Port Discovery Children's Museum

✨Meet Our New Board Members ✨ We are beyond excited to introduce five outstanding individuals who have recently joined the Port Discovery Board! Their diverse expertise, leadership, and dedication to community service will play a key role in shaping the future of Port Discovery and the families we serve. 💼 Alexander Yaffe Managing Director at Pearl Meyer Alexander’s decades of expertise with leadership and governance in tax-exempt organizations will bring valuable insight to Port Discovery as we thoughtfully navigate growth and evolution as individuals, teams, and an organization. 💼 Bret Schreiber Senior Vice President, Life Sciences and Technology at Fulton Bank Bret brings a wealth of expertise as Senior Vice President of Fulton Bank's Life Sciences and Technology Division, where he invests in innovative and disruptive companies within the life sciences and technology sectors. His strategic leadership and forward-thinking approach align seamlessly with Port Discovery’s mission to foster creativity, curiosity, and innovation, inspiring and empowering children and families. 🌟 Ernestine Chambers President & CEO, Upskill Etc. Ernestine is a renowned national trainer and leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership development, and coaching. As an expert in results-based accountability frameworks and operational service delivery, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in human capital planning. Her dynamic leadership and commitment to driving meaningful change make her an invaluable asset to Port Discovery. 🍴 Joe Sweeney Director of Marketing & PR at Atlas Restaurant Group With extensive experience in marketing and public relations, Joe brings a unique flavor to the Port Discovery team! His expertise in creating impactful campaigns and building community connections will be instrumental in elevating our visibility and impact. We’re thrilled to have Joe on board as we continue to serve up opportunities for learning, play, and discovery. 🌟 Dr. Julie Militello Founder of Revitalive and Board-Certified Internist Julie brings a profound passion for wellness and an unwavering commitment to community volunteerism. As the founder of Revitalive and a board-certified internist, her expertise in promoting healthy living and creating positive change align perfectly with Port Discovery’s mission. We couldn’t agree more that a “prescription” for play is just what the doctor orders! Together, these incredible leaders will help us continue to inspire creativity, foster learning, and support the children and families who walk through our doors every day. We can’t wait to see all the great things we’ll achieve together! 💫 #PortDiscovery #BaltimoreCommunity #NewBoardMembers #MakingADifference #Leadership #InspiringInnovation #CreativeLearning #CommunityImpact

We were deeply touched by the beautiful holiday cards created by some children and delivered to our staff this past week. 💌🎨 This moment was a reminder of the incredible power of self-expression and how meaningful it is to build a community where creativity is celebrated. As a children’s museum, we are always saying that play and art are not just fun—they are essential. For children, creative expression through art helps them communicate, explore new ideas, and connect with the world around them. These heartfelt cards filled with joy and imagination are the perfect example of how children use art to share their thoughts, spark joy, and create connections within a community. 🎠✨ It’s moments like this that remind us why we do what we do. Every piece of art, every act of creativity is a building block of a more connected, inclusive community. We believe in fostering these connections through play, self-expression, and collaboration. Thank you to the young artists who shared their beautiful creations with us. Your cards have left a lasting impression, and we look forward to continuing to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers and doers! 🌟 #PowerOfPlay #CreativeKids #SelfExpression #MuseumCommunity #ArtMatters #PortDiscoveryMagic #InspirationThroughArt #Grateful #ChildrensMuseum #CommunityConnectionW

✨ As part of our 12 Days of Play this Winter Break at Port Discovery, we're taking a moment on Day 3 to reflect on the true meaning of FAMILY—something that extends far beyond the holidays. 🧸❤️ In this special #TeddyTalk video, our CEO & President, @Carter Polakoff, and Teddy, our beloved museum social-emotional puppet pal, share an important conversation about family and community. Teddy is upset because he is unable to get home for the holidays, but he and Carter emphasize that family isn’t just about relatives—it’s about the broader community that supports, nurtures, and strengthens us throughout the year. At Port Discovery, we believe that community connection is the foundation of growth, both personally and professionally. Just as in a family, when we come together, share experiences, and support each other, we create an environment where everyone can thrive. As we enter the middle of the holiday season, we extend our warmest wishes to our Port Discovery family—here in Baltimore and across the globe. May your holidays be filled with connection, collaboration, and the kind of support that makes us all stronger. 💕✨ #12DaysOfPlay #CommunityLeadership #HolidaySeason #PortDiscovery #MuseumMagic #InclusiveCulture #TogetherWeAreFamily #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #BaltimoreCommunity

A big thank you to First Book and the LEGO Group for inviting Port Discovery to be a part of the Playful Schools Challenge virtual event! 🌟 On December 12th, our team had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the Build the Change session—an inspiring experience that highlighted the power of creative, hands-on learning for students ages 7-12. At Port Discovery, we believe there are countless ways for children to learn and grow, and we’re thrilled to have joined others in exploring how play and imagination can shape the future. The session provided a fun and engaging space for students to tap into their creativity, think critically, and envision the positive changes they want to see in the world. We left the virtual event feeling inspired by the incredible ideas shared and excited about the ways play and problem-solving can spark new ways of thinking. Thank you again to all the incredible partners and educators involved. We’re looking forward to what’s next for Port Discovery and can’t wait to continue bringing creativity and learning to life in even more exciting ways! Stay tuned to see what’s coming up next—we’ve got some exciting things on the horizon! 🚀 #ThankYou #PlayfulLearning #CreativeEducation #HandsOnLearning #PortDiscovery #LEGO #FirstBook #BuildTheChange #EarlyLearning #STEM #EdTech #StudentEngagement

🚨 Exciting News! 🎉 We are thrilled to announce that our Learning & Visitor Experience Director, Caite Debevec, spoke with WJZ | CBS News Baltimore this morning to share details about our newest exhibit — #Blocktopia! 💙 Inspired by Imagination Playground, Blocktopia is an immersive, hands-on experience where visitors of all ages can explore the worlds of construction, architecture, and creativity! 🏗️✨ This engaging exhibit encourages visitors to build, design, and learn in a fun and interactive environment. Key highlights of Blocktopia: 🌈 Ignite your creativity with blue block inspired building challenges! 🏠 Explore architecture, engineering, and design through hands-on play. 🤩 Perfect for families, groups, and anyone interested in discovering the power of imagination. A huge thank you to Open Works Baltimore for helping us bring this incredible space to life! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit and experience Blocktopia — a place where imagination meets innovation! 🔗 Watch the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/e3g6mW-4 🔗 Learn more about Blocktopia: https://lnkd.in/eCvMgfDw #Blocktopia #PortDiscovery #WJZNews #HandsOnLearning #NewExhibit #FamilyFun #Architecture #Innovation #ExhibitLaunch

🍷✨ Tickets Available Now for Hops & Vines! (21+ Event) 🍺🎶 Get ready to Sip, Savor & Support learning through play at Port Discovery’s Hops & Vines 2025! Join us on Saturday, February 1, 2025 for an exclusive 21+ evening of tastings, games, and mingling — all to support children’s educational and access programs! 🌟 Here’s What’s Waiting for You: 🍻 Unlimited tastings from top Maryland breweries, wineries, and spirits 🍽️ Delectable hors d’oeuvres & desserts from Baltimore’s finest 🎉 Trivia, games, and a night-at-the-museum vibe made for grown-ups! 🏛️ Full access to explore 3 floors of interactive fun Event Details 📅 Date: February 1, 2025 ⏰ Time: 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. 📍 Location: Port Discovery Children’s Museum 🎟️ Pricing: $65 in advance | $75 at the door To purchase tickets, https://bit.ly/3HSKDER Tag a friend who loves a good night out and let’s make this an unforgettable 21+ evening! 🥂✨ Don’t wait—grab your tickets now and toast with us to learning through play! #BaltimoreEvents #PortDiscovery #HopsVines2025 #BaltimoreFundraiser

Had a great time last week with my fellow Anne Arundel RUN Board members at the United Way of Central Maryland Women's Forum, learning about the challenges and opportunities facing families, particularly working women, when it comes to childcare. We heard from UWCM CEO Franklyn Baker, Secretary Tisha Edwards, MSW, JD and First Lady Dawn Flythe Moore, Kendra Rice Parlock led a conversation with Moms First and Girls Who Code founder Reshma Saujani and spent some times touring Port Discovery Children's Museum. Bravo to everyone involved in planning and putting together a powerful and dynamic lineup! Stephanie Goldenberg Antwan Johnson Sarah Amyot Dawn Edgerton-Cameron, AAMS™, CRPS™ Shelly Elliott, MBA Cindy O'Neill Dominic Powell (Jennifer Harrington, there in spirit)

Exciting Opportunities at Port Discovery! 🌟 We are expanding our team and hiring for multiple positions! If you’re passionate about education, events, and creating unforgettable experiences, we want to hear from you! We’re looking for talented individuals to fill the following roles: Associate Director of Learning Rental & Events Manager Digital Content Manager Group Sales Specialist Learning Specialist (Part-Time) Housekeeping Associate (Part-Time) Visitor Experience Assistant (Part-Time) At Port Discovery, we believe in the power of play and learning. Our mission is to "provide unique opportunities and high-quality experiences that make play accessible, educational, and fun for all". Join us in making a positive impact in the lives of children and families! 💼 If you’re interested or know someone who might be, check out our career page for more details and to apply: https://lnkd.in/eMfswasw Let’s make magic happen together! ✨ #Hiring #JobOpportunities #PortDiscovery #JoinOurTeam #Education #Events #VisitorExperience #Baltimore #BaltimoreJobs #BaltimoreWorkForce #MarylandJobs

👑✨ This weekend, Port Discovery is proud to participate in Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play alongside @@association-of-children’s-museums, hosting our special medieval event—Queens & Kings & Knights & Things! ⚔️🏰 This day highlights the vital role of play in fostering creativity, connection, and overall well-being. Engaging in play not only enriches the lives of children and families but also enhances learning experiences in museums, schools, and beyond. As Arthur G. Affleck, III, executive director of the Association of Children’s Museums, states, “Play is a powerful experience that enriches people’s lives.” We encourage families to get up, get out, and enjoy a day filled with imaginative activities, from knightly quests to royal crafts. Let’s celebrate the joy of play together! 🎉👸🤴 #WorldwideDayofPlay #PortDiscovery #PlayIsPower #WWDOP #QueensAndKingsAndKnightsAndThings #FamilyFun #MuseumMagic #Nickelodeon

🎥📺 Exciting news! Catch our Multigenerational Programming Manager, Shelby Hiken, featured on WJZ | CBS News Baltimore discussing our upcoming Set Sail for School event! 🌟 Tune in to see Shelby tag team with Carly Reighard from Enoch Pratt Free Library & Maryland State Library Resource Center to share all the details about our annual back-to-school celebration happening on August 24th. Set Sail for School is our annual back-to-school celebration which will be on August 24th! The event is designed to help families and children prepare for the upcoming school year. It features a variety of school-related resources, engaging activities, and free giveaways, all aimed at making the transition back to school smooth and exciting. The event is organized in partnership with Baltimore community organizations, including the Enoch Pratt Free Library, and serves as a fun and educational way to get kids excited about learning. Click the link to view the full segment and get ready to set sail into the new school year with us! https://lnkd.in/ecHgS5nw #SetSailForSchool #PortDiscovery #WJZ #CBSNews #CommunityEvent