The Department of Curious Things
The Department of Curious Things is a creative brand founded by Anna Skates that creates bold, wonder-filled spaces where children are seen, heard, and empowered to explore their creativity, engage with the world, and be fully themselves. Through immersive storytelling experiences, book clubs, camps, resources, and family-centered programming, the organization celebrates children’s voices, imagination, and capacity while encouraging communities to recognize kids as active collaborators in building a better world. Its mission is rooted in advocacy, curiosity, and the belief that children are not just the future—they are a vital part of the present.
The Department of Curious Things offers a wide range of creative, literacy-focused experiences designed to spark curiosity, celebrate imagination, and empower children through storytelling and hands-on exploration. From immersive camps and book clubs to mobile creative programming, community events, and advocacy initiatives, each offering is thoughtfully created to help children build confidence, express themselves, and discover the joy of learning through wonder.
Some of the current offerings from The Department of Curious Things include:
- The Field Unit (Mobile Creative Studio)
- Big Little Stories Camp
- Kid Book Clubs
- Story Time with Miss Anna
- The Story Booth
- Creativity & Literacy Programming
- School Programs
- After School Programs
- Birthday Parties
- Community Pop-Up Events
- Seasonal Programs & Special Events
