The Museum of Childhood (MOC) was founded in 1981 by a group of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers.

It is the first museum of its kind in North America, intended to attract not only children, but anyone who has ever been a child.

The museum will combine the play-based learning of a children's museum with the historical and educational richness of an extensive collection of artefacts, celebrating childhood in its manifold expressions in the many cultures of the world, and across generations.

- MOC is a registered charitable organisation based in Toronto, Canada.

- It has over 100 active members and a team of 30 volunteers who work on fundraising, outreach and special events.

- The museum publishes a quarterly newsletter, which is distributed to approximately 400 people.

- Since its founding over 15 years ago, MOC has maintained an active outreach program that has presented dozens of educational talks, temporary and circulating exhibitions across Metro Toronto.

- The permanent collection of toys, clothing, furniture, books and other articles relating to childhood numbers over 2000 items, with

examples of Victoriana, rare Disney characters, international dolls, antique teddy bears, tea sets, doll houses, and pop culture toys and novelties.

- The collection will form the basis for a museum unlike any other that currently exists in Canada - an interactive, hands-on museum where kids of all ages can explore childhood.

- In 1995, the museum was given a permanent home on the historic Gooderham & Worts site in downtown Toronto. A capital campaign was begun the following year to raise three million dollars for the establishment and maintenance of the museum.

- The museum opened an exhibit at the Canadian Broadcast Centre in conjunction with the CBC Museum. It will be moved to the Museum of Civilisation in Ottawa when this exhibition closes at the Toronto location.

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