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 is a special time once each month when families of children with autism spectrum disorders, visual impairments, and/or mobility impairments come together to enjoy the Museum and take advantage of the many parent and community resources available to them. This program is available the third Thursday of every month, from 5-7 p.m.

DCM is an ideal location for learning. Our exhibits offer ways to work on language development, social skills and purposeful play. Photo books are available to help visitors structure a visit. Families are also invited to play and utilize the augmentative communication devices available at our exhibits.

In addition to the Museum’s exhibits and activities, during Third Thursday DCM’s Community Access Network coordinator provides a resource table offering visitors information, community and parent support resources.DCM is pleased to bring resources and information to its Third Thursday visitors; however the Museum is not endorsing any organization. Families are encouraged to use their own discretion.

Come play with other families!  Normal admission prices apply. No registration required. Free to DCM Members. The Museum is open at this time and everyone is welcome!

In addition, with support from Hinsdale Center for the Arts, The Association of Children's Museums and Very Special Arts (USA), DCM will be testing some new art activities on Third Thursday, for children who have visual or mobility impairments.

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.

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