FamilyFREE 2026-2027 BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® PUBLISHED BY SUMMER CAMP LISTINGS ON THE BIG STAGE OUTDOORS APPRECIATION SMART MONEY MOVES TWO-WHEELED ADVENTURES FAMILY SUPPORT
Fall 2026 Preschool Program Now Enrolling! The program is FREE for income-eligible families and is IEP friendly. Hartnell College Child Development Center (831) 755-6945 cdc@hartnell.edu Hartnell College Main Campus 411 Central Ave., Salinas Bldg M Call or visit our center to schedule a tour and to pick up an application! Open to the Community! Play-Based Learning Ages 2.9-5 Years Old
Visit our website for a detailed itinerary! Financial assistance available! QUESTIONS? CONTACT US AT MSHPSCHOOLS@PARKS.CA.GOV OR VISIT WWW.PARKS.CA.GOV/MSHP SUMMER 2026 Los Exploradores SUMMER CAMP Register today at www.parks.ca.gov/MSHP Camp A: Session 1 - June 15-19 Session 2 - July 20-24 Explore Monterey’s exciting past and present with adobe brickmaking, ROVs, fandangos and more! Camp B: Session 1 - June 22-26 Session 2 - July 27-31 Dive into our nature and history through whale-watching, historical crafts and more! Sign up for one camp, or mix and match! 1 Session - $325 2 Sessions - $550 9am-4pm Grades 3-5
8-12TH GRADE | CO-ED SCHOOL SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY EXPERIENCE YORK FIRSTHAND AND DISCOVER WHAT SETS US APART YORK.ORG | ADMISSION@YORK.ORG | 831.372.7338 YORK SCHOOL PRESENTS: HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL York School’s spring musical Hairspray is a high-energy celebration of music, dance, and standing up for what’s right. Set in 1960s Baltimore, the story follows Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way onto a TV show and challenges the status quo along the way. Fri. Apr 24th 2026, 7:00 pm Sat. Apr 25th 2026, 7:00 pm Thu. Apr 30th 2026, 7:00 pm Fri. May 1st 2026, 7:00 pm Sat. May 2nd 2026, 2:00 pm Sat. May 2nd 2026, 7:00 pm PERFORMANCE DATES YORK.ORG/ARTS/THEATRE Get your tickets before they sell out:
Kids ages 8-13 will dive into a watery world of wonder in our summer Underwater Explorers program. They’ll experience a surface SCUBA dive in our Great Tide Pool, just off the Aquarium’s back deck, and see the ocean like never before. No diving experience or equipment is needed— just a sense of wonder! To learn more, scan the QR code or visit: MontereyBayAquarium.org/ UnderwaterExplorers Make a splash!
Children learn by watching others. What those others are doing, and how they are doing it, however, is key. We’ve all learned bad habits growing up that we can probably blame on others. On the flip side, learning from positive role models is vital for our future success. Life skills can be instilled through countless different means. In this guide, families can discover some of those ways locally. It’s no secret that we live in a spectacular corner of the Earth. Being immersed in Monterey County’s scenic beauty is something many pine for, yet many of us take for granted. Learning about the natural world around us is good for our health, especially for developing children, who too often find themselves cooped up inside glued to the screen of whatever devices they may have. Whether they walk, crawl or roll on two wheels, it’s important for young minds to interact with the outdoors. Still, the indoors have a lot to offer—especially the stage. Learning how to act in a large production is not just for entertainment purposes, but it carries through nearly every aspect of life in public. Health doesn’t just apply to the mind and body, but also to bank accounts. Beyond financial literacy, there are many out there working to ensure children of all abilities have equal access to the world. You can learn more about all of these topics in the pages that follow. -Erik Chalhoub COURTESY OF SPECIAL KIDS CONNECT CONTENTS Founder & CEO Bradley Zeve Publisher Erik Cushman Project Editor Erik Chalhoub Editor Sara Rubin Features Editor Dave Faries Art Director/Production Manager Karen Loutzenheiser Contributing Writers and Copy Editors Caitlin Fillmore, Celia Jiménez, Pam Marino, Johanna Miller, Agata Popęda, Katie Rodriguez, Aric Sleeper Graphic Designers Annie Cobb, Lani Headley, Kevin Jewell Advertising Keith Bruecker, Diane Glim, George Kassal Business Development Director Keely Richter Cover Illustration Annie Cobb The Best of Monterey Bay® is published by Milestone Communications, Inc., a California corporation. The entire contents are copyright 2026. No portion may be reproduced. 831394-5656. www.montereycountynow.com. 10 Out in Nature 14 Life’s a Stage 20 Pocketbook Check 24 Teams on the Trails 30 Always Able 34 Summer Camp Listings 8 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027 Subscribeto the newsletter: montereycountynow.com/subscribe Go to montereycountynow.com Daily news from our family to yours NEWS • ARTS ENTERTAINMENT FOOD • DRINK CALENDAR Fresh Local News Served Daily
LEADERSHIP Whispering Pines Day Camp and Camp Quien Sabe Overnight Camp TEAMWORK ADVENTURE SUMMER REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! MONTEREY.GOV/REC friendship friendship COMMUNITY Specialty Programs and Camps Camp Counselors at Summer Programs Summer Camp >> Summer Fun Playground Program >> Spor%s Camps >> Spe al%y Camps >> EGO® Camps >> Gymnas% s Programs >> And so much more! Sports Camps and Programs POSITIVITY CONFIDENCE THE CITY OF MONTEREY good good vibes good WHERE SUMMER BUILDSMORE THAN MEMORIES. Scan here or more n o + onl ne reg s%ra% on.
10 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 In a time of screens, social media and digital learning, spending time outside is becoming increasingly less common, but it is more important than ever for young people. That is according to Noelle Fletcher, marketing and events manager for the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. She says that being outside is not only good for strengthening one’s appreciation of their environment, but also for their own mental health. This is especially true for children whose formative years have been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. “What we’re seeing now is kids who just don’t have a full understanding of what the natural world is, and what it can do for them,” she says. “When you go outside, your brain just feels better. Your anxiety relaxes. Your stress starts to melt away.” This summer, several camps will be held for young people across Monterey County, aiming to connect them with the outdoors, as well as the region’s natural and cultural history. The Pacific Grove Museum will host its annual series of outdoor day camps for children and youth. Pinecone Camps, for students in third, fourth and fifth grades, and Acorn Camps, for K-2 students, will kick off in June and run through July. Each camp is six weeks long, and each week has a different theme. From space exploration to dinosaurs, animal habitats to marine ecology, there are many opportunities for youth to experience the natural world. “Our camps are all about getting outdoors, getting dirty and trying new things,” says Liese Murphree, director of education and outreach at the museum. “For us, it’s a win if a child tries something they’ve never experienced before. That’s what camp is all about.” Museum staff, along with a team of professional educators and student interns, come together every year to organize the camps. Murphree says Above: Campers at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History take a closer look at a mastodon tusk with help from a camp intern. Left: In one of many activities, campers experience the results of their elephant toothpaste science experiment in a special demonstration. NOELLE FLETCHER NATURAL CONNECTION Summer camps aim to strengthen young people’s relationship to the great outdoors. By Johanna Miller NOELLE FLETCHER
that the strength of their staff is a major reason families feel comfortable and eager to sign up their kids. “We really make a point to provide expert training, to be able to ensure that all these kids have a successful time at camp,” she says. “We try to provide a safe learning experience to be outdoors and also just help kids start figuring out who they are as people.” A group of high school student interns, dubbed Naturalists in Training (NITs), are hired by the museum every year. Two are selected for each camp after submitting applications and being interviewed. This offers the students professional experience while earning a stipend for their work, which includes delivering lessons and keeping an eye on the younger campers. “They’re a little bit like a bridge between the campers and staff,” Murphree says. “The kids really look up to them like big brothers and sisters.” Murphree says that staff and educators make a point to give campers freedom to explore and discover on their own. “They keep a loose tether,” she says. “Of course, they’re always going to have that safety net beneath them, but they give kids space to explore. To go and figure out what that means for themselves.” The museum develops new camp TOM MURPHREE Two campers take in the scent of a California flannelbush at a Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History summer camp. 12 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027 MEarth_1-3s_FG26_DG.indd 1 3/11/26 3:51 PM Flexible full- & part-time schedules Upper Campus (Ages 1–3) – 1 Soledad Dr. | LIC #274418495 Lower Campus (Ages 3–6) – 52 Soledad Dr. | LIC #274450228 Our play-based approach brings learning to life through hands-on experiences in art, gardening, and outdoor exploration. Guided by compassionate teachers, children explore, imagine, and grow in an environment where every moment inspires learning. Each campus features an outdoor classroom for sensory exploration, problemsolving, and meaningful connections with nature. greatbeginningsmonterey.com Call us to schedule a tour at 831-647-0551 WHERE CHILDHOOD BLOOMS great-beginnings_1-3s_FG26_gk.indd 1 3/17/26 3:57 PM
experiences every year. This summer, a new overnight event for older campers has been added to the lineup. On July 17, Pinecone campers and their families are invited to enjoy a dinner, movie, educational activities and a sleepover inside of the museum. Space is limited for the event, so museum staff encourage families to sign up early. For information and to register, visit pgmuseum.org/camp. California State Parks will also host a series of camps this summer. Sponsored by Monterey State Historic Park Association, “Los Exploradores de Monterey” will be held in downtown Monterey and include two separate day programs dedicated to handson learning and exploration of local history and nature. Campers will visit historical buildings and colorful gardens through activities such as games, toys, crafts, food, songs, dances, nature observation and interactive guided tours. Other experiences include whale watching, ocean exploration, candle making, calligraphy and more. For information, visit parks.ca.gov. Meanwhile, the Salinas Public Library hosts the Natural Science Discovery Camp, which will be headquartered at the El Gabilan Library for a week in July. The Ventana Wildlife Society will teach about local habitats, from the woodlands to the shorelines, for children ages 8-12. For information, visit library.salinas.gov or email theresar@ci.salinas.ca.us. These are just a few of many available outdoor experiences focused on nature, and all have benefits. Murphree says she enjoys seeing how the campers are transformed by the end of their time at camp. “Seeing them shuffle in at the beginning of the week, shy and uneasy, but by the end they’re really happy, running around, they’ve made new friends,” she says. “They learn that they’re safe in these spaces, and that the natural world is always available to them.” WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 13 32 SURF RENTALS PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1986 Alexa Sorensen - Age 7 When Bill is in town he knows where to shop for all the killer stu ! Sorensen Family CELEBRATING 40 YEARS SERVING OUR COMMUNITY MONTEREY BAY’S LIFESTYLE STORE SINCE 1986 OTB_2-3v_FG26_gk.indd 1 3/19/26 11:00 AM
14 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 It’s 4pm in sunny downtown Salinas and 12-year-old Stella Del Real is walking down Main Street, escorted by her mother, Jamie. She just finished school for the day, but is ready for two hours of rehearsals, a few times each week, at ARIEL Theatrical, where for the last 25 years, local children have been acting in shows for others their age, and where Stella has been thriving for the last three years. “This is where my friends are,” she says. “I enjoy singing and having fun with all the nice people there.” She adds that when she started, she didn’t know about the “message”—the fact that ARIEL is not just about acting, but about developing various qualities of character. This is what hooked her, from her first show, The Chronicles of Narnia, when she was 9, through Frozen Jr., where she played young Elsa, Pinocchio (she had the main role at age 10), and now The Emperor’s New Clothes, where she will play one of the spies. This year marks a quarter of a decade since ARIEL has been operating in the Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre on Main Street in Oldtown Salinas. But this story goes much further in time. It all started at Gail Higginbotham’s kitchen table. In the early ’80s, this mother of five children discovered that if she wanted her kids to see a children’s show, she had to go to San Jose or San Francisco. Then she was asked by her church to put on a production of Peter Pan; soon the show was picked up by the Alisal Union School District and migrated to Sherwood Hall. This is how ARIEL Theatrical was born. “We were just moms, trying BALANCING ACT ARIEL Theatrical teaches practical skills for young people, both on and off the stage. By Agata Popęda DANIEL DREIFUSS ARIEL THEATRICAL ARCHIVES Above: Stella Del Real is a veteran of the ARIEL Theatrical stage, having performed in shows for the past three years. Below: A show put on by the nonprofit.
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 15 From Caves to Canvases Anime Art Camp Splash Into Watercolor! LEGO® Minecraft Survivor Game LEGO® Minecraft Adventure Game Providing strengths-based, targeted, direct instruction to empower students with dyslexia and associated learning differences with the skills, tools, strategies, and socialemotional mindset they need to thrive in college and beyond. LEAR YOUR N WAY STOP STRUGGLING, START LEARNING Locatedon60acres inSeaside, CA 4:1student-teacher ratio Grades 1-12 Multi-sensorylearning Targetedmathandliteracyinterventions Whole-childfocus www.chartwell.org 831.394.3468 chartwell_1-2h_FG26_KB.indd 1 3/16/26 3:33 PM
to do something for their kids,” Higginbotham says. “But there was just a huge interest, a hunger for that kind of thing. Local schools wanted children to be able to see other children performing.” In the early days, ARIEL utilized driveways, garages, barns, homes, churches, schools and warehouses as rehearsal spaces. Performances were scattered around Salinas in a variety of venues, attended by tens of thousands of school children. These days, approximately 500 kids perform at ARIEL, and roughly 10,000 audience members attend shows. When registration for programs opens, some of them are filled within four minutes. There are no auditions; one registers for a program and the roles get distributed. That’s because “every child is valuable,” Higginbotham says. “That it’s not talent that makes you valuable, it’s you yourself, intrinsically, as a human being that is being valuable.” ARIEL stands for accountability, respect, integrity, excellence and leadership. “ARIEL’s program is really good at building kids up,” says Sarah Gaudoin, who had experience with the nonprofit both as a child and an adult, and is currently, along with her husband Justin Gaudoin, running Paper Wing Theatre in Monterey. “The philosophy of ARIEL is not just get on stage and perform for everybody to look at you. The leadership there is very passionate about teaching life skills through theater.” Gaudoin grew up in Salinas and did two shows with ARIEL when she was 13 and 14. More recently, she has ARIEL THEATRICAL ARCHIVES ARIEL Theatrical puts on a variety of well-known performances, including The Phantom Tollbooth. ARIEL THEATRICAL ARCHIVES ARIEL actors say the experience helps build their confidence. 16 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027 BigSurFiddleCamp_1-6v_FG26_DG.indd 1 3/10/26 10:45 AM 831-373-2631 Find all registration/scholarship info at: www.spcamc.org/camp Sessions Available June 8 - August 7 Scholarships Available SPCA Summer Animal Camp SPCA_1-6v_FG26_GK.indd 1 3/10/26 10:47 AM
filmed a couple of the nonprofit’s productions and had plenty of chances to see ARIEL’s children in action. “It’s funny that the two theaters [ARIEL and Paper Wing] are different in a lot of ways, but the core is actually kind of similar no matter what age you’re working with,” she says. “Having a really supportive structure and high expectations is really important, and from experiencing children’s theater and now working at a community theater that has very professional standards.” Most of the children that take part in the program will not choose professional theater careers, Higginbotham explains. “But they all are going to have to be able to speak in public,” she says. “Ask questions in school, do job interviews, conduct business across the counter with a clerk, and be able to handle the unexpected, because there’s all unexpected things that happen on stage. These are all very practical life skills.” Stella Del Real is a perfect example of the growth through theater experience. “I’ve seen her become a better actor,” her mother, Jamie, says. “But I can also see her growth in confidence, the way she carries herself and interacts with adults. I’m amazed how she balances her school with the program. She still has straight As.” With each play, at first everything feels like too much, Stella shares. “But at the end, it seems easy,” she says, demonstrating how she learned a stepby-step, one-thing-at-a-time lesson in life. What about stage fright? “I always get a little nervous,” the young actress admits. “Everytime it’s a different experience and you never know how the audience will react.” Still, a little stage fright doesn’t stop her from seeking more exposure—she played in PacRep’s Annie in 2025 and will be part of Beetlejuice Jr. this April. “When she is not in a production,” her mother comments, “she’s bored.” 18 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027 Monterey County Students Bowl for free With our student summer bowling pass All Monterey County students K-12: Pick up your Student Summer Bowling Pass and get one free game of bowling EACH weekday (M-F) before 5pm all summer long! Valid June 1 thru August 7. Call the call the bowling center for details. GIFT One GET One MONTEREY LANES 2161 N. Fremont St., Monterey 373.1553 VALLEY CENTER BOWL 1081 S. Main Street, Salinas 422.9031 STOP IN TODAY AND RELIEVE THAT HOLIDAY STRESS! *Promotional gift card valid 1/2/15-3/31/15. Not valid for alcohol of for league fees. is Holiday Season, spread a little cheer …and keep some for yourself! Buy $100 worth of gift cards and get a $20 Promotional Gift Card FREE* Buy $50 worth of gift cards and get a $10 Promotional Gift Card FREE* Give the perfect gi that can be enjoyed by everyone on your holiday list, PLUS get a gi card for yourself! MONTEREY LANES 2161 N. Fremont St., Monterey 831.373.1553 MontereyLanes.com VALLEY CENTER BOWL 1081 S. Main Street, Salinas 831.422.9031 ValleyCenterBowl.com Time for Fun! Bowling is much more than a game monterey-lanes_1-3s_FG26_KB.indd 1 3/17/26 10:09 AM THE MONTEREYPENINSULA’S MOST RECOMMENDEDPIZZERIA ’98-’24 BEST PIZZA ’25 BEST PIZZA PLACE 3 BLOCKSUPFROMCANNERYROW/AQUARIUM Gianni’s Pizza Family Owned & Operated Since 1974 AFFORDABLE FAMILY DINING Pizza • Pasta • Ravioli • Calzones • Salads Great Italian Sandwiches Gelato • Delicious Desserts BANQUET ROOM • FULL COCKTAIL BAR OPEN MON-THUR 4PM • FRI 3PM • SAT & SUN 12PM Call ahead for take-out service 649-1500 725 Lighthouse Avenue Monterey
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20 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 Life is increasingly expensive. And for parents, this everyday financial strain can make saving money seem impossible. “Many of the families we serve are doing their best to make ends meet and simply do not have extra income to set aside in a savings account,” says Tony Amezcua, director of the county-wide Bright Futures Educational Partnership. “Families frequently share that financial topics initially feel intimidating, especially when it comes to college costs, scholarships or savings programs.” But a new college savings account for California’s kids, paired with a solid foundation in financial literacy, can help families plan for their children’s futures. The CalKIDS scholarship automatically awards money for college to all children born in California on or after July 1, 2022, and eligible public school students. These funds, held in a college savings account until the student is 17, are worth up to $1,500 for eligible public school students. Babies’ families can register newborns beginning at just 90 days old for their starting $100. “CalKIDS is the easiest scholarship your child will ever receive,” Amezcua says. “There is no application, no interview or essays. This is money that already belongs to your child.” This initiative launched in 2022 and is the nation’s largest children’s development account program for higher education with more than 5 million youth enrolled. CalKIDS has distributed $53 million to nearly 100,000 students as of June 2025. CalKIDS scholarships are not limited to paying for tuition at a fouryear institution. Testimonials on the CalKIDS website describe students using their scholarships to pay for CalKIDS is a scholarship program that gives college funds to a majority of public school students in the state. COURTESY OF BRIGHT FUTURES OF MONTEREY COUNTY CAPTURE THE BAG Scholarship accounts are available for all California kids. But smart money decisions extend beyond college. By Caitlin Fillmore
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 21 Helping families navigate schools, neighborhoods, and long-term value on the Monterey Peninsula. REALTOR® DRE#01968946 831.254.3949 MatthewVelasquez.com Local Parent & Realtor Matt Velasquez Local Parent & Realtor Helping families navigate schools, neighborhoods, and long-term value on the Monterey Peninsula. Helping families navigate schools, neighborhoods, and long-term value on the Monterey Peninsula. REALTOR® DRE#01968946 831.254.3949 MatthewVelasquez.com Local Parent & Realtor Matt Velasquez Helping families navigate schools, neighborhoods, and long-term value on the Monterey Peninsula. REALTOR® DRE#01968946 831.254.3949 MatthewVelasquez.com Local Parent & Realtor Matt Velasquez OUR FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 754-3888 | WWW.PARTNERS4PEACE.ORG Scan me! Family Education ONLINE! Rainbow Connections Family Support Program The Parent Project® Loving Solutions® Step Up Mentoring Strengthening FamiliesProgram® For parents/caregivers of youth 5-17 FIRST NIGHT MONTEREY SUMME AiiTCA A Creative Adventure Awaits! 7-()'l-� 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Our Art Camp Offers Hands -Activities Including: Drawing, Painting, Sculpturing, Self-Portrait, Weaving, Cooking and much more DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR ENROLLING 2 OR MORE CAMPERS FROM SAME FAMILY AND Early & Late Supervision �I 6 weekly sessions 7-16 years old For More Information & Online Registration firstnightmonterey.org Rewards Checking | Savings | Share Certificates Real Estate Loans | Auto Loans | Personal and Consolidation Loans Credit Cards Visit us online or call us: montereycu.com | 831.647.1000 SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR 57 YEARS Thank you for voting usBest Bank in the Monterey County! MtyCreditUnion_1-2h_FG26_GK.indd 1 3/9/26 10:35 AM
22 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 books, parking fees or a certification program related to their area of study. CalKIDS funds are accepted at accredited educational institutions in the U.S., including community colleges, universities, vocational schools and professional schools. “Don’t leave [the CalKIDS scholarship] unclaimed. It only takes three or four minutes. Do not miss out on this opportunity,” Amezcua says. “Taking a few minutes today can make a meaningful difference in their future.” Alongside the cash infusion, CalKIDS representatives say it aims to “give every one of these students a reason to believe in their path to higher education.” One of CalKIDS’ core beliefs is, “a little hope can go a long way in realizing educational aspirations.” Amezcua echoes this idea, explaining the CalKIDS scholarship can change a parent’s expectation for their child’s future from the beginning. “When families learn funds already exist for their child’s education, college and career pathways feel real, possible and expected,” Amezcua says. “That early signal helps build belief, identity and aspiration. These conversations not only lead to participation but often open the door to deeper engagement around academic planning and long-term goals.” Bright Futures Monterey County emphasizes financial literacy as part of its overall strategy to improve education, from encouraging families to claim CalKIDS accounts to helping them complete the FAFSA or understand the true cost of college. “Financial literacy helps families make informed decisions with confidence,” Amezcua says. “Helping families access resources that already exist for them [breaks] cycles of limited information and limited access.” Access to smart money advice is not exclusive to parents approaching their teen’s college decision, says Leinette Limtiaco, vice president of Central Coast branch operations for Wescom Financial, a credit union headquartered in Pasadena. “I started teaching my own kids about saving and managing money from the time they were very young and I’ve learned that those early conversations really matter,” Limtiaco says. “Financial literacy isn’t one big lesson. It’s a series of small, everyday moments that build confidence over time.” Limtiaco advises parents to consider the financial priorities they wish to teach their young children, whether that is the power of saving money or following a budget. Consider including your kids in goal-setting conversations, for instance if extra household funds should go toward saving toward a family vacation or a new car. “Including them in those decisions teaches prioritization and delayed gratification in a very natural way,” Limtiaco says. “Small, ongoing discussions make finances feel normal and approachable. Ultimately, building solid money habits in your family is about creating regular, interactive moments where parents and kids learn together.” Teens and young adults can be intrigued about advanced financial tools that can build assets, such as credit cards and investments. However, Limtiaco advises this age group to analyze their “day-to-day money” and cash flow as a first step, before researching investments that may align with their goals. Wescom offers an online Youth Financial Education Center with 25 free educational modules on topics from savings accounts and credit scores. “Our guidance is usually to start with consistent saving habits and an emergency cushion,” Limtiaco says. “It sounds simple, but understanding those ‘banking basics’ is the foundation for everything else.” A student learns about how to obtain a CalKIDS scholarship. Representatives say claiming the funds is quick and easy. COURTESY OF BRIGHT FUTURES OF MONTEREY COUNTY
CAMPS Register today! www.mpc.edu/summercamps LEGO® Camps: Multiple weeks in June & July (Ages 5-7 & 7-12) Builders and creators will spend the day tackling exciting LEGO® STEM challenges inspired by engineering, design, and imaginative worlds. ½ day ($195) and full day camps ($380). Culinary Camps: June 8-12, 15-19 & 22-26 (Ages 7-10 & 11-17) Learn real-world cooking skills while exploring creativity and teamwork. ½ day ($155) and full day camps ($305). Football Camps: June 8-12 & 15-19 (Ages 5-10 & 11-17) Develop athletic skills, teamwork, and confidence through active play with MPC Lobos coaching staff. ½ day camps with age appropriate training and competitions ($160). Jewelry & Metal Arts Camp: July 13-17 (Ages 12-17) Students learn the art of jewelry making in a professional studio setting. Campers explore techniques such as forming, soldering, and metal fabrication while creating their own wearable pieces and building craftsmanship skills. ($350) Wickedly Wonderful Oz!: July 6-10 (Ages 12-16) Calling all future performers! This high-energy musical theatre camp invites students to sing, dance, and act while learning performance skills culminating with a showcase performance at the end of the week! ($275)
24 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 On a recent Saturday morning, hundreds of teens gathered at the Fort Ord Day Camp Cycling Area in East Garrison, in full cycling gear. Many sat on mountain bikes underneath tents, pedaling in place to warm up for the day’s competition. Others were already tearing up the four-mile course deep in Fort Ord National Monument, vying for position. Various local caterers were serving up lunch for hungry riders, while parent volunteers were stationed throughout the venue, taking on all the various tasks in order for the event to run smoothly. Fun at the Fort was the first race in the Northern California Interscholastic Cycling League’s series, divided by region throughout the state. High school and middle schoolaged competitors from teams across Central California were in the race, including local teams such as Salinas High School and Monterey Bay Lightfighters Composite. The strong turnout is indicative of something larger in Monterey County: The youth mountain bike scene is on the rise. “By every indication, youth mountain biking is growing,” says Peter Berridge, vice president of the Monterey Off-Road Cycling Association (MORCA). For roughly two decades, the group of mountain bike enthusiasts has worked to maintain 86 miles of trails within Fort Ord National Monument. But that work would be mostly in vain if there weren’t bikers to actually use them. MORCA’s mission is to get the next generation not only excited about mountain biking, but instill the importance of conserving outdoor spaces for recreation. To that end, MORCA annually hosts Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day Above: Salinas High School sophomore Bodie Johnson tears down the course during a race presented by the Northern California Interscholastic Cycling League at Fort Ord National Monument. THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME More young people are hopping onto mountain bikes—and the opportunities to do so are growing locally. By Erik Chalhoub COURTESY OF MONTEREY OFF-ROAD CYCLING ASSOCIATION At Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day, young riders had the chance to traverse an obstacle course on two wheels.
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at Fort Ord in October. Riders and coaches from local middle and high school mountain bike teams lead rides and guide kids on obstacle courses. The event is designed for children from preschool- to middle schoolaged, and of all ability levels, whether they are on balance bikes, training wheels or ready for something more advanced. The Community Bike Collective provides bikes and helmets to those who don’t have their own, making it more accessible. The 2025 iteration was the biggest ever, according to Berridge, with more than 100 kids registered, but even more showed up. The benefits of mountain biking are many, Berridge notes—instilling healthy habits, helping build confidence and nurturing a love for the outdoors, which may lead to a desire to steward and protect the land. “Riding bikes can increase focus, improve mood and improve both physical and mental health,” he says. “It’s an important thing to get kids to spend more time in nature.” MORCA operates a similar obstacle course every year during the Life Time Sea Otter Classic at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. But these courses are only available for a few days out of the year, and with Berridge noting they have more demand for such activities than capacity, MORCA is in the midst of a three-year-long effort to build a permanent bike park at Laguna Seca. The park is close to reality, Berridge says, as it has received support from the County of Monterey and Friends of Laguna Seca, the nonprofit COURTESY OF MONTEREY OFF-ROAD CYCLING ASSOCIATION All ages enjoyed the outdoors on bikes during Monterey OffRoad Cycling Association’s annual event. 26 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027
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in charge of the racetrack and the recreation area that surrounds it, which is expected to formally include it in its facilities master plan later in 2026. “It’s not a matter of if, but when the bike park comes to fruition,” Berridge says. “Monterey County will have a major new hub for youth outdoor recreation in the form of biking.” Scott Johnson, an assistant coach with the Salinas High School Cowboys Mountain Bike Team, points to the tight-knit community of the mountain biking community, especially on display during the Fort Ord race. “It’s very supportive,” he says. “Everybody cheers for everybody else.” For kids who don’t have a bike, no problem—they’ll be given one for the race. The team also practices multiple days a week at Fort Ord National Monument, with a coach riding in the front and back of the group. Team members learn about the importance of nutrition and how to treat injuries, among other life skills. Johnson’s son Bodie, now a sophomore at Salinas High School, has been competing since the seventh grade. “In the seventh grade, he just did it,” Johnson says. “In eighth grade, he’s starting to get a little better at it. In ninth grade, he’s excelling and becoming pretty good. “He’s a kid who likes to sleep in, but if it’s practice day, he gets up, no complaining.” Johnson says it’s inspiring to see team members discover their passion for mountain biking. “You find that it opens the door for kids who may not have a group, but they’ll find a group within the team,” he says. It’s something that Berridge echoes, recalling a conversation he had with three high school-aged teens during Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day. “They spoke so positively and energetically about being out there with friends in nature and away from screens,” he says. “They were clearly speaking from the heart.” Members of the Salinas High School Cowboys Mountain Bike Team were among the hundreds of riders competing in Fun at the Fort. 28 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® FAMILY 2026-2027 A CANNERY ROW TRADITION PIZZA SEAFOOD PASTA 660 Cannery Row 2nd Level of Steinbeck Plaza on Cannery Row louielinguinis.com 831-648-8500 FREE Clam Chowder Present this COUPON and receive ONE CUP of our Award-Winning Clam Chowder with the purchase of an entree. Limit two per table. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Code: CRVG Trip Advisor Lunch & Dinner Daily KIDS MENUS & GREAT FOR GROUPS Expires 4/2/27 louie_1-3v_FG26_gk.indd 1 3/9/26 11:59 AM
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30 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 For parents, witnessing their children achieve milestones is one of the most gratifying moments in their lives. “Every step they take, even a small one, is a giant leap for us. As parents, we are very proud of what we have achieved with our children, and we are going for more,” Leidy Gomez says in Spanish. She is a mother with three sons on the autism spectrum, ages 10, 7 and 3. Gomez says her oldest was diagnosed with autism when he started first grade. She says she didn’t know much about the disorder and she started paying more attention once her son’s teacher told her he needed additional support. Shock, denial and guilt are some of the emotions parents might go through when they learn their child has a disability. “They don’t want to accept the help, because accepting the help means acknowledging that there’s something wrong with your child,” says Monica Andrade, a playgroup facilitator for the nonprofit Door to Hope. She works with kids 0-5 years old. Experts say for many parents, their children’s diagnosis is their first encounter with a disability and they can feel overwhelmed, especially when navigating the process to receive aid. “If you were diagnosed with cancer, you probably would have a primary care physician that would help navigate all those services for you. But when you have a child with a disability, there is no primary care physician of sorts to be able to provide that navigation,” says Lori Luzader, executive director of Special Kids Connect, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and support to children with disabilities and their families. Satwat Rais, director of special education at Alisal Union School District, says not every child is tested for a disability; a medical diagnosis or letters from parents and caregivers reporting developmental delays will trigger testing. At AUSD, many students receive speech therapy. Since many students in the district are bilingual, there is another factor at play when testing them. “Is it an actual deficit in speech, or is it just second language acquisition?” Rais says. Luzader says most parents need aid navigating the educational system, whether their child qualifies for speSpecial Kids Connect’s Neurodiverse Connect program teaches college and career readiness skills by allowing youth to plan and execute events. Shown at left, students work on creating products to sell at a Salinas farmers market. Above: Specialists at Special Kids Connect help families navigate services. COURTESY OF SPECIAL KIDS CONNECT SUPPORT SYSTEM It can be an emotional time for parents when their child is diagnosed with a learning disability. Help is available. By Celia Jiménez COURTESY OF SPECIAL KIDS CONNECT
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32 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 cial education services, understanding how the system works, and what they can do to advocate for their child and participate in the decision-making process on the services their child will receive. School districts, Special Kids Connect and Special Education Local Plan Area in Monterey County (SELPA), which is responsible for guaranteeing available programs for students with a disability in public schools, provide workshops for parents on special education. Mariposa, a parent support group in South County, and Special Kids Connect offer support group sessions where parents of children with disabilities share their experiences. “That peer-to-peer support is so helpful,” Luzader says. “To be able to sit in a room with other parents that have been overwhelmed and have managed to navigate the system and get over those hurdles and those challenges, is super important.” “It’s a learning process among parents; we have to help each other,” Gomez says, noting that sharing experiences with other parents and having a supportive spouse have helped her to keep going. She focuses on the positive aspects and the steps her sons are accomplishing, such as using pictograms to communicate or making a quesadilla by themselves. Once a child has an educational diagnosis (such as a learning disability or language impairment), school districts form a team that includes a parent or guardian, a special education teacher, an interpreter if needed and others to create a plan called an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the student based on data and the student’s needs. Having a medical diagnosis for a disability, for example, doesn’t guarantee a child will automatically qualify for special education at school. “We’re looking at how, if there is a disability, it is impacting their education,” Rais says. Parents and experts say it’s important for parents to have an active role in their kids’ EIP and to have both parents on the same page to generate a comprehensive plan. Gomez’s 7-year-old son is nonverbal, and she learned about one-onone instruction through Special Kids Connect. She says she advocated for one-on-one instruction for her son, and after several evaluations, it was determined he needed that level of service. In California, regional centers through the state’s Department of Developmental Services diagnose and provide services for children from birth to 3 years old. At 3, the responsibility in most cases shifts to school districts, even if the children aren’t enrolled in an early education program or class. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, during the 2022-23 school year, 7.5 million students, or 15 percent of those enrolled in public education, ages 3-21 received special education or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, also known as IDEA (California is below the national average with 14 percent). AUSD has a student population of 7,500; roughly 1,100 have an IEP. Rais says some factors have increased the number of students in special education. For example, districts are better at evaluating students, while parents’ requests have increased. “More and more parents want their children evaluated, which is slightly different from what happened 20 years ago,” Rais says. “The awareness is there. The support is here.” While awareness has increased inside and outside the classroom, parents say the community should offer more empathy, and there should be more resources available to create more inclusive spaces among children and adults. “It would be wonderful if the community taught its children not to discriminate because someone has a condition [a disability],” Gomez adds. REACH programs at Special Kids Connect, such as basketball (above) and art (left), bring together neurotypical youth with those who have disabilities in a recreational setting. COURTESY OF SPECIAL KIDS CONNECT COURTESY OF SPECIAL KIDS CONNECT
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 33 For more inFormation visit us at HopeHorseskids.org discover tHe Joy oF Learning at tHe Hope, Horses & kids Barnyard! Join us for hands-on lessons in a fun and welcoming environment where animals and nature come to life. At our barn, we believe learning should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer affordable lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re interested in learning all aspects of horsemanship, are interested in our Horse Powered Reading program, or simply caring for and being around animals, our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Lori at 831-596-6693 or lori@hopehorseskids.org for more information
34 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 Big Sur Fiddle Camp Music education is the cornerstone of this program, but the setting is one of the things that sets it apart. Over a week of camping atop a ridge on the Big Sur coast, a series of music classes, farm chores on a working ranch, yoga, hiking and jam sessions culminate in a community concert. June 21-June 28 Big Sur, lygia@bigsurfiddlecamp.org, bigsurfiddlecamp.org Carmel Youth Center Join Carmel Youth Center this summer for the ultimate summer day camp and enjoy fun under the sun. Activities include crafts, recreational games and enriching fun. Dropins or registration available. Week-long sessions run June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, June 29-July 3, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31 Ages 5-14. $290/session. 4th Avenue & Torres, Carmel, 624-3285, carmelyouth.org Chartwell School At Chartwell School, students in grades one through eight can participate in the fourweek CORE program that rotates between literacy skills, math and a STEAM / Makers program. CORE students can also opt into an individualized afternoon reading program, or enrichment programs such as theater, studio art, fitness, digital music and robotics. June 15-July 3 from 8:30am-12:30pm; $1,800; afternoon reading and programming available at additional cost 2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside, 3943468, chartwell.org/summer City of Monterey Recreation Youth Sports Camps Monterey offers a fun and diverse series of sports camps for kids ages 3-18. Locations vary by camp. Check the website for more details and registration. Beach Volleyball Camp (ages 9-13 years): Mon-Fri 9am-noon OR 1-4pm, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, July 6-10. Intermediate and Advanced sessions available for students ages 14-18 Challenger International Core Soccer (ages 7-14): MonFri 9am-4pm, June 8-12, July 6-10, July 20-24; Challenger International Core Soccer Creative Skills Soccer (ages 7-14) Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, June 22-26; Youth Track and Field Camp (ages 6-13): Mon-Fri 9am2pm, July 13-17; Basketball Camp (ages 7-13): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, June 15-19 Flag Football Camp (ages 6-14): Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, July 20-24 646-3866, monterey.org/rec City of Paci ic Grove Recreation Pacific Grove offers a full list of summer camp activities for students in the areas of dance, STEAM, robotics, golf, soccer, aquatics, sports and more. Imagine Dance Camp (ages 4-8): June 15-19, 9am-noon or 1-4pm; $225 STEAM & Robotics Camps (Kindergarten - 8th Grade): Week-long sessions June 1-July 24, 9am-noon or 1-4pm; $250-$450 Summer Adventure Camp (ages 5-12): Week-long sessions June 8-July 29; $138-$231 Summer Adventure Camp for Tots (ages 3-5): Week-long sessions June 8-July 17; $92-$115; Youth Golf Camp (ages 6-14): Weeklong sessions June 15-July 24; $320- $420 Youth Soccer Camp (ages 6-12): Weeklong sessions June 8 - July 2; $93- $116 Pacific Grove Recreation, 302 16th Street, Pacific Grove, 648-3134, cityofpg.org/ recreation Diversity Center Rainbow Connections Camp Out is a 3-day overnight camp for LGBTQ+ youth and allies SUMMER CAMPS 2026 Illustrations by Annie Cobb
WWW.MONTEREYCOUNTYNOW.COM 35
36 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2026-2027 who are looking for a welcoming, inclusive, affirming summer glamping experience in Carmel Valley. Reconnect to nature while building community by the camp fire. Campers will swim in the pool, enjoy delicious shared meals, make art, and help bring a talent show to life. A supportive space with peers and camp counselors who celebrate who campers are. June 15-17, Ages 14-18, Free 1117 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, 4255422, diversitycenter.org Elkhorn Slough Safari Explore Elkhorn Slough, one of California’s largest wetlands and part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve system. View harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters and hundreds of bird species from the comfort of a 27-foot pontoon boat. Tours daily. $46/adult; $36/children 3-12; $40/seniors 7881 Sandholdt Road, Moss Landing, 633-5555, elkhornslough.com First Night Monterey Summer Art Day Camps First Night Monterey’s Summer Art Day Camps are designed to develop positive and creative thinking skills for children, using the arts to nurture creativity. Think basket weaving, print-making and now cooking and gardening. It all happens in a noncompetitive, safe, fun environment. No prior experience or talent is needed. Each Friday features a performance or gallery exhibit of the work completed during the camp week. Archer Park Community Building, 542 Archer St., Monterey, 373-4778, firstnightmonterey.org Friends of Marina Library There are plenty of summer activities at the Marina Library this summer. Falcons Chess Club meets Wednesdays 3:30-5pm Dads Read on the second Saturday of each month 10am-noon Puzzle Race on the third Friday of June 6pm More activities scheduled regularly, check website for more. 190 Seaside Cir, Marina, 883-7507, friendsofthemarinalibrary.org Girls Inc. of the Central Coast Girls Inc. offers programs aimed at serving their mission: Inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Smart Choices is a summer camp for 8th and 9th grade girls where campers learn about making good choices in high school and beyond. Strong, Smart and Bold is for younger girls age 8-11 to explore STEM, media pressures, bullying, finance, nutrition, self-defense, ZUMBA, and arts & crafts. Strong, Smart and Bold - July 6-10, 9am-4pm; $200 Lead-HER-ship - June 30 - July 2; $300 318 Cayuga St., Suite 209, Salinas, (831) 772-0882, girlsinccc.org Hope, Horses & Kids Programming at Hope, Horses & Kids is geared toward development of not just horsemanship, but of the hearts, minds and spirits of the students involved. Programs include Equine Assisted Learning, Horse Powered Reading, Teen Leadership and private / semi-private horsemanship lessons. 1218 Padre Drive, Salinas, 596-6693, hopehorseskids.org ISR Swim Monterey Bay Infant Swimming Resource is a customized, one-on-one lesson taught by a certified instructor. Children are taught the necessary skills to be safe in the water. Designed for infants and children. Sessions run 6-8 weeks. Traditional swim instruction is also available. 202 Calle Del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, 5083194, isrmontereybay.com Lyceum The Lyceum offers learning adventures dedicated to art and science, with various sessions for younger and older participants. Activities will include: art, sculpture, design, sketching, watercolor painting, digital photography, cyber adventures, collage art, papercraft and space adventures. Camps run June 8-July 24. 1073 Sixth St., Monterey, 372-6098, lyceum.org SUMMER CAMPS 2026
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