Nonprofit Spotlight

Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu)

February 12, 2025 - Around West Sound, Blog, Featured - Comments: 
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Nonprofit Spotlight

Washington state is gifted with almost 45,000 registered and legit not-for-profit organizations. Their missions are wide ranging, but all attempt to address a significant community need, often relying completely on donor funding and an active cadre of community volunteers to do so.

For many residents, the nonprofit world can seem like a confusing, amorphous bag of missions, volunteers, fundraising, staff and activities, often seeming to overlap. But these groups provide or supplement essential and usually underfunded resources, direct services and programs that address critical community needs, bringing added value their service areas and hope to those who need it most.

Nonprofit Spotlight provides a snapshot for you as readers, residents, potential volunteers, donors and clients with the basics, the info you need to make an educated decision on whether to support or participate. These are often community-based organizations, so you can bet that both will be highly valued and greatly appreciated. Check them out, ask questions, stop by, call or email for further info. They’ll be delighted to hear from you!

This month:

Kids Discovery Museum

According to its mission statement, “KiDiMu is a hub for early childhood development, creating experiences centered on playful learning that supports the broader community and children’s current and emerging needs.”

“At the heart of our mission is the belief that early childhood development thrives in a space where families can learn, play and connect together,” says Kristyn Long, board chair. “Our museum was founded on the idea that these shared experiences lay the foundation for a strong sense of community identity. Through interactive, hands-on and multisensory learning opportunities, we help children make sense of the world around them, encouraging critical thinking and creativity.

KiDiMu“As a gathering space, we welcome families from all backgrounds, bridging generational and cultural divides. By offering fun, inclusive experiences that spark curiosity and conversation, we create an environment where diverse perspectives are shared and relationships are built.

Key Programs

MiniMu: A free enrichment program designed for infants, toddlers and their grown-ups to learn through play. This interactive session encourages early childhood development through hands-on activities in a fun and supportive environment.

KiDiMuExplore Bainbridge — “All Island Adventure” and “Walkable Winslow”: Invite families to discover the island’s most beloved destinations and historic sites through engaging STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) activities. These two thoughtfully designed books guide children and their families on an exploration of the island’s diverse locations while practicing essential learning skills.

Garden Walks at Bloedel: Experience the beauty of Bloedel Reserve through a guided nature walk designed to inspire your child’s sense of wonder.

KiDiMuKiDiMu Summer Camps: Camps for ages 3-6, running from 9 a.m to noon at the museum. Campers must be potty trained.

Preschool at KidiMu: A vibrant and inclusive program for preschoolers ages 3 – 5.5. The multiage classroom fosters empathy and understanding while educating each child at their own pace. The Kids Discovery Museum is the classroom, allowing for lots of engaging spaces for children to explore.

Field Trips to KidiMu: Specially organized trips to KiDiMu provide schools, clubs and organizations a cost-reduced chance to explore exhibits hands-on, making learning both educational and enjoyable.

Major Events

Sing Along & Sounds: A Very Musical Day: An annual event offered in conjunction with the Bainbridge Community Piano Association

Sippy Cup Socials: An exclusive opportunity to join KiDiMu for fun, family-friendly Sippy Cup Socials hosted throughout the year. These events are typically at KiDiMu and offer a great chance to socialize and enjoy activities with other families.

KiDiMuOther events:

  • Fam Jam (details TBA)
  • First Friday Art Walk (monthly event)
  • Camp Wonder Auction (dates TBA)

Location: 301 Ravine Lane NE, Bainbridge Island

Phone: 206-855-4650

Email: lisa@kidimu.org

This Nonprofit Spotlight column is designed to inform you about our community’s highly respected 501(c)3 organizations. We highly recommend potential clients, volunteers and donors access further information via the organization’s own website or via independent watch groups like GuideStar, Charity Navigator, GreatNonprofits or Charity Watch, all available online. For an updated list of nonprofits in our community, check out these links provided by community foundations in Kitsap and Jefferson counties.