DuPage Children's Museum

Community Access & Outreach

The Community Access & Outreach program enables DuPage Children’s Museum to partner with social service agencies throughout the community, making the Museum accessible to families who may not otherwise be able to visit. Because of this program, the Museum can assure the community that families with financial, physical and social limitations can visit the Museum and experience its rich educational resources and unique environment. The Community Access Network (CAN) program is funded through private grants.

How does it work?
The Museum provides free memberships and free admissions to agencies that work with families having limited resources. Participating agencies receive discounted field trips, and the use of the Museum's portable exhibits.

How can my agency participate?
Agencies that would like to participate in the program can contact the Community Access Coordinator at (630) 637-8000, ext. 4800 for information. Lists of participating agencies can be obtained upon request.

What else does the Community Access Network do besides providing admissions and memberships?
The Museum also tailors special programs to meet the needs of families who may not be included in any of the agency or school categories. For example:

The Community Access Network provides help to non- English speaking families to overcome language barriers while visiting the Museum.
If a visitor with a disability requires a personal assistant in addition to their supervising adult, the personal assistant will be admitted at no charge. Admission prices still apply for the supervising adult.
In order to make a successful Museum visit for children with communication disorders such as autism, the Museum has an exhibit LOOK BOOK available to borrow at the admission desk. The book has detachable photos of each exhibit area for use in preparing a child for a Museum visit.
Finally, DCM exhibit developers make a conscious effort to design exhibits that are handicap accessible.

Third Thursday
Third Thursday is a special time once a month for families of children with autism spectrum disorders, visual impairments, and/or mobility impairments to enjoy the Museum from 5-7 p.m. A resource table is available with community services displayed. Come play with other families! Normal admission prices apply. The Museum is open at this time and everyone is welcome! Click here for more Third Thursday information.

The Museum’s Family Resource Center and the Community Access Network are dedicated to providing area families with resources and information relating to child development and education.

The Museum would like to thank the organizations that fund the Community Access Network!

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