The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden

This 2-acre garden is the largest horticulture project ever undertaken by the Conservatory. Featuring numerous unique, interactive experiences celebrating the Ohio landscape, the Children’s Garden will focus on introducing and connecting children to the natural world, as well as renewing that connection for their parents and caregivers.

The Children’s Garden will support the Conservatory’s outreach and education mission, promoting active learning for all ages, with emphasis on health and the natural sciences.

Educational Offerings

Weekly themes are the basis for drop-in and self-guided nature activities and nature art makerspace. Educational programming in the Children’s Garden runs from April 1, 2020 through October 25, 2020.  All programs are outdoors and may be canceled in inclement weather. The Children’s Garden is open year-round, with the exception of various water features.

Discovery Stations | This interactive station offers fun and hands-on, drop-in style programming for kids of all ages. The station explores a different topic each week related to the weekly theme. The Discovery Station is located at the Learning Pavilion in the Children’s Garden. Monday–Sunday, 10am–2pm.

Discovery Backpacks | Enhance your exploration of nature with backpacks filled with activities and tools related to plants, trees, animals and more. Backpacks are free, first come, first serve and can be checked out at the Learning Pavilion.

Discovery Guests | Once a month on Saturdays, a special guest visits the Children’s Garden for a family-friendly program. This summer, the Ohio Wildlife Center will drop by the garden with special animal ambassadors native to Ohio’s landscape. Meet these furry friends and learn more about wildlife through programming fit for all ages!

Saturday, August 31, 11am–12pm | Learn about native Ohio animals and their unique traits and habitats.
Saturday, September 28, 11am–12pm | Explore the eating habits of Ohio’s wildlife.

Nature Storytime | Enjoy stories that celebrate gardens, art, plants and nature. For ages 3–8 years old who are accompanied by a caregiver. Thursdays, 10:30am.