Great Phoenix families have something to brag about next month.

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix will be featured in the March issue of Parents magazine as one of the country’s 10 best museums for children.

Located in the historic Monroe School Building, this is the first time the city-owned museum has been recognized nationally since it opened three years ago.

In 2001, Phoenix voters approved a $10.5 million bond to purchase and partially remodel the former school.

Today, the 35,000-square-foot museum, which attracts 260,000 visitors annually, was recognized for its hands-on exhibits, educational activities and classes for children ages birth to 10.

Parents magazine reviewed children’s museums across the country, identifying those with clever educational exhibits, mommy-and-me outings and festivals, healthy places for lunch, nursing areas, family restrooms and stroller parking. The magazine then interviewed finalists and asked local parents for “insider tips” to help decide the winners.

“Layers upon layers of educational and developmental goals go into every area, every exhibit, and every program that we provide, making this a wonder-filled Museum for all our visitors,” said Deb Gilpin, the museum’s president and chief executive officer.

Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays. 215 N. 7th St., Phoenix. 602-253-0501, childrensmuseumofphoenix.org. Cost is $11 per person, free for children under a year old.