Synopsis: "'O' is for Oranges" is an experiential immersion exhibit that traces the life of an orange - commencing with its inauspicious beginning as a seed and culminating with the various possibilities for its commercial consumption. The exhibit is designed for young children and participating adults to uncover and learn science and math concepts in a thematic play environment.

Size: 2,700 square feet

Location: West Wing, Kids in Charge gallery

Highlights:

• Tree House and Observation Deck. Preschoolers can peer through a periscope or look through special "bug-eye" binoculars to see the entire grove from different perspectives. They can slide down the fireman's pole in the center of the observation deck to get to the hidden tunnels beneath the tree house.
• Delivery Truck. As driver, mechanic, loader, navigator and passenger, kids can manipulate simple machines and experience the physics of motion.
• Juice Factory. Properties of liquids are explored with various objects to create dams, divert water flows, and build pipelines.
• Publix Super Market. As a manager, checkout clerk, or a consumer, kids can choose to stock shelves, sort and count, weigh fruit, and identify which items are made with citrus products.
• Florida Grove House. Dramatic play using costumes, kitchen experiments, scratch and sniff fruits, a cultural exchange telephone, and nutrition games help show how oranges are used in the home.
• Toddler Play Garden. A make-believe garden tailored for infants and toddlers teaches about colors, shapes, and textures.
  

Major donors:

Publix Super Markets Charities
Publix Super Markets
The Minute Maid Company
Coca-Cola Foundation
Thyssen Miami Elevator