CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A new exhibit at Charleston’s Clay Center allows children to participate in activities that reflect how people live and work in a community.
“My Town” opened to the public Saturday.
Morgan Robinson, communications director at the Clay Center, said the exhibit teaches kids about different careers.
“It gives kids a wonderful opportunity to try on different hats both literally and figuratively in trying our different careers, different career paths, doing dome hands on learning activities and really just having a whole lot of fun,” Robinson said.
The 5,500 square foot exhibit opened alongside the new Ashton’s Climbing Sculpture.
“I think they add a huge level to the Clay Center experience,” Robinson said of both exhibits located at the center of the building.
“My Town” includes a diner, vet clinic, emergency center, grocery store, medical clinic, car repair center, theater, bank and more. The gold dome of the West Virginia State Capitol sits at the entrance. The governor’s desk is also near the front of the exhibit.
Robinson said these can teach several things for kids of all ages.
“It can teach basic math skills, money management, career work, hands on skills like mechanics, changing tires,” she said. “It can really open up your mind to different possibilities of serving as governor — how bills become laws.”
Waverly Elementary students from Wood County were the first to explore “My Town” on Wednesday during a special preview.
Admission prices are $9 for adults and $7.50 for children and seniors.