Pottstown Children's Discovery Center

History

Pottstown Children’s Discovery Center began with a simple idea: create a place in Pottstown where children could learn through hands-on, interactive play. Inspired by watching her grandchildren become engaged and excited through discovery-based learning, founder Beth began sharing the idea with others. The response was immediate: Pottstown families needed and deserved a children’s museum close to home.

With support from a local planning grant, Beth attended an Association of Children’s Museums conference and returned ready to move the idea forward. A group of community supporters came together, and PCDC began appearing at local events, offering children’s activities and building excitement throughout Pottstown. The organization became official, received nonprofit status, formed a board, and began raising funds, planning exhibits, and building community partnerships.

Early supporters helped bring the vision to life, including Dana Corp in Pottstown, which donated the much-loved Big Blue Blocks. PCDC also launched programs and events such as New Year’s celebrations, Dr. Seuss-themed activities, STEM events, and community pop-ups.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted in-person programming in March 2020, PCDC adapted by creating Discovery Kits, providing hundreds of children with supplies for creative learning at home. During this time, PCDC also developed an important partnership with Montgomery County Community College, helping secure a permanent home for the center.

Today, Pottstown Children’s Discovery Center continues its mission to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning through hands-on experiences for children and families.