South Dakota's first children's museum took a big step toward becoming a reality on Wednesday. Organizers broke ground in Brookings, clearing the way for work to begin.

A marching band and some golden shovels marked the official beginning of the Children's Museum of South Dakota. It will be built at the site of the old Central Elementary in Brookings. The Larson Family Foundation privately funded the project and Dale Larson thinks it will be a jewel for Brookings. He says, "Not only for the children, but it's going to be a great attraction for the whole region and the State of South Dakota."

The museum will feature 33,000 square feet of exhibits and demonstrations. An addition will house a restaurant and atrium. Brookings mom, Stacey Linde says, "What a great thing. It's hands-on, one of the best ways to learn things. The kids are going to love it and I wish I had it when I was little." Brookings mom Bridgett Stark says, "I think it's a wonderful opportunity for kids, and educational, learning experience."

On a day all about kids, the groundbreaking even had something special for them hidden in the dirt: make-believe dinosaur eggs. The kids say they can't wait for the new museum to take shape. Otto Stark says, "This is going to be really fun and I think a lot of people are gonna be here." Jacob Rueschenberg says, "It's gonna mean a lot to me and I know it's going to mean a lot to the whole community".

Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin and Lt. Governor Dennis Daugaard were among the dignitaries on hand for the ground-breaking.  Herseth-Sandlin, who's expecting her first child, says she's looking forward to experiencing the museum with her family.  It's scheduled to open in the summer of 2010.