Youth Programming

As prior Park District Youth Programming Leaders with over two decades of experience in regenerative gardening, we are thrilled to offer youth garden programming at your school, community organization, neighborhood event, or fall program, where children learn how to plant, grow, and prepare their own fresh and healthy foods!

Our Approach

We believe getting kids in the soil builds curiosity, connection, and important life skills.

Principles and Philosophy

  • Deepen appreciation, understanding, connection with Earth, soil, microbes, beneficial insects, plants, food
  • Gain life skills, strengthen health, reduce opportunity gaps
  • Restorative practices, relational education
  • Accessibility

Customization & Flexibility

  • Gather community input (parents, caregivers, the kids themselves) to guide selection of locally, culturally relevant plants, foods
  • Meet children where they’re at to develop problem-solving skills.
  • Activities based around inquiry
  • Culturally-relevant subject material for each age group

Core Lesson Elements

  • Outdoor classroom time, knowledge-building
  • Garden observation, engage the five senses
  • Plant, grow, harvest vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs
  • Prepare garden produce, cooperate on recipe
  • Taste, reflect, enjoy
  • Garden arts & crafts to take home

Partner with Us

Reach out to schedule a free 30-minute youth programming discussion today.

312-485-6525 

ChicagoGardenGrowers@gmail.com

Or complete the form below: