Lemelson Center presents Invention at Play


Inside the Invention Playhouse


Cloud Dreamer
Cloud Dreamer

Puzzle Blocks
Puzzle Blocks

Tinker Ball
Tinker Ball

Word Play
Word Play





Explore the playful side of invention and the inventive side of play in Invention at Play, a national traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian's Lemelson Center




Invention Playhouse
Invention Playhouse
When asked what inspired them to become inventors, many adults tell stories about playing as children. In our virtual playhouse, you can set your own inventive thinking in motion.

Inventors’ Stories
Inventors’ Stories
The abilities humans develop through play—curiosity, persistence, imagination, communication, problem solving—have been and continue to be an important part of the inventor’s tool kit. Explore the stories of inventors, both famous and little-known, whose creative habits of mind began in childhood play and resulted in a variety of useful contributions.

Does Play Matter?
Does Play Matter?
How have attitudes toward play changed over time? What kinds of toys did inventors play with as children? Is the quality and quantity of children’s play changing? If play is changing, how will that affect invention? Reflect upon these and other questions through video commentaries and toy displays.




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Inventor's Sketchbook



Invention often begins with doodling. Use the area above to sketch your ideas.

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Alexander G. Bell’s Sketch

Inventor sketch
See sketches of the first telephone.

view sketch