Play encourages team building at DuPage Children's Museum

An interview with Hiroki Ogawa, visitor services and rentals manager of DuPage Children's Museum.

Q: Tell us about the history of the venue.

A: What once was known as the local lumber yard and hardware store was transformed into the vibrant and bustling DuPage Children's Museum in 2001. In 2015 the Museum was re-imagined with a whimsically sophisticated design. Just steps from the BNSF Metra line and right down the street from downtown Naperville shopping and dining, the museum's location can't be beat.

Q: What do you offer when it comes to corporate meetings?

A: The museum offers flexible, creative meeting areas from large open spaces to smaller, more intimate breakout rooms. We can host meetings and events that range in size from 5 to 500 people. Our interactive exhibits are perfect for team building or just for fun.

Q: Describe the atmosphere.

A: DuPage Children's Museum has a unique atmosphere that inspires curiosity, creativity and innovation. It's a great escape from the everyday.

Q: What are people in your industry talking about?

A: The power of play is always a hot topic. So is finding the unusual, creative, inspiring venue for weddings, parties and celebrations. Play has a major role in building creative, curious and healthier children with 21st century skills. The same things that make play so beneficial to children can be applied to adults as well, encouraging discovery, creativity, problem solving, team building and just plain fun. Imagine your next corporate, family, or organization event in the most playful space ever.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

A: I'm a 30-something who knows how to embrace my inner child, and bring out the inner child of those around me. I have been introducing the unique opportunities offered by events at DuPage Children's Museum to families, corporations, clubs and organization for seven years. I love working to create one-of-a-kind experiences that incorporated the individual needs of each client. I pride myself on creating memorable events for everyone from birthday party guests to corporations who choose to rent the entire museum.

Q: Tell us one interesting fact about the business that most people may not know.

A: I think many people know, but might not admit ... Adults have just as much (if not more) fun as the kids at the museum. You don't need be a child to enjoy the exhibits.