NEWTOWN – EverWonder Children’s Museum has been tapping into children’s love for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math for more than 10 years.
“Families see EverWonder as a place where children feel confident, curious, and welcomed,” said Executive Director Merredith Christos. “Many children experience science here in a way they never have before. For parents, educators, and caregivers, EverWonder represents opportunity, inclusion, and possibility – a place where learning feels joyful rather than intimidating.”
In the midst of celebrating its milestone, the museum appreciates the resurgence of this integrated, hands-on approach to these fields of education. “Celebrating 10 years is humbling and energizing. We’ve been through a lot of big changes including a move to our permanent home, and can’t wait to see what the future holds,” Christos said.
“EverWonder’s longevity comes from community trust, adaptability, and mission focus. We’ve always listened closely to families, educators, and partners, and we continuously evolve our programs based on what children truly need. At the same time, we’ve remained grounded in our purpose of making STEM learning accessible, joyful, and inclusive.”
EverWonder is a nonprofit children’s museum that offers hands-on STEM exhibits and programming for children and families. Its mission is to cultivate a lifelong love-of-learning in children by encouraging them to think, inquire, and wonder about the world around them.
Its exhibits and programs encourage curiosity, experimentation, and problem-solving through play. The organization combines immersive exhibits with live programming, outreach to schools, field trips, and strong accessibility initiatives, allowing children to experience science, according to Christos. Annually, its programming reaches tens of thousands of children throuth birthday parties, STEM workshops, sensory-friendly programs and community festivals.
“We stand apart by combining high-quality STEM content with genuine accessibility,” she said. EverWonder intentionally blends entertainment and academics while also prioritizing underserved communities, Title I schools, sensory-friendly programming, and affordability. We are a community resource.”
In 2023, EverWonder moved into a new larger space on the top floor at 11 Mile Hill Road with hopes of purchasing the building. The idea is to expand its current 10,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet, including exterior exhibits.
“Moving to our current location was a critical business decision as we were selling out tickets daily in our old location,” she said. “It allowed us to increase capacity, improve visitor experience, expand programming, and strengthen long-term sustainability.”
According to John Voket, the town’s economic and community development director, the museum represents Newtown’s future.
“It helps educate young visitors about STEM in a fun way that doesn’t feel like a classroom experience,” Voket said. “EverWonder exhibits and educators eliminate a fear of the unknown that so often discourages young people from exploring and enjoying science and mathematics.”
Voket sees EverWonder as a destination through its many diverse programs and events that have consistently attracted visitors from an ever-widening geographical footprint that includes New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania.
Looking ahead, the museum is focused on growth with purpose.
“We’re expanding outreach programming, launching new STEM experiences such as our traveling planetarium, increasing access initiatives, and strengthening partnerships with schools and community organizations,” Christos said.
They will focus on continued facility development and expanded regional impact.
“As we enter EverWonder’s second decade, I remain grateful for the community that has supported our journey. Our impact would not be possible without the businesses, families, educators, volunteers, and partners who continue to believe in our mission,” she said.
