Bronzeville Children’s Museum

Unfortunately the 1 star that I am offering is only for the ease of location and the brand new looking facility from the outside. Now for «My» personal issues, I was excited to take my 2yr old son to the museum especially since the signage stated «building children’s minds.» As I entered the parking lot I noticed that my car and only 1 other occupied the lot. I was totally fine with this seeing that it was 1pm on a Wednesday and most were at school or work. I find this to be a prime opportunity to enjoy an educational outing with my son. As we approached the door, I read a sign that offered the museum’s hours, which were compliant with and then an age requirement of 3yrs-​9 for «Tours» with the tour times outlined. So, I figured since me and the little guy were not interested in a tour that we would be just fine to enter and explore. Boy was I WRONG. We had to ring a bell to have someone open the door and an older woman came to greet us. She stuck her head out of the door and from the reception I was sure she was going to say they were closed or something. She seemed more of a «gatekeeper» than anything and waited for me to ASK if we could enter. She then proceeded to ask my Son’s age in which I replied, «‘he is 2.» She instantly told us that he was too young and that he would not be interested in the tour. I instantly replied, «no problem, we weren’t looking for a guided tour,» and asked if it truly was an interactive museum. Long story short, we were turned away and I was completely turned OFF. I have enjoyed days at the museum of Science and Industry, sat with my son during a 10minute planet exhibit and all. To Assume that my son would not be interested in the museum or even tour at age 2 versus 3 is insane and disrespectful. Is there truly a huge difference in the two ages? Building children’s minds? Who determines at what is age appropriate for that mind to begin building? I wonder if the Children’s museum at Navy Pier has the same doorbell, gatekeeper, ages, and emptiness? I’ll surely update you as I explore other areas to help build my Son’s mind and understanding of his community and the world. I believe leaders start early, and maybe we limit ourselves with age restrictions when it comes to learning. This wasn’t the a Six Flags ride we were attempting to get on or an exclusive Chicago nightclub. Not happy as you can see.

My partner and I had a bad experience at the museum, they are not people oriented, the older lady appeared arrogant and not wanting us there, she kept stating (this is an African-​American museum) o. k we got that, my partner asked is this a place for us or not because she was so cold, she said she meaning our grandchild couldn’t run around and play, then she said when she’s older recommended 3 – 9 or something like that, that is not a place where anyone should take their kids, unless they want to be treated cold or was it because my partner is Caucasian, my partner seems to think so.