First Interstate Mini Bank Opens at Wise Wonders’ Mini Magic City

On March 3 in Billings, Montana, First Interstate joined Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum to celebrate the opening of the First Interstate Mini Bank, a hands-on exhibit that helps kids practice early money and math skills through play.

A morning ribbon cutting, in cooperation with the Billings Chamber of Commerce, marked the official opening of the First Interstate Mini Bank inside Wise Wonders' new Mini Magic City. Families, community members, and local leaders explored the child-sized space, tried out the teller window and "ATM," and watched young learners count, sort, and make change. The exhibit was funded by grants from First Interstate and the James R. and Christine M. Scott Family Foundation.

The Mini Bank turns abstract concepts into everyday actions - earning, saving, spending, and sharing - so numbers feel less intimidating. Early practice with counting, sorting, and pattern recognition builds confidence and supports long-term success in school and life.

Dana Andersson, associate executive director of Wise Wonders, emphasized that playful experiences with numbers help children see themselves as capable problem-solvers and can counter the "I'm bad at math" mindset that often appears later.

As a community bank, we invest in programs that help young people build practical skills.

"Instilling sound money habits early pays dividends for families and communities," said Amberly Pahut, Director of Community Responsibility at First Interstate. "Partnering with Wise Wonders creates a space where children learn by doing - counting, planning, and making choices - so those skills feel natural as they grow."

The First Interstate Mini Bank anchors a growing district of kid-sized businesses and services designed to model community roles and support social-emotional learning. Mini Magic City features:

• First Interstate Mini Bank (sponsored by First Interstate)
• Intermountain Health Mini Clinic (sponsored by Intermountain Health)
• Mini Grocery Store (sponsored by Valley Federal Credit Union)

The Mini Bank is the first phase of the expansion, with more features planned.

Mini Magic City is now open at Wise Wonders in downtown Billings. For hours, membership details, and upcoming exhibits, visit wisewonders.org.