Schedule a Field Trip
The Ruth Bancroft Garden offers an engaging and educational field trip experience tailored specifically for children in elementary school. This program is designed to immerse young students in the beauty and diversity of climate-resilient plants while fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and the environment.
To book a field trip, please fill out the online request form.
About the Plant Detectives field trip
This program focuses on teaching core skills such as: observation, note-taking, asking questions and drawing conclusions. The subjects of observations are the adaptations to a life in dry climates made by the unique plant collection at the Garden. Our program aligns well to NGSS 3LS 3-2, 4-3, 4-4 and 4PS 4-2, 4LS 1-1.
Garden staff will introduce Ruth Bancroft and the origin of her Garden to the students. A short overview of adaptations and an opportunity to observe and touch a selection of succulents follows. Divided into small groups led by chaperones, students will explore the garden to find the answers to questions about the Garden’s plants. Students are encouraged to think like scientists and draw their own conclusions based on evidence. This method of studying plants is well-suited for learners of all abilities.
Each student will get to plant their own succulent to take home, learning about soil types and proper care. During the planting session, the students will gain hands-on experience and learn the kind of soil succulents prefer and how it is different from the clay soil commonly found in our county.
Active participation by teachers and chaperones is encouraged. It is proven that children learn better if the adults take an active part in the education. Teacher/chaperones will also receive the Plant Detective Notebook to jot down their own observations
We appreciate your support and can’t wait to explore the Garden with your students!
Check out our other Children’s Programs
We host story times, community events, and more!
Garden Buds series
This is a 4-week long program for children ages 2-4, where they will meet the same friends each week. It’ll be an opportunity to practice social skills in an outdoor setting while developing an interest in nature with hands-on activities. The class will only use sustainable and natural materials for all craft activities. The program will provide early education in basic plant knowledge, hands-on plant based activities and seasonal experiences exclusive to the Ruth Bancroft Garden.
