Louisiana Children’s Museum

Face of Play

Dr. Shannon Blady, Chief Learning Officer

Dr. Shannon Blady is an award-winning educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching and leading teachers. Her research interests include emergent literacy, children’s literature, early reading and writing instruction, creativity, comprehensive human development, and the Reggio Emilia Approach to childhood education. Throughout her leadership roles over the past 10 years, Dr. Blady has demonstrated a strong commitment to issues of access and equity. As Chief Learning Officer of Louisiana Children’s Museum and a proud sixth-generation New Orleanian, Dr. Blady is also committed to ensuring that all children in New Orleans receive a high-quality, well-rounded education infused with joy.

How is LCM involved in our community?
Parents, kids, and educators are invited free of charge to explore the Talk & Play Center and Parent/Teacher Resource Center. We also partner with local schools and organizations to offer our core outreach programs, Living with Water, Nola Readers 2.0, and Play Power, to foster child language, literacy, and play development.

We offer Museums for All as a way of opening access to more families: LCM offers general admission to the Museum for a minimal fee of $2 per person (for up to four people) with the presentation of a SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and a photo ID. We also offer Art for All: Louisiana residents enjoy FREE admission to the Louisiana Children’s Museum on the second Sunday of every other month.

What is special about New Orleans to LCM?
When the Louisiana Children’s Museum was founded in 1986, it had a singular focus on the lives and potential of our youngest citizens. That focus has remained steadfast through the years and still holds true today.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum contributes to the region’s future prosperity by engaging children’s potential and making that potential visible. Through play, shared explorations, and in-dialogue with adults, LCM connects children to each other, adults, their environments, and communities.

What products/services do you offer?
LCM is a big place – 8.5 acres and 56,000 square feet of “whoa, what is that?” to be exact.  

Is there a “best way” to walk through the museum?
There are a bajillion paths to take through LCM. Early learning moments happen on every floor and through every door. But the easiest way to plot a course is to choose the exhibits you want to see or the things you want to learn. Walk through the reeds or brush up on your reading. Learn the songs of this city or make your own music. The world is your oyster. 

What exhibits is the museum offering right now?
Exhibits include “Dig into Nature,” “Follow That Food,” “Make Your Mark,” “Move with the River,” “Play with Me,” and “Outdoor Adventures.”