The Building for Kids Children's Museum [BFKCM] is expanding its impact in the Fox Valley with the launch of Launchpad Playful Preschool, a new preschool program opening in downtown Appleton on October 5, 2026.
Powered by the BFKCM, Launchpad Playful Preschool builds on more than three decades of experience creating hands-on, play-based learning experiences for children and families throughout the community. The new preschool will focus on open-ended, child-directed play to help children build critical cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and creative skills.
“Launchpad was built with the understanding that play isn’t a break from learning but the foundation of it,” said Kathy Dean, Director of Early Childhood Engagement at the BFKCM. “Children learn best when they are engaged, curious, and empowered to explore the world around them, and Launchpad was intentionally designed to support that kind of learning every day.”
Located on the third floor of First 5 Fox Valley's Family Resource Center just across the street from the BFKCM, Launchpad offers a playful environment that encourages children to follow their interests, ask questions, solve problems, and learn through meaningful experiences. The preschool's location also provides easy access to the museum, creating even more opportunities for hands-on exploration.
Launchpad will serve children ages 3 to 5, and offers flexible scheduling, including two, three, or five day per week options. Each day includes 2.5 hours of play-based learning and care.
"We're incredibly excited to welcome our first class of Launchpad learners this fall," said Oliver Zornow, President of the BFKCM. "This program represents an exciting new chapter for the Building for Kids and a significant investment in the future of children and families throughout the Fox Valley."
About the BFKCM
The BFKCM has been inspiring discovery and building resilience through intergenerational play-based learning and exploration of the arts, sciences, and humanities since 1992. For more information about the BFKCM, including its programs and events, visit
www.buildingforkids.org.
