Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) · Ages 12–24 months
The Smithsonian,
for the very young.
Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) is a part-time enrichment experience designed specifically for toddlers and their caregivers, exploring the Smithsonian together through play, observation, and genuine discovery.
About the Cohort
Designed for this stage.
The Smithsonian Early Explorers (SEE) cohort is a part-time program for children ages 12 to 24 months and the caregivers who know them best. Cohort 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 an incomparable environment for all of this, 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 announced each cohort season. Contact us for current availability.
Setting
Smithsonian galleries
Sessions take place within Smithsonian Institution museums, a setting available to no other toddler program in the world.
"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."
Cohort Caregiver
Smithsonian Early Explorers participant
Join the Cohort
Space in each cohort is limited.
Contact us to learn about current openings and upcoming session dates.