeth.
Tears started to form in my eyes. I was speechless. Here, a young lady under the age of 10 appreciates the learning opportunities all of us (i.e. children, adults, teachers, students, residents, visitors, Detroiters, suburbanites, etc.) will miss if institutions such as the Detroit Science Center close temporarily or indefinitely.
Related links:
Detroit Science Center closing — at least for now
Will the Detroit Science Center Close for Good?
Related articles
- Don’t stop the Detroit Science Center! (blogs.discovermagazine.com)
Kate Parish 