In 1992, founder Gigi Priebe and a dedicated group generous individuals were inspired to create an inclusive regional resource for play-fueled learning. Their research illuminated a community interest and need for a hands-on, interactive children’s museum in Fairfield County. The need was met and the founders’ vision realized when Stepping Stones Museum for Children opened its doors on March 11, 2000. In the years since, Stepping Stones has blossomed into an award-winning entity that has served more than 8 million children and families. Visitors who were children in the museum’s early days are now parents bringing their own children in for engaging, play-filled learning experiences. Parents back then are grandparents today sharing the magic of Stepping Stones with the next generation.
The mission of Stepping Stones is to broaden and enrich the educational opportunities for children ages ten and under and enhance their understanding of the world. As we approach our 25th birthday, Stepping Stones will expand the museum’s mission to serve our region’s greatest needs –building literacy, enriching our cultural landscape and preparing children to be healthy community citizens.
Join us as we commemorate the museum’s 25-year legacy and collaborate with us to ensure its mission continues for generations to come.
Learn how you can get involved. Contact Carolyn Knott, Vice President of Integrated Fundraising and Marketing, at 203 899 8804 or Robert Townes, Director of External Affairs, at 203 899 0606, ext. 262.
Go Stepping Stones, it’s your birthday! We’re going to party like it’s your birthday. 25 years is a milestone accomplishment, so we’re hosting a Big Birthday Blowout weekend to celebrate like we never have before.
Celebrate 25 amazing years of Stepping Stones Museum for Children! The 25th Birthday Bash brings the magic of the circus to life with dazzling performances, exciting circus-themed activities and immersive opportunities to try your hand at circus skills. Plus, don't miss delicious food demos and other whimsical surprises around every corner! Join us for an evening of unforgettable family fun as we commemorate this milestone anniversary.
Get Your TicketsThis mesmerizing after-hours event will bring the wonder of the circus to an adult audience. Featuring food, drink and a variety of performances in the big tent, The Kaleidoscope Circus Celebration and Fundraising Event invites our community of founders, sponsors, donors, members and champions to come together in celebration of the museum’s storied 25-year history and raise funds to support the bright future of Stepping Stones.
Founded in 2006, our first Healthyville exhibit engaged a generation of children and families in building healthy lifestyles. Our second Healthyville exhibit, a traveling version, launched in 2014 and introduced children to important lessons about nutrition, fitness and their overall well-being in a fun, play-based manner. Healthyville, U.S.A. presents a new perspective on wellness by focusing on a healthy community as an integral part of our lives. With a lovable cast of characters led by the intrepid LucySomebody, the upcoming Healthyville, U.S.A. exhibit will help children explore how to enhance their community and help it thrive.
We are always looking for passionate and dedicated adult volunteers to join our team!
With a one-time gift or 25-month recurring donation.
Best Friend
$2,500 – $4,999
Soul Mate
$1,000 – $2,499
Kindred Spirit
$500 – $999
Confidant
$100 – $499
Companion
$25 – $99
Our community partners and sponsors are important contributors to the museum’s mission. From sharing ideas, expertise and time to providing the monetary means for us to expand services and experiences for children and families in need, your contribution counts!
Become a SponsorWith our 25th birthday on tap next year, 2025 promises to be a special year at Stepping Stones Museum for Children. Don’t miss a moment of the milestone action.
Become A memberIndividuals, businesses and corporate entities who contribute major gifts of more than $15,000 will be recognized as “Silver Anniversary Leaders Circle” supporters and gain opportunities for impactful, customized collaboration throughout our 25th year and beyond, including inclusion on a highly-visible museum plaque to be permanently displayed, a special 25th birthday web page and in the 2025 annual report.
Join the Forever FriendNearly 25 years ago, our founders envisioned a place to inspire a generation of lifelong learners. Today, it’s up to us to ensure future generations have the same opportunity.
As we approach our 25th year, Stepping Stones needs generous supporters like YOU to help bridge the gap between income and expenses and ensure a future for joyful learning through play.
Stepping Stones Museum for Children is a non-profit 501(c)3 institution. From programs and exhibits to staff and facilities, it costs us about $15 more than the price of admissiosupport every visit and field trip to Stepping Stones. We must raise funds each year to support more than half of our annual expenses. The museum relies on the generosity of people like you to keep our programs running. Please give today!