Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) · Ages 12–24 months
The Smithsonian,
for the very young.
Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) is SEEC's part-time toddler program for children ages 12–24 months and their caregivers. Together they explore the Smithsonian through play, observation, and genuine discovery.
About Early Explorers
Designed for this stage.
Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) is SEEC's part-time toddler program for children ages 12–24 months and the caregivers who know them best. Sessions meet regularly in the galleries of the Smithsonian, led by SEEC educators who specialize in this uniquely rich developmental window.
Toddlers at this age are voracious learners: absorbing language, building physical confidence, discovering cause and effect, and forming the earliest social relationships. The Smithsonian's galleries offer a remarkable environment for all of it, filled with objects and specimens that are real, fascinating, and endlessly varied.
Caregivers participate alongside children, supported by SEEC educators who help adults see the learning that's happening and understand how to extend it at home.
Program Details
What to expect.
Ages
12–24 months
Children and their primary caregivers attend together.
Schedule
Part-time sessions
Meeting days and times are announced each program season. Contact us for current availability.
Setting
Smithsonian galleries
Sessions meet inside the Smithsonian museums themselves: the same galleries that serve as the school's everyday classrooms.
"I came expecting a playgroup. What I found was an approach to toddler learning that I carry with me every single day, a way of slowing down and noticing alongside my child."
Early Explorers Caregiver
Smithsonian Early Explorers participant
Join Early Explorers
Space in Early Explorers is limited.
Contact us to learn about current openings and upcoming session dates.