A disconnect exists between what science tells us about the developmental needs of children ages 0–5 and what society does to support that development. Considerable evidence indicates that the public and policymakers do not appreciate the crucial issues underlying early childhood development; nor does either group know how best to incorporate science into public policy. Wonder Years: The Science of Early Childhood Development, a unique and collaborative project, is about the big things that happen in little brains. It aims to ensure that children ultimately benefit from the growing body of knowledge about the importance of early brain development. Information in the exhibit is designed to help adults better understand the world that children experience. Related programming helps to create ongoing conversations about this important topic. As part of the project, the Science Museum of Minnesota is hosting a variety of public conversations about early childhood development. These conversations range from half-day conferences to small group discussions following a visit to the exhibition.

Wonder Years is a partnership of the Science Museum of Minnesota, the University of Minnesota and Public Agenda. Funding for Wonder Years is provided by the National Science Foundation. Additional funding for programming is provided by the F.R. Bigelow Foundation.

Visit the Wonder Years site

Image Gallery

Wonder Years is funded by the National Science Foundation.
Learn More

BACK TO PROJECT HISTORY