National Children’s Museum and Embassy of Finland Present “The Finnish Formula: Play, Learn, Excel” on October 15, 2025

Event Showcases Finland’s Pioneering Approach to Informal, Play-Based Learning

WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 9, 2025) – National Children’s Museum, in partnership with the Embassy of Finland, proudly announces the second event in its President’s Circle series: “The Finnish Formula: Play, Learn, Excel.” This exclusive gathering will take place on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Embassy of Finland, 3301 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C.

The evening will spotlight Finland’s internationally acclaimed education system, renowned for cultivating excellence in science and academics through informal, play-based learning, and the intentional postponement of formal academic instruction. Through a riveting panel discussion and hands-on interactives, guests will explore the science, policy, and practical methods that underpin Finland’s extraordinary track record in childhood education with a particular focus on early education.

Distinguished Speakers
National Children’s Museum President and CEO Kiryn Hoffman will moderate the thought-provoking panel, with opening remarks by Her Excellency Leena-Kaisa Mikkola, Ambassador of Finland. Esteemed panelists include preeminent experts in early childhood education:

• Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, Professor of Psychology at Temple University and Child Development Expert
• Dr. Kati Sormunen, Faculty of Educational Sciences and lecturer in early childhood education at the University of Helsinki
• Dr. Iida Peltomaa, Chief Education Officer, Arctic Education
• Vannessa Speigle, International Education Consultant, CCE Finland

Throughout the evening, guests are invited to partake in interactive, hands-on activities curated by Museum educators, exemplifying the playful learning celebrated at the event.

Commitment to Long-Term Impact
National Children’s Museum is a nationally recognized cultural and educational institution dedicated to advancing STEAM learning for young children through the transformative power of play. By fostering dialogue between global education leaders, the Museum hopes to glean effective techniques in nurturing a child’s passion for learning, further influencing its programming and experience offerings. Beyond the Museum’s walls, the institution aims to utilize the event's outcomes to develop resources that encourage effective early education practices for both at-home and classroom learning in the community.

“The Finnish Formula: Play, Learn, Excel” is an invite-only event.

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About the President’s Circle

National Children’s Museum President’s Circle is an exclusive community of visionary leaders and passionate Museum advocates dedicated to promoting hands-on, play-based learning. With an annual membership of $1,000, members gain access to a series of engaging roundtable discussions, inspiring lectures, and engaging panels that explore critical issues shaping the future of education.

About National Children’s Museum

National Children’s Museum is a dynamic institution in the heart of Washington, D.C., that combines learning elements found in a science center with children’s museum experiences. Through play-based science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits and programs, the Museum sparks curiosity and ignites creativity for children under the age of twelve and their families. Founded in 1974, the Museum has served Washingtonians for five decades, and since reopening its new location in September 2021, the Museum has established itself as an international destination for play, welcoming more than 771,000 visitors across all eight wards, 50 states, and more than 75 countries. Learn more about how to visit the Museum and engage with virtual STEAM resources at nationalchildrensmuseum.org.