The Grand Rapids Children's Museum is two floors of hands-on interactive exhibits and daily drop-in programs that encourage discovery and learning through play. Founded in 1992 by four community members, GRCM began as a "museum without walls" until overwhelming community support inspired the board of directors to begin searching for a permanent home. In February of 1994, GRCM received its current building in downtown Grand Rapids as a gift. In July of 1997 it opened the doors to its new home. The philosophy of GRCM is based on the principle that children learn best when they direct their own learning. GRCM's programs are designed with the purpose of educating the whole child -- encompassing all subject areas as well as the individual learning styles of children preschool through elementary school age. GRCM's exhibits and programs consist of materials and activities that are participatory; and hands-on. GRCM's active learning approach encourages play and self-directed exploration in a supportive environment, enabling children to gain a positive sense of themselves as learners. To summarize, the Grand Rapids Children's Museum is an environment for play, advocates for the value of play, and builds minds through play.