Designated by Congress in 2003, the National Children’s Museum is a nationally-recognized cultural and educational institution serving children and families onsite and through national partners and programs. 

The National Children’s Museum (NCM) inspires children to care about and improve the world. The Museum's exhibits and innovative educational programs spark the imagination and celebrate the true power of children, motivating them to become people who make a difference in the world.

NCM will open its indoor space in November 2012 and an outdoor experience in May 2013 at National Harbor in Prince George's County, Maryland. Together, these two dynamic and engaging spaces will be a destination for families, school groups, area residents, and visitors from around the world. The Museum will offer a base for programming that reaches throughout the region and across the country.

NCM is the only national museum focused on children. Its exhibits and programs honor kids’ voices and reflect themes that speak to them as they learn about and engage with the world around them. The Museum's spaces and activities focus on six core content areas: 

• the arts
• civic engagement
• the environment
• global citizenship
• health and well being
• play