Nestled in the nation's capital, in the richest museum complex in the world, is the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (SEEC), an early childhood demonstration school that places children at the center of every experience. The vast collections of the Smithsonian are the foundation for the culturally diverse curriculum, which offers a rare opportunity for learning. The children at SEEC learn about their world in an educational setting that is unparalleled. They are introduced to new ideas through personal conversations with scientists, artists, and cultural historians who share their passion for learning in concrete, engaging ways. SEEC children learn about the era of dinosaurs through personal encounters with paleontologists where they are able to see the tools used to examine the past. Kindergartners become ‘scientists’ in a visit to the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center where they explore nature intimately, make observations, test hypotheses, and discuss ideas with an entomologist. Throughout the year, SEEC children become familiar with people and cultures from around the world through the wondrous collections of the Smithsonian Institution and the various places around the DC community.