In order to succeed in an ever-changing world, children need to develop habits of inquiry that will
last a lifetime. We believe they learn best when they have fun, are self-motivated, and search for answers to questions they formulate for themselves.

Children, like adults, have different ways of acquiring knowledge. MY Museum provides a dynamic educational setting where all types of informal learning occur. Cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development can be observed within the museum's environment. Our primary goal is for children to understand themselves as learners and
to have successful learning experiences. During
your visit, you can observe individual children and gain
further clues to help meet their needs in the classroom.

The museum environment plays a very important role in the learning experience. Our staff and Exhibit Committee have thought deeply about the quality and the instructive power of space. We have created a welcoming place that fosters exploration, communication, and social interaction. The arrangement of exhibits encourages choices, problem solving, and discovery. Please take time to reflect on how our environment affects your students' learning.

During Your Visit

Documentation of your visit can enrich the museum learning experience. We encourage you to take photographs of your students as they:
- Problem solve
- Learn alone
- Try something new
- Examine objects
- Interact with others
- Explore

After Your Visit

Reflection is an important part of the learning process. It is a means by which we integrate experiences to expand our understanding of the world. We hope you and your class will reflect upon your visit.

Use the photos you have taken to:
- Stimulate discussions or writing projects
- Initiate explorations in science or art
- Create a class history
- Enhance a student's portfolio
- Share with parents

*Credit to the Santa Fe Children's Museum for above field trip information.

Field Trip Information

- Field trips are self-guided.

- Groups are greeted by our museum staff. After a short orientation, your students will enter the Museum to explore and discover. Since the field trip is self-guided, your class will not have a museum staff person guiding your class' experience.

- A maximum of 60 students allowed per time slot.

- Total museum visit is 90 minutes including 10 minutes of preparation and 10 minutes clean up.

- Chaperones are required at minimum ratio of 1:5. Chaperones are admitted free of charge.

- Call to schedule a field trip at least 1 week in advance (3 weeks is recommended).

- Bus parking is available.

- The cost is $3 per child. A minimum of $30 per group.

- Field trips are scheduled Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, beginning at 10:00a.m. (Subject to availability)

Scholarship Information

The Lauralie Irvine Scholarship Fund is designed to provide opportunities for under-served populations of Monterey County. It is available to programs that serve low income and minority populations. The Lauralie Irvine Scholarship Fund gives all children of Monterey the chance to visit, learn, and play at the Children's Museum for a minimal cost.

Scholarships may be awarded for all or a percentage of the field trip admission fee. The Lauralie Irvine Scholarship funds may only be used for children's admission costs. These scholarship funds are served on a first come first serve basis. To apply, call Lauren Cohen, Executive Director at MY Museum 649-6444.

To schedule a field trip or outreach or if you have any questions call (831)649-6444