After a two-year closure, Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys (DMMDT) is in a phased reopening of its new 13,000-square-foot Lakewood location. Visiting families will see more objects of fun on display, new classroom and community spaces, better parking, and improved ADA accommodations. Curious kids can also view behind-the-scenes YouTube videos online introducing various pieces from the museum’s 20,000-piece collection. Or, beginning this month, send Mom or Dad to nab one of the monthly workshop kits, available with curbside pick-up. Watch for upcoming homeschool programming. DMMDT is currently open three days a week (reserve tickets online). dmmdt.org
Look closely at the Somewhere in Time miniature village (shown above), on display at the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys. While everything seems normal, the keen-eyed kid viewing the whole scene will find all sorts of mishaps and misdeeds like paint spilling, a cat knocking over a vase, or a kite dangerously close to a power line.
The Science of Tiny
Studies have been conducted exploring why we are drawn to miniatures and “cute” things. They have shown that, in addition to being non-threatening and taking us back to childhood, the detail of tiny items actually stimulates the sensory-seeking part of our brain. According to MentalFloss.com, miniature scenarios also give people a sense of control and escape from reality. Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the famous sex therapist, media personality, and Holocaust survivor, used dollhouse therapy to help children (and herself) work through serious issues.
