Miriam P. Brenner Children's Museum — Attraction in Greensboro

Disappointed and Concerned

Our family purchased a year-long membership to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum about six months ago, hoping it would be a fun and safe environment for our three kids (ages 10, 6, and 3). We've visited several times, but unfortunately, we’ve gotten sick after nearly every visit. While we understand that places like this naturally involve a lot of hands-on interaction and shared spaces, it’s been a consistent pattern that made us cautious.

However, what ultimately led us to cancel future visits was something much more troubling. On our most recent trip, we were deeply disappointed to find that the children’s books in the reading corner were promoting themes of gender identity and sexuality — specifically a book titled "Jacob's New Dress." This kind of content, especially in a children’s play environment, feels inappropriate and out of place. Our kids are here to play, learn, and explore, not to be introduced to topics that are complex, controversial, and—frankly—not age-appropriate.

To make matters worse, an announcement was made over the speaker system: “In honor of Pride Month, we’ll be doing a rainbow-themed science experiment.” I was stunned. Why am I being forced into a conversation with my kids about sexuality and identity before they even understand what any of that means? Because I took them to a children’s museum?

We recognize the museum’s desire to reflect the diversity of the broader community, but it feels like families who hold more traditional values are not equally represented or respected. Inclusion shouldn’t mean the exclusion or silencing of others with different beliefs. It was heartbreaking to tell my 3-year-old son that I couldn’t read him any of the books that were displayed because of our personal values — especially in a space that’s supposed to bring families together.

We won’t be returning. That said, I’m not writing this to tell people to avoid the museum altogether. I’m saying: pay attention. Don’t assume that just because a place is designed for children that it automatically has your child’s best interest in mind. Look around. Take note of the activities, the decor, and the books on display. You might find yourself put in a position to have a conversation with your kids that neither of you are ready to have — all because of a visit to what should be a neutral, imaginative space for...

The concept is there and great. The way they talk to and react to people is unacceptable. There is an employee there who aggressively approached my 2 girls that are 9 year and told them that they needed to be with their parents at all times. We were in the same section of the museum as them along with our 3 boys that are 9 years old. Were my kids destroying anything? NO. Were my kids fighting or bullying? NO. My kids had bottles of water (allowed per museum website) that were still factory sealed because they hadn't drank any. The employee named Andy felt she could take their water and then come and berate my husband and I. The kids are 9! They don't need me to carry their water. I asked at the front desk even and was told I didn't need to carry my purse. They're 9 so I no longer need a diaper bag for 5 kids. No apologies were given by that employee. Instead management and the CEO/President Joe said, "That is how you received the message" and "You received the message wrong." No, I have video showing how this employee acted. I have video of employees agreeing my kids were behaving, didn't break any policies, and that she needed to be trained. She should not be working around children or the public. She also should be trained in how to approach and apologize. This was our first and last visit and I am sharing this because I don't trust Andy around children. She is detrimental to their emotional well-being. I posted a picture of her as a warning and of my kids playing when she...

It took awhile for us to finally check this place out between Covid lockdowns, remodels, and life in general. Glad to say we've been able to check it off the list!

Pricing was comparable to the NIDO & MARIANA QUBEIN in High Point minus the carousel, though it offered real life vehicles like semi trucks and an airplane to hop in and tour. This was especially exciting for the kids who don't often get to have this sort of close up interaction with airplanes other than flights that are few and far between. Not to mention the escape slide is an adorable touch for kids to play with.

A toddler section offered a safe and wide range of toys and obstacles to climb on with shoe covers required. These are provided for free. I appreciate the priority to cleanliness especially because the section rules state it's only for 2 and under. Those kiddos are close and personal with the floor!

Other notable areas include the water exploration station, immersive projection room, and career stations. The giant geometrical jungle gym outside is impressive as well.

All in all this is a staple to the community and I would definitely recommend. For us, NIDO & MARIANA QUBEIN is closer and has more to offer in my opinion. At least as far as play areas go, the size of each, the amount of interactive spaces for broader age ranges, yet maintaining accessibility for all interests and...