California shines a light on Jr. scientists.

• Position: California Academy of Sciences - What's new?

The California Academy of Sciences, located in San Francisco, is a multifaceted institution committed to leading-edge research, educational outreach, and finding new and innovative ways to engage and inspire the public. With a mission to explore, explain, and protect the natural world, the stunning and sustainable structure brings an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum under one roof. It has a two-and-a-half acre Living Roof, expansive solar canopy, extensive water reclamation system, and walls insulated with recycled blue jeans. Featuring the deepest coral reef exhibit in the world, four-story tropical rain forest, towering T-Rex skeleton, and a colony of African penguins, the Academy also supports 46 world-class scientists and hundreds of researchers in 11 fields of study.

Starting with our own children, we're able to pique the interest of budding scientists with a trip to the Academy's online store. With gifts and collectibles based on the museum's exhibits, and such topics as recycling and sustainable living, youngsters are able to begin to understand our connection to the planet.

The Junior Scientist Kit ($79)...