The sun was shining June 2, as a busload of first-graders from Green Holly Elementary arrived at the Calvert Marine Museum. 

In small groups, guided by CMM's courteous staff, the children explored the educational and exciting exhibits.  On their tour they learned about the critters that inhabit the Chesapeake Bay, and local marshes and rivers.  Curious kids got to handle some marsh periwinkles, spy some sleepy otters, some skates, rays and a variety of native fish, crabs and turtles.

In the popular discovery room they also got to search for fossils and play in the sailboat and lighthouse.  All the while, the children were taught about the fantastic animals and nature that is so close to home, here in beautiful Southern Maryland.

CMM offers these great educational programs throughout the school year and continues with fun activities and events into the summer.  Several of their children's camps are full for the year but opportunities for students entering grades 2 - 3 to experience the Chesapeake Indians Camp, July 27 thru July 31 and the Brownie Try-Its from July 20 thru July 24 are still available.

Also, mark your calendars for the exciting Sharkfest! Sharkefest will be held July 11, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. when Doug Poole will bring live sharks to CMM and for only $3 kids can touch the sharks, learn about them and participate in a slew of fun activities.  On July 24, children 8 and up and their parents can spend the night at the museum and enjoy an evening of adventure.

CMM also has a great program for 3 - 5 year-olds called Little Minnows with exciting programs on Thursday mornings.  Kids of all ages can enjoy cruises on the Patuxent River aboard the Wm. B. Tennison.  The Summer Kick-off Cruise on June 13, pairs the boat ride with pizza, face painting and balloon animals. 

If you are looking for some fun and educational activities for the kids this summer, that won't break the bank or require a long road trip (are we there yet!), discover the close-to-home adventures at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons Island. The Calvert Marine Museum is the jewel of Southern Maryland with hands-on activities for children of all ages….a perfect place for a day trip…you can tour the museum, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the grounds, and take a cruise aboard the Tennison.  Many of us take this place for granted and don’t appreciate all that is here so close to home!

For more information on CMM's camps, events and daily schedules, check out their website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call (410) 326-2042.