Science Museum's new Children's Gallery and "Miffy and the Ocean" exhibition to open this Friday (with photos)
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     To tie in with the opening of the Hong Kong Science Museum's new Children's Gallery on Friday (April 7), a special exhibition entitled "Miffy and the Ocean" will be launched the same day and will run until October 11. Through a group of interactive exhibits and video programmes, the exhibition will provide a unique and fun learning experience for children, as well as raising their awareness of protecting the ocean.

     Speaking at the opening ceremony today (April 5), the Under Secretary for Home Affairs, Ms Florence Hui, said playing, which is a key element of the Children's Gallery, should be an integral part of children's everyday experience. She added that playing not only brings pleasure to children, but also contributes significantly to their health and development. She noted that playing helps to enhance children's creativity and imagination, promotes physical and emotional development, and builds their social and cognitive skills. She expressed the hope that the well-designed gallery will make a great place for children to play and learn, and will make a good impression on visitors.

     Ms Hui extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, the Netherlands Consulate General in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) and Macao SAR, Universcience in France, Globe Creative Limited and Mercis bv for their strong support.

     Other officiating guests included the Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mr Eric Berti; the Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Hong Kong, Ms Annemieke Ruigrok; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Ms Michelle Li; the President of Universcience in France, Mr Bruno Maquart; the Director of Globe Creative Limited, Ms Karen Chang; the Business Development Manager of Mercis bv, Mr Frank Padberg; and the Museum Director of the Hong Kong Science Museum, Ms Karen Sit.

     The new gallery's 10 major exhibits were made by Universcience in France. They were carefully developed with advice from educators and other professionals and in collaboration with various artists, who helped to enhance the aesthetic appeal and educational value of the exhibits. They are designed for two groups of children - those aged 2 to 7 and those aged 5 to 12 - based on their physical, intellectual and emotional development. Highlight exhibits include "Big Kids' Worksite", "Time Tower" and "Hidden Animals". The exhibits encourage children not only to use their imagination, but also to co-operate and accomplish missions together. The Children’s Gallery will be open all year round.
 
     For details, please call 2732 3232 for enquiries.

Ends/Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:30

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