Iranak Children’s Museum is a cultural institution affiliated with the Institute for Research on the History of Children’s Literature. Established on the foundation of twenty-five years of scholarly research in the fields of children’s literature history and childhood studies, the museum seeks to introduce visitors to the rich heritage of childhood culture in Iran while fostering an appreciation for museums and cultural learning, particularly among younger generations.
Iranak is both a narrative and interactive museum. Rather than presenting objects in isolation, it tells interconnected stories through artifacts and cultural phenomena, enabling visitors to explore the historical experiences of childhood. Children, accompanied by their families, teachers, or educators, actively engage with these narratives and discover historical concepts through participation, exploration, and interaction.
The museum is organized into four interconnected historical periods: Ancient Iran, the Post-Islamic era, the Qajar period, and the Pahlavi period. Within each section, and in consideration of the museum’s limited exhibition space, selected aspects of childhood culture are highlighted. These include childhood culture and children’s literature, the foundations of education and writing materials, children’s everyday objects and tools, and children’s clothing.
A variety of educational and cultural programs form an integral part of the museum’s activities. These include thematic tours centered on childhood artifacts, theatrical performances, traditional storytelling and folk rhymes, children’s songs and music, reading and storytelling sessions, as well as workshops inspired by the museum’s collections and themes.
The museum serves a diverse audience, welcoming children and young people of all backgrounds and abilities, including those with special needs. It also attracts families, educators, librarians, students, scholars, researchers in childhood studies and cultural history, as well as domestic and international visitors interested in Iran’s cultural heritage.
The establishment of Iranak Children’s Museum was made possible through the financial and moral support of the directors of Azarestan Business Development Group and Mohammad Atardian Partnership Company. Since its founding, Azarestan Group has continued to provide extensive support for the museum’s activities. The museum currently operates in a rented space, and its future remains dependent on continued support. We look forward to the day when, with the generosity of patrons and advocates of culture, a permanent Children’s Museum will be
established in Iran.
