CEO CORNER

November invites us to pause and reflect on what we’re thankful for: family, friends, and the moments that bring us joy. Yet, this season of gratitude can also stir up memories of those we’ve lost, especially for children learning to navigate grief.

That’s why it’s meaningful that November is National Children’s Grief Awareness Month. At Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, we see joy in every laugh and smile, but we also recognize that some of our young visitors carry invisible heartache.

This month, CMON joins children’s museums nationwide in the Healing Through Play initiative, an effort close to our hearts. CMON itself was born from loss; the museum was founded in memory of Bianca Loos, whose passing inspired her family to create a space of learning, laughter, and love.

Throughout November, we’re helping families explore healthy ways to cope with grief. We’ve added new books in our library to support open conversations about loss, and we’re partnering with Valerie’s House for a special Parent Cafe focused on guiding children through emotional healing.

As always, our museum remains a welcoming space where families can experience joy, even in difficult times. We hope this season brings gratitude and connection, and for those facing loss, may CMON offer comfort and hope.

Sincerely,
Jon Foerster, CMON CEO

What We’ve Been Up To at CMON!

Our adjusted fall hours have come to an end! While we were closed, the CMON team was busy sprucing things up both inside and out! We’ve been refreshing and painting throughout the building, installing exciting new exhibits, and tackling plenty of deep cleaning along the way. Thank you for your patience as we worked through our long to-do list to make CMON better than ever!

CMON Trolley – NOW OPEN!

Climb into the driver’s seat and get ready to roll through the Sunshine State! Spin the wheel, flash the turn signals, and keep an eye on your gauges as you steer your trolley full of happy passengers on an exciting Florida adventure.

Along the way, your riders will spot postcards and pictures of Naples’ favorite places — plus famous landmarks from all across the state.

Then, make a stop at the Florida Train Table — a bright and accessible hands-on map shaped like Florida. Drive your trains and build your tracks from Miami’s sandy beaches to the top of the Panhandle and everywhere in between as you discover what makes Florida shine! And don’t forget to visit CMON on your route through Southwest Florida!

This lively exhibit combines imagination, geography, and play for one unforgettable ride through our amazing state.

CMON extends heartfelt thanks to STOCK Development for joining us as this year’s Title Sponsor of Backyard Bash. Your generous support helps us inspire curiosity and discovery for all children and families. Together, we’re advancing our Access for All initiative to ensure every child can learn and play in an inclusive environment.

EVENTS YOU CAN’T MISS

Parent Cafe: Supporting Families Through Grief

Join CMON and Valerie’s House for a special Parent Cafe on November 3 from 12:30 – 1:30 PM focused on helping parents support grieving children.
The session includes a brief presentation on local grief resources and an open discussion for parents to connect and share.
While parents talk, CMON’s Education Team will engage children in activities nearby—keeping families together in a caring, supportive space.
Learn More

Step into the magic of winter in the city at CMON’s Holiday Market & Sockefeller Skating Party Friday, November 14 from 5:30 – 7:30 PM!

Celebrate the season with festive cheer, seasonal shopping, and joyful skating—centered around our newest exhibit, Sockefeller Center.

*Museum admission is required to attend; FREE to CMON Members.
RSVP Here

Join us for a mini edition of Mahjong at the Museum: Mini Mahjong Beginners Experience on December 3 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm!

This early evening event is designed to give you and your young one a chance to learn how to play a new favorite game with careful instruction from SWFL Mahjong Instructors. Grown-ups are invited and encouraged to play alongside their child.
Purchase Tickets Here

Jingle Bell Bash presented by Gulf Church

Step into a night of big city magic right here at CMON on Friday, December 5!

We’re bringing the sparkle, charm, and cheer of New York’s Rockefeller Center to Naples—with a CMON twist! Celebrate with wintery fun, festive music, photos with Santa, and friends from across the community.
Purchase Tickets Here

Join us for a merry evening of creativity and cheer at CMON After Dark: Holiday Craft Night! This festive, adults-only (21+) event offers hands-on holiday fun with a variety of seasonal DIY stations.

Tickets: $15 online/ $20 at the door

Registration includes admission to the event, one drink ticket, and light appetizers. Event is 21+ only and open to the public.
Purchase Tickets Here

SHOP & SUPPORT

A heartfelt thank you to Entech for generously sponsoring all Collier County Title I field trips!
Your support is sparking curiosity and opening doors for the next generation of learners.