Pretend City Children's Museum, located in Irvine, California, is an engaging and educational destination designed to inspire young children through imaginative play and interactive learning. Here’s a brief educational overview tailored for students and families visiting:
Historical Overview
Foundation: Established in 2009, Pretend City Children's Museum was created to provide a child-sized interconnected city where children can learn about the world through play. The museum focuses on early childhood education and development.
Key Exhibits and Areas
Pretend City: The museum is designed as a miniature city, complete with a variety of themed exhibits that represent different parts of a community. Each area encourages role-playing and hands-on activities.
Grocery Store: Children can shop for groceries, use play money, and learn about healthy eating while practicing math and social skills.
Fire Station: Kids can dress up as firefighters, explore a fire truck, and learn about fire safety and community helpers.
Health Center: This exhibit allows children to role-play as doctors, nurses, and patients, learning about healthcare and the importance of taking care of their bodies.
Construction Site: With tools and building materials, children can engage in imaginative play, developing their fine motor skills and understanding basic engineering concepts.
Art Studio: A creative space where children can express themselves through various art projects, fostering creativity and fine motor skills.
Farm: Kids can learn about agriculture, the farm-to-table process, and the importance of sustainability while engaging in pretend play as farmers.
Interactive Learning
Role-Playing and Imaginative Play: Each exhibit is designed to encourage role-playing, which helps children develop social, cognitive, and motor skills in a fun and engaging way.
Hands-On Activities: The museum offers a variety of hands-on activities and workshops that align with early childhood education principles, promoting learning through play.
Daily Programming: Pretend City offers daily educational programs, storytimes, and special events that enhance the learning experience. These programs often focus on literacy, science, art, and cultural awareness.
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead: Check the museum’s website for current exhibits, special events, and program schedules to make the most of your visit.
Engage with Staff: Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who facilitate activities and provide insights into the exhibits.
Participate in Activities: Encourage children to participate in the various hands-on activities and daily programs to make learning fun and memorable.
Explore the Entire City: The interconnected nature of the exhibits allows for a comprehensive learning experience, so take the time to explore each area thoroughly.
By visiting Pretend City Children's Museum, students and families can immerse themselves in a world of imaginative play, fostering creativity, social skills, and a love for learning through engaging, hands-on experiences.
Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational field trip activities, trip organization and student ticket.
Pretend City
Please use the information on this page (package type, venue name, price, etc.) to submit an order request with your school. Once your order is approved, your school will forward the request to us. We will then reach out to you with instructions on how to finalize your trip details and access accompanying resources. Once finalized, you will receive your e-tickets and any additional materials directly to your inbox within 1-3 business days. If you don't see our email(s), please check your spam folder prior to contacting us.
To ensure a smooth process, it is generally recommended to submit your order with your school AT LEAST 10 business days prior to your trip date, unless you are booking a venue that requires more advanced planning. *Please be mindful of your school's processing times and plan accordingly.