Museum of Discovery and Science to Launch New Early Childhood Exhibit 

Preparations are underway at the Museum of Discovery & Science (MODS) in Fort Lauderdale for a new early childhood experience. The Discovery Center exhibit gallery presented by JM Family Enterprises will open this summer to help the young participants develop a passion for science. 

“Our newest permanent exhibit gallery is blooming at MODS! The Discovery Spot will encourage hands-on, creative play that is so important to the cognitive development of our children,” Joseph P. Cox says, president and CEO of MODS. “Early childhood education is in our DNA, dating back to our beginning in 1976 as the Discovery Center. The new Discovery Spot will allow our community’s youngest scientists to take their very first steps in science.”

In the Discovery Spot exhibitchildren ages 0 to 6 can splash, climb, tinker and explore. This gallery encourages young guests to make discoveries through experiences in the freshly reimagined and beloved Citrus Grove, Ocean to Air and Everglades areas.’ The new Discovery Spot will encourage playful exploration and STEM experiences leading to lifelong learning for all families and will cover 4,000 square feet of Museum space. It offers numerous opportunities for adult-child collaboration in zones packed with one-of-a-kind experiences, including Sketch & Release, where guests can bring Florida native fish and sharks to life by digitally painting their chosen species and then releasing them into a digital ocean. 

During the construction phase, MODS will provide continuity of early childhood experiences through its Sprouting STEM Early Childhood Learning Lab powered by PNC Grow Up Great, located on the second floor of the Museum, as well as exciting exhibits Wild Kratts: Creature Power! from January 20 through May 7, followed by Expedition: Dinosaur, from May 19 to September 4, in the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Traveling Exhibit Gallery.

“JM Family has been supporting the Museum of Discovery and Science since 1993 because we feel that what they do is a valuable part of our community,” Josh Bass says, VP of innovation for JM Family Enterprises and MODS board member. “Bass also adds that “promoting education is one of JM Family’s strategic areas of giving, and this new STEM exhibit will increase the opportunities for discovery and interactive experiences for the Museum’s guests of all ages.”

For more information about the Museum, please visit mods.org or call 954.467.MODS (6637).

You May Also Like
Three women stand outdoors, smiling and holding copies of the book "Rulebreaker" at a Big Ideas event. They are dressed in colorful, patterned dresses, with greenery and a modern building in the background. Lifestyle
Books, Bites, and Big Ideas
February 12, 2026
A male lion mounts a female lioness on green grass, biting the back of her neck during mating. Both lions are focused, with the male on top and the female lying on the ground. Rocks and scattered leaves are in the background. Lifestyle
Wild Love
February 11, 2026
A hand with manicured nails holds a glass of champagne next to an open bottle, set against a bright red curtain—capturing the glamour and intrigue found Behind the Red Door. Lifestyle
Behind the Red Door
January 30, 2026
Abstract digital art with swirling blue, white, and yellow light patterns on a dark background, reminiscent of an immersive visual installation at the IGNITE Broward festival. Lifestyle
IGNITE Broward Returns
January 30, 2026
Valentine’s in Fort Lauderdale

Where to Book, Dine, and Indulge

Read More
A romantic Valentine’s beach at sunset in Fort Lauderdale with a heart of rose petals in the sand, two champagne glasses, red roses, a gift box, city buildings, and a heart-shaped cloud. Text reads "Happy Valentine's Day!. Lifestyle
The Quiet Distance Between the Sheets

Inside the emotional and erotic recalibration few couples are taught to expect.

Read More
Your South Florida Holiday Break Guide

Your Guide to Where to Go, What to Eat, and How to Celebrate Over the Holiday Break.

Read More
A hand holds a Bloody Mary cocktail garnished with bacon, celery, rosemary, and an olive—an ideal sip for your South Florida holiday break—set against a blurred outdoor background. Lifestyle
From Bustles to Bikinis: The Great Beachwear Strip-Down

Fort Lauderdale’s beach scene wasn’t always sun-kissed skin and skimpy suits.

Read More
Other Posts
Las Olas Trees at the Center of a Growing Debate

A postponed vote has intensified the divide between preservation and progress along Fort Lauderdale’s most recognizable boulevard.

Read More
A sunny boulevard lined with palm trees and lush greenery, where cars drive by and people—including 2025’s Men of Influence and Women of Influence—dine at outdoor cafes on the sidewalk under colorful umbrellas. Lifestyle
Postcards From the Past

Artist and developer Abby Laughlin transforms a vintage space into a gallery celebrating Fort Lauderdale’s fading mid-century charm.

Read More
Guy Harvey Foundation

Inspiring the Next Wave of Ocean Conservationists in Florida and Beyond.

Read More
The Real: Harbor Beach

This estate features 300+/- feet of waterfront with spectacular views.

Read More