Bugs may not be every parents’ ideal theme for an activity, but most young kids LOVE them! Not only does it give you a chance to integrate science into your child’s playtime, but it can also get their faces out of the screen and into good old nature.
Bug Walk at Earthbound Farms
Each summer, Earthbound Farmstand in Carmel Valley offers workshops for kids. During the Bug Walk, the knowledgeable people at Earthbound Farms take kids and their parents on a garden tour to learn how and why some bugs are good for crops and food production. Right after the walk, the kiddos get to release lady bugs into the garden onto lettuce and take home a bag of farm-based goodies and treats. The Bug Walk is $5 per kid and open to all ages. The Saturday date in August is TBA on their Facebook page.
Earthbound Farms, 7250 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley
Tiny World of Microbeasts
Discover the vibrant world of tiny critters that live on plants! Together with an instructor, kids will describe them with words, art, song or acting. They will compare these microbeasts habitats to better know this tiny world of creatures. Valentine Hemingway is the instructor for this fun yet engaging workshop. This free event is open to ages 4-10, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Sunday, September 10, 10-11:30 am
Garland Ranch Park Visitor Center, 700 W Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Valley
Incredible Insects
Come “bug” out and learn about crawly creatures such as crickets, butterflies, bees, ants, and other species of insects. Each class will explore the world of these small invertebrate animals through storytime, arts and crafts, and games. Open to ages 3-6 years (must be “potty” trained). This is a drop-off class. You can register at http://monterey.org/Services/Monterey-Recreation for the four, one-hour class session. $29 for non-Monterey resident, $22 Monterey resident.
Casanova Oak Knoll, 735 Ramona Ave, Monterey
Become a Junior Naturalist
Has your child ever wondered what it would be like to be a scientist? Come to the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History (look for the big gray whale in front). Kids can check out a backpack full of science tools from the front desk and use them to complete hands-on activities during their visit. They are invited to measure specimens, search for bugs, use binoculars and more as they experience the Museum like never before. Once they complete their adventure, they earn a special prize and the official title of Junior Naturalist. This activity is designed for ages 7+ and takes between 1-2 hours to complete. Junior Naturalist Adventure is included with your admission to the Museum and is great for families, scout groups and more.
For more information, or to book a Junior Naturalist Adventure group visit, contact Education Programs Manager Nick Stong at stong@pgmuseum.org.
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, 165 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove
Hunting for Bugs
• Head over to the local Dollar Tree and purchase butterfly nets and little bug catching kits (equipped with small magnifying glasses). Take a “bug walk” around your house or the local park. Make sure you supervise young children and point out bugs or spiders that can bite or are poisonous.
- Have a young toddler or preschooler? Buy some colorful fake bugs from Walmart or another store. Host a picnic at a local park or in your backyard. “Hide” the plastic bugs in places where the kids can find them and tell them to place bugs in their catchers, nets or sand pails.
- Check some bug books out from the local library to read before the hunts. “Bugs, bugs, bugs” by Bob Barner or “I Love Bugs” by Philemon Sturges are two great examples with fun pictures.
- For a fun snack after a morning of hunting creepy crawlers, try Keebler Grahams Bug Bites or make Dirt Cups with Gummy Worms. (Find recipe on kratfrecipes.com)