children & family programs

day camp children at denver botanic gardens Our 2010 programs offer a wonderful opportunity for children and families to grow their interest in plants and the outdoor world. All programs include hands-on investigations, garden explorations and projects to take home. For a view of our current offerings of kids' classes and camps, please visit our registration page.

Seedlings (Ages 3-5)
Seedlings classes offer a fun, hands-on way for young children to explore the plant world while developing an understanding and appreciation for plants and their importance. Classes include hands-on explorations, nature walks, stories and projects for 3-5 year olds and their caregivers. Younger siblings can attend free of charge, as long as they don’t become a distraction to the group. Classes are offered Tuesday mornings year-round.
Garden Camps (Ages 6-15)
Spend your days surrounded by plants at the Gardens. A variety of different day camps offer a unique opportunity to investigate the amazing world of plants. Each camp will be filled with fun activities and projects--plus lots of things to take home. There’s something new each week and all camps (except Junior Master Gardeners) have new activities each year. Kids can come back week after week, year after year, and experience something new! Camps are held Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Summer Camp registration begins March 1 for General/Family members and up. All others may register beginning March 8. Junior Master Gardener registration is now open.

"Moore in the Gardens"

Moore on Mondays: Drop-in Workshops for students & families
Drop by on Monday afternoons from 1-3 p.m. to explore the work of acclaimed sculptor Henry Moore. Eighteen of Moore’s massive sculptures are displayed within the York Street Gardens. We’ll have a variety of hands-on activities, perception games, scavenger hunts and projects to take home that allow families to explore Moore’s sculptures and the inspiration he found in the natural world. Activities are located in the lobby of the Boettcher Memorial Center.

Puzzle Play (March 8, 15, 22, 29)
Learn how to see details in art by playing a fun memory game with the whole family. Re-create a Moore sculpture puzzle and take it home.
Free with Admission
Bodies of Art (April 5, 12, 19, 26)
Have some fun with movement and poses while taking a look at Henry Moore’s human figures. Families can also explore form by creating their own figure models from fresh fruits and veggies.
Most activities free with Admission (Figure Model activity has additional $2 materials fee)
ArtCapades (May 3, 10)
Engulf yourself in texture. Learn about what texture means in art by making your own fancy hat out of a variety of tactile materials.
Most activities free with Admission (Hat activity has additional $2 materials fee)
Moore Treasures (May 17, 24, 31)
Find the sculpture and solve the mystery. Go on a scavenger hunt with your family and become an art detective as you walk through the gardens. When you’re finished, play around with shape and collage.
Free with Admission

"Moore in the Gardens" Touch Cart: A Hands-On Exploration
Always popular with adults and children alike, touch carts allow visitors to explore exhibition content further. The Moore in the Gardens touch cart will include tools and materials similar to those Moore would have used to create his works, as well as images of the artist in his studio. Visitors can ask questions, handle artifacts, and discover the art, techniques and genius of Henry Moore through hands-on sculpture and art activities. The touch cart will be staffed on weekends and on free days, based on volunteer availability.

Discovery Room for Families
Come explore the world of plants with fun and exciting activities designed just for families. Choose from a variety of hands-on activities, games, models and books to expand your visit to the Gardens. Activities include "Take a closer look at plants using microscopes and magnifying glasses," "Create a picture using different kinds of seeds," "Learn how carnivorous plants catch their prey" and much more. The Discovery Room is located on the second floor bridge of the Education Building overlooking the main lobby. To access the Discovery Room, use the stairs marked fire exit adjacent to the Helen Fowler Library entrance. The Discovery Room is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Free with admission to the Gardens.
Children’s Birthday Parties
Let your child turn green this year with a sustainable birthday party at the Gardens. Your birthday child and their friends will love exploring the Gardens and learning about plants. We’ll provide everything you need to make your party a success, while minimizing the impact the party has on our planet. All you provide is your child’s favorite food. Find more information on packages and pricing.

children & family programs

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