Parents and children can enjoy all these tantalizing experiences too, by visiting the museum, as well as learning the science behind every exhibit.

Judi Miller, a native Midwesterner who holds degrees in art and behavioral science, can’t help but be effusive about her job as associate executive director at the museum. Noting that today’s children are frequently parked behind a computer or in front of a video game, she says she is delighted to offer a different experience: more than 50 hands-on fun and learning exhibits. Children (and their parents) can ponder the diffusion of light at the "Strobe Fan," discover how to use their own strength at the "Pull Yourself Up" pulley, experience a spatial puzzle at the "Rope Maze" and try different “jobs” at the pretend pizza parlor or popular grocery store, complete with scaled-down shopping carts, faux groceries and a checkout counter where kids can practice important sorting, counting, and decision-making skills.

"It's so great to see parents experimenting right along with their children," said Miller, "I really enjoy seeing families coming together at our facility."

Miller pointed out the museum's several dimensions, including the "Grandma’s Attic" where children will find a collection of things a family might keep such as old paintings, worn furniture, and toys and boxes of photos. Objects from different cultures help the children literally put themselves in the "shoes" and "clothes" of others.

Miller reminisced about her own grandmother's attic and of the treasures she would find there, "I'm glad the design team included this feature in the museum. It's important to look at the past as well as the future, and this exhibit gives the kids that opportunity."

In cooperation with Animal Samaritans, SPCA, a local nonprofit animal shelter, children can experience being a veterinarian, learn about the pet adoption process and also pretend to treat a cuddly stuffed animal. The exhibit also presents the responsible side of pet ownership. While I was there, a small girl with curly blonde hair gently "examined" a pretend puppy and carefully wrote down his "complaints" on a paper.

Children may have a friend who is handicapped or disabled. At the Wheel Chair Racing exhibit, children can put themselves through the paces a physically challenged child faces every day. They will expend energy, practice gross and fine motor skills, and learn what it is like to rely on other parts of their senses or bodies. They will understand the physical challenge of being dependent on tools and other muscle groups for transport.

The Art Corner tables feature something new every week. Children can even paint a car. The museum has its very own VW Bug that is just waiting for additions to its already colorful exterior. Children put on a smock and booties and join the fun. Also, they can add their own interpretation to the ongoing winding tapestry that hangs above the museum's southern wall. The giant loom awaits their touch.

The museum features an outdoor area perfect for picnicking and playing. Parents are encouraged to bring a lunch and enjoy the wide-open spaces of the rolling lawn. In addition, there area classes, workshops, birthday packages, camps for kids and special events that happen throughout the year.

For more Allen Lawrence photos of Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert, click here.

For more about the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert, click here.