YOUNG BUD PROGRAMS
We are COMPLETELY BOOKED for the 2023-24 school year and will begin accepting reservations for summer self-guided Independent Garden Exploration mid-April
Please note, the Garden will not have Butterflies LIVE! in 2024 or 2025. This is due to the Garden’s THRIVE: Growing the Garden’s Future Expansion of the Conservatory and grounds, which will result in a year-round butterfly house and additional displays and gardens. We look forward to bringing you these wonderful improvements.
Pricing
- The cost is $10 per student; the minimum group charge is $100.
- Programs are designed for students aged 4-5 years old.
- One adult per five students is admitted free to cover teachers and designated chaperones.
- Additional adults are asked to pay Garden Admission and are welcome to enjoy the Garden independently during the guided program. Please limit the number of adults accompanying each guided program to five, including teachers. Additional adults can accompany their child before and after the guided program.
- Programs take place outdoors, rain or shine. Please have everyone dress for the weather.
Availability
Fall and Spring
- 45 minute-long programs are offered in Fall, September-November, and Spring, March-May, Monday-Friday at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 11:45 a.m.
- Two programs are available during each time slot for up to 20 students per program.
- Programs consist of a Storytime, a Craft and Garden Exploration.
Winter
- 45 minute-long programs are offered in Winter, December-February, Monday-Friday at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m.
- One program is available during each time slot for up to 20 students.
- Programs consist of a Storytime, a Craft, and Garden Exploration.
Registration
To register, contact our Youth Program Logistics Coordinator, Laura Lee Folman, at [email protected] or 804.262.9887 x322 with the following:
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- Your name, email address, and phone number, contact person’s information (if it is someone other than yourself).
- Your organization’s name and mailing address.
- Which program topic you would like.
- The number of classes you would like to bring.
- The total number of students who will attend.
- Your top three choices of program dates in order of preference (please include the program time(s) you prefer as well).
PROGRAM OFFERINGS
Flowers to Fruit | September - November
Did you know that flowers turn into fruit? Do you know the difference between a fruit and a vegetable? Students will go on a Nature Walk to observe pollinators at work and discover the amazing transformation from flower to seed-bearing fruit. Along the way, students will collect seeds and other surprises, and learn more about how they can grow at home.
Trees in Winter | December – February
Did you know that flowers turn into fruit? Do you know the difference between a fruit and a vegetable? Students will go on a Nature Walk to observe pollinators at work and discover the amazing transformation from flower to seed-bearing fruit. Along the way, students will collect seeds and other surprises, and learn more about how they can grow at home.
Sprouts in Spring | March – May
As buds emerge from bare branches and colorful flowers burst from the beds, students discover the sights and smells of the early spring garden. We will explore different areas of the garden in search of all the new life emerging from the winter cold. Along the way we will learn about the life cycle of plants and even get hands-on in the Children’s Garden.