Play for Every Family: How CMoW Makes Learning Accessible to All

Every child deserves a place to explore, imagine, and learn through play, no matter their background or income. At The Children’s Museum of Wilmington, accessibility isn’t an add-on. It’s a core part of the mission. 

Through a blend of national initiatives, community partnerships, and museum-driven programs, CMoW ensures that families across the Cape Fear region can experience hands-on learning in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Here’s how we open our doors wider so every child in Wilmington can discover the power of play.

Museums for All: Learning Without Limits

CMoW is proud to participate in Museums for All, a national program created to make enriching museum experiences accessible to families receiving government-assisted food benefits.

Through this partnership:

• Families can purchase discounted $3 admission tickets in person by showing an EBT card and matching photo ID.

• Each cardholder may purchase up to six tickets per visit.

• Admission is available year-round, ensuring accessibility isn’t limited to certain days or seasons.

This initiative helps remove financial barriers so all children can explore science, art, literacy, and imaginative play.

Plan your trip and see accessibility resources available onsite.

Community Membership Program: Local Support, Local Impact

CMoW’s Community Membership Program extends access even further by working directly with public libraries in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender Counties, along with Smart Start of New Hanover, Pender, and—new this winter—Smart Start of Brunswick County.

Through these partnerships:

• Families can reserve a free annual membership through participating libraries or Smart Start locations.

• Community Memberships are funded through grants, Contributor Memberships, corporate partners, and sponsors of CMoW’s annual fundraisers.

• Members receive all standard benefits, including daily program access and reciprocal learning opportunities.

Families redeem memberships in person at the Museum’s front desk. Guest passes and coupons may also be used during regular admission hours on non-event days.

CMoW also participates in a partnership discount with the Museum of Coastal Carolina and Ingram Planetarium, helping families explore learning opportunities beyond Wilmington.

Why Access Matters

Museums play an essential role in children’s developmental growth. Interactive environments like CMoW build curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills, especially when children return often and experience new

exhibits or programs.

According to research from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, museum visits support stronger family bonds and early learning across all socioeconomic backgrounds, reinforcing that accessible cultural

spaces benefit entire communities.

Accessible programs ensure that:

• Families can visit repeatedly, deepening learning over time.

• Children from all backgrounds feel welcomed and represented.

• Communities grow stronger through shared discovery and connection.

  
  

Partnerships That Strengthen Community

Accessibility at CMoW is possible because of strong community partnerships. Local schools, social service groups, and nonprofit organizations identify families who would benefit most from free or reduced admission, making sure learning opportunities reach those who need them.

One of the most impactful ways families can support this effort is by becoming a Contributor Member. For each Contributor Membership purchased, CMoW donates an Adventurer Membership to a community organization supporting local families. This means your membership has a direct, meaningful impact on another child’s ability to enjoy creative and educational play.

Contributor Members enjoy a full year of museum access while helping another family experience the same joy. It’s a simple way to multiply your impact.

CMoW is also continuously evaluating new ways to expand access through additional accessibility programs and community partnerships. Organizations serving families in the Cape Fear region who are interested in exploring a potential partnership are encouraged to reach out—we welcome conversations that help us grow our reach and better serve our community.

You can explore membership options here.

Making Every Visit Inclusive

Inclusive learning goes far beyond admission pricing. CMoW creates an environment where every child and every family can experience play in a way that feels comfortable and supported.

The museum offers:

• Sensory Sundays, providing quieter, gentler playtime for children with sensory sensitivities

• Power Packs, available for free checkout, including sound-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and tactile tools

• Nurture Nook and Calming Cave, low-stimulation spaces where children can reset when overwhelmed

• Free admission for therapists, caregivers, and guardians ad litem

• Exhibits designed with multiple learning styles in mind—visual, tactile, imaginative, and movement-based

Service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are always welcome.

Visit our Accessibility Resources online to learn more about how CMoW creates an inclusive environment for every visitor.

A Museum for Everyone

When families step inside The Children’s Museum of Wilmington, they enter a space designed for connection, creativity, and joyful learning. Programs like Museums for All and the Community Membership Program help

ensure that hands-on experiences remain accessible to every child, regardless of circumstance.

Need assistance with discounted or free admission? Contact us.

Want to support our mission? Become a CMoW member or donor and help keep play open to all.