The Children’s Museum of Wilmington's Reopens Dental Exhibit in Partnership with Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry

Wilmington, NC — July 2, 2026 — The Children’s Museum of Wilmington is excited to announce the reopening of its popular dental exhibit with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, July 7 from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. This freshly redesigned space, sponsored by Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry, invites children to explore the dental experience in an accepting and comfortable environment.

The dental exhibit, officially named Surf's Up Smile Shack, is a staple of the Children's Museum of Wilmington that has been used by families to help destigmatize dental visits for kiddos. Guests are able to play the role of a patient or a dentist in a fun environment, helping to make the real dentist visit more familiar and comfortable. Further, the exhibit introduces littles to the idea that they could one day become a dentist or a similar profession in the field.

While Surf's Up Smile Shack can help reduce dentist anxiety for littles, the exhibit also features several stations that will promote good oral hygiene, share facts about tooth care, and offer interactive opportunities to learn more through books and infographics.

"What a joy it has been to work with the Wilmington Pediatric Team," said Executive Director of the Museum, Jessie Goodwin. "Their passion and dedication shines through everything they do making this partnership fun, playful, and especially meaningful. We are excited for this collaboration and for our guests who get to explore the world of dentistry in our space." 

While Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry may be a new exhibit sponsor, they are a returning supporter of CMoW going as far back as our relocation to the current property over 20 years ago. Their partnership through Surf's Up Smile Shack is the most recent avenue Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry is supporting playful learning for children in our community.

"Since 1997, Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry, better known to many families as Dr. Skip, Dr. Stephanie, and Dr. Katie has been honored to serve and support our local community. Today, we are especially proud to partner with the Children’s Museum of Wilmington and be part of the fantastic work they do for the children and families of Wilmington and the surrounding communities," said the crew at Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry. "Supporting an organization that inspires learning, creativity, and growth in young children is a privilege, and we could not be more excited to be involved."

The ribbon cutting ceremony is open to all Museum guests and families in the community that wish to participate. The celebration will officially start at 3:30pm with the ribbon cutting taking place at 3:45pm. The Museum and Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry will have goodies and takeaways for guests during the celebration.

For press inquiries or more information about the event, please contact:

Jessie Goodwin

Phone: 910-254-3534 x 101

Email: jessie@playwilmington.org

Website: www.playwilmington.org

About The Children's Museum of Wilmington

The Children’s Museum of Wilmington is a non-profit organization committed to inspiring creativity, exploration, and lifelong learning in children through hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and exciting events. The Museum serves as a hub for playful learning and community engagement for families across southeastern North Carolina.

About Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry

Wilmington Pediatric Dentistry is a compassionate, patient-centered pediatric dental office that helps little smiles grow strong and healthy. Their conservative approach means they will never recommend unnecessary or overly invasive treatments. Since 1997, their expert team has provided gentle and exceptional pediatric dental care for children across Wilmington, NC and surrounding communities, from infancy through young adulthood for many years.