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
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