A Day in the Life of a Brooklyn Children's Museum Director: From Tarantulas to 'Antiques Roadshow'

A Day in the Life of a Brooklyn Children's Museum Director: From Tarantulas to 'Antiques Roadshow'

Kate Mirand Calleri, the director of education at the Brooklyn Children's Museum, takes us on a whirlwind tour of her Sundays, balancing work, commuting, and her love for art and science.

A Typical Sunday Routine

Her day starts early with a quick smoothie and a long commute on the A train, where she finds time to listen to music and podcasts, including favorites like Beyoncé, St. Vincent, and NPR's "Fresh Air." At the museum, she greets staff, oversees the ColorLab art studio and Nature's Engineers STEM-themed makerspace, and engages with visitors.

The museum's diverse programming offers children and families a unique experience, with hands-on activities like making fossils and building earthquake-proof skyscrapers. They even have a natural history collection featuring live animals, including tarantulas, snakes, lizards, and insects, plus a 72-year-old turtle named R2D2!

Lunchtime Delights and a Crowded Commute Home

Calleri enjoys a healthy lunch break at Meme's Healthy Nibbles, a local favorite with quirky menu names like "I Am Magnificent" and "I Am Best." The afternoon commute home is a different experience, with crowded trains and standing room only. She uses this time to catch up on emails.

Relaxation and Winding Down

After a long day, Calleri enjoys relaxing with her partner, Ian Carlino, a cook who prepares delicious dinners. Their evenings include walks, TV shows, and her favorite show, "Antiques Roadshow." Finally, she reads for 30-45 minutes before heading to bed.

A Unique Perspective on Museum Education

Calleri's story highlights the dedication and passion of those who work in museum education, showcasing the important role they play in inspiring children and families. She describes her work as an extension of her art education practice, finding joy in seeing children explore and learn within the museum's multifaceted space.