Youth Education: Families

Family Fun

From garden crafts to scavenger hunts,
guided walks to story time and a summer book club, we have a bevy of fun, engaging activities at the Botanical Garden. Check out this special feature that details all we have in store for the whole family.

Find out about Family Fun >>

Hunt for Treasure in San Francisco

Check out this self-guided adventure experience, now available at the Garden Bookstore. Follow clues in a booklet that makes exploring the garden more exciting than ever, and a special hidden box rewards those who complete the botanical adventure!

Developed in collaboration with SFBGS, this program is both educational and entertaining for all ages.

About URBIA >>

Why do plants talk to animals?

How can plants travel without any legs?
Find answers to these and other questions in this web feature packed with fascinating facts, surprising information and activities for the kids.

Discover the Incredible World of Plants >>

Sit Down with a Cozy Book

Every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, we offer a special Children's Story Time. Looking for a fun, free and easy-to-coordinate activity? Join us in our cozy children's book nook with comfy kid-sized cushions, a bevy of stuffed animals and lively readers. Afterward, families can enjoy a special docent-led children's tour of the garden. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful setting. This event is suitable for children ages 4-8.

More about Story Time >>

Let's Get Reading!

The Master Book List
A complete list of our Library's collection of over 1,600 books for children on plants, natural history, general science and more.

Download our Children's Bibliography >>
(PDF 1 Meg)

Get the Botanical Buzz on Children in the Garden

Young children learn by using all of their senses and older kids become engaged by looking for things. What better place for them to learn than in a garden? Annette Huddle, Director of Youth Education the Garden, explains in this podcast.

Podcast: Children in the Garden >>

Take the Redwood Trail

With over 100 plant species in addition to the majestic Sequoia sempivirens, there's discovery here at every turn. Try to catch the heady scent of the Western Azalea in bloom in early summer, or if you're lucky, spy a bright yellow banana slug oozing across your path.

Download the Redwood Trail Guide for your next trip.

The Redwood Trail (PDF, 2M)
(For best results, print double-sided on legal-sized paper.)

Podcast: Redwood Trail Walking Tour >>

Podcast: Fog and the Redwoods >>

And be sure to check out...

Our Resources
Dig in deep to an armload of rich content...find book lists, maps, learn about how plants talk to animals and much more. Includes activities for classes and families.

Resources >>