Our Mission
“Engage. Explore. Educate.”
We believe that children should be able to explore their curiosities in a safe environment. Engaging the community, including the family unit, is imperative in a child’s development. To educate children means more than sending them to school. We want to provide opportunities for children to experience the wonder and excitement of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on exhibits, multimedia, and content-rich programs that encourage exploration, engage the learner, and ultimately educate the child.
Purpose
Our purpose is to provide opportunities for children and their families to learn and play together.
History
Explorium Denton Children’s Museum
Explorium was founded in May 2012 by Anyah Brittain, a mother of three who felt that Denton needed a place for children and their families to learn and play together. After gathering a few friends to form a board, Explorium joined the Association for Children’s Museums and began planning what would take six years to create. Since its inception, Explorium has been dedicated to inspiring children through hands-on, interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to foster creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. It quickly became a cherished institution, offering a dynamic space where children of all ages could explore and discover. Over the years, Explorium played a pivotal role in enriching the lives of countless families throughout Denton County, helping to cultivate imagination and wonder in a fun, engaging environment. Explorium had its public debut at the Denton Community Market in 2013 and then began to make appearances at local schools, childcare centers, and community events, providing hands-on, educational activities for children and adults. In 2014 Explorium received its 501c3 status and began fundraising through events like Touch a Truck, and building relationships with local businesses, individuals, and foundations who continue to support the museum. Explorium Denton Children’s Museum opened its doors at its brick-and-mortar location on September 15, 2018. We invite you to bring your family, book a field trip or birthday party for a wonderful time of learning through play.
Denton County Friends of the Family (DCFOF), established in 1980, has been a cornerstone of support for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. With a mission to promote safety, healing, hope, justice, and prevention, DCFOF offers comprehensive services, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention education. Over the decades, DCFOF has become the leading nonprofit in Denton County dedicated to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children affected by violence. Through its services, DCFOF has worked to foster resilience and support for those who have experienced trauma.
On August 1, 2024, DCFOF announced the acquisition of Explorium Denton Children’s Museum in a strategic effort to expand its services to children and families within the community. This acquisition allows DCFOF to integrate Explorium’s innovative educational programs into its existing services, providing children affected by trauma with a safe, nurturing environment for learning and healing. The partnership aligns with DCFOF’s mission to build a stronger, healthier community by addressing the needs of its most vulnerable members.
Explorium will continue to operate under its current name, ensuring the community can still enjoy the same engaging, educational experiences it has come to love. With this new chapter, DCFOF will introduce programs aimed at supporting families impacted by violence, while continuing to offer Explorium’s beloved exhibits and activities. Together, both organizations will create new opportunities for healing, growth, and education, enhancing their shared commitment to serving the community.