Sunshine Award Winner: Iowa Children’s Museum

Play is an engine for ingenuity, creativity and exploration that is essential for child development — and it’s the mission at the Iowa Children’s Museum, located within the Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville, Iowa.

“A visit to our museum is all about play, discovery and imagination, and the right toy or activity can keep that spark alive long after
families leave.” — Kara Ramirez

The museum’s gift shop is a fun-loving vehicle for continuing hands-on play, and every purchase supports the museum and its related nonprofit’s mission to inspire every child to imagine, create, discover and explore through play.

“A visit to our museum is all about play, discovery and imagination, and the right toy or activity can keep that spark alive long after families leave,” says Kara Ramirez, gift shop manager.

An inclusive experience

Products in the shop are chosen with the museum’s mission in mind. Ramirez says these toys are “safe, encourage active learning, and inspire kids and parents to play together.”

For example, puppets inspire storytelling. Musical instruments foster self-expression. Sensory toys support developmental growth.

“These items help children continue learning through play at home,” she points out, emphasizing that a gift of play is more than a souvenir. “It’s a way to reinforce the experiences and creativity ignited at the museum.”

Playing it forward

Proceeds from gift shop purposes help support exhibits, educational programs and outreach initiatives to ensure children in the community can access high-quality, play-based learning opportunities.

Ramirez adds, “Beyond supporting the museum’s exhibits and programs, our gift shop also plays a role in making play more accessible to all families.”

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Sunshine Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through
charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.sgnmag.com/sunshine-award.