What will my child do in the Children's Gardening Program?

Throughout the season they are enrolled, Crafters and Sprouts plant and care for a garden and learn about garden-related topics through fun enrichment activities. Each session includes time dedicated to hands-on gardening and time dedicated to learning about a particular theme, through investigations, hikes, discussions, and games. Caregiver accompanying their Sprout actively participates along with their Sprout.

Where does the Children's Gardening Program take place?

The program takes place outdoors at the Edible Academy (EA). The campus is located near the East Gate and includes gardens, classrooms, greenhouse, open air pavilions (offering relief from sun and rain), restrooms, water bottle refill station, and hand sanitizer dispensers. The classrooms and greenhouse will not be utilized during the program. The Edible Academy campus is NOT open to the public during the CGP sessions.

Does my child harvest and keep what they grow?

Many of the crops the Crafters and Sprouts plant and care for are harvested during the season they are enrolled. Some of the crops are left to grow and are harvested by the Crafters and Sprouts enrolled in subsequent seasons. Some of the crops will be harvested by Edible Academy staff and donated to local community-based food providers.

Does my child choose what they grow?

In order to have seeds and seedlings ready each program session, EA staff develop planting plans that include a diversity of crops that are seasonally appropriate. Each season more than a dozen different vegetables, herbs, and flowers are grown.

How does my child get to the Edible Academy?

Crafters and Trams are transported to and from the Edible Academy on the NYBG Trams. Trams depart from the Tulip Tree Allee. Crafters Educators join the Crafters to provide supervision during the ride.

Who teaches my child during the Children's Gardening Program?

NYBG hires and trains Crafters and Sprouts Educators to facilitate the gardening and enrichment activities planned by Edible Academy administrators. Each Educator is assigned up to 12 Crafters or 12 Sprouts and accompanying caregivers and is supported during program sessions by several Edible Academy administrators as well as Assistant Educators.

What efforts are being made to promote my child's safety during the program session?

All activities of the Children’s Gardening Program will take place outdoors; all staff and participants are required to wear face coverings indoors and in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden and the Edible Academy. Hand washing stations and hand sanitizer stations are installed throughout the Edible Academy campus. All garden tools will be disinfected with an alcohol-based disinfectant in between users. Enrichment activities will include hikes and games that promote social distancing.

How do I enroll my child in the Children's Gardening Program?

You can enroll https://www.nybg.org/learn/kids-teens/childrens-gardening-program/ or via phone at 718.817.8181.

When does registration for the Children's Gardening Program begin?

You can register your child for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and/or Fall 2022 sessions now.

Do NYBG Members receive a discount?

Yes, we offer CGP Crafters and Sprouts at a discounted rate for NYBG Members at the Family Level and above.

Are discounts available for enrolling in more than one season?

Yes, we offer a 10% discount for enrolling your child in three or more seasons. Please use code CGP1022 at check out.

Do you offer financial scholarships?

Yes, you may apply for a https://nybg.doubleknot.com/form/takesurvey.aspx?surveyid=83821&orgkey=3803 .

Who do I contact if I have further questions regarding the Children's Gardening Program?

You can email childed@nybg.org or call 718.817.8181

How can I purchase or renew a Membership?

You can purchase a Membership https://www.nybg.org/join-support/membership/ , on-site at any ticket window, or by calling the Membership Office. To purchase online you’ll have to create a new Member account. Renewing Members have an existing account. https://www.nybg.org/content/uploads/2019/11/ME_Members-Login-Info_2019-Final.pdf

Trade-in Tickets Towards Membership

If you have purchased regular-priced admission to the Garden, during your visit the ticket price can be applied to the cost of a Membership. For Individual and Teacher level, the cost of one regular-priced ticket is applied. The cost of two regular-priced tickets can be applied towards the purchase of a Dual Membership. The cost of two adult and two children’s tickets can be applied towards the purchase of Family–Sustaining Memberships. Please see a Visitor Services Representative on the day of your visit for additional details.

When will I receive my Membership materials?

Please allow 2–3 weeks from the date of purchase to receive your Membership materials. We will assume all proper Membership materials have been received unless notified. Please notify the Membership Office if you have not received your Membership materials 3 weeks after purchase.

Renewals may be processed at any point once your Membership term has commenced. When you renew an active Membership, it will be extended for one year from the current expiration date. The Membership Office does not retain the credit card information. This information must be re-submitted with each renewal.

When can I begin using my Member benefits?

Member admission and discounts can be used immediately upon purchase of Membership. Member Passes for guest admission or parking will be sent with your Membership materials within 2-3 weeks of purchase. Member passes can only be redeemed by presenting the physical pass at the Garden.

What admission benefits do Members receive?

Membership entitles you to year-round admission. Each Membership is allotted a fixed number of complimentary Member tickets per day determined by Membership level.

What discounts do Members receive?

Members receive a 10% discount off purchases at NYBG Shop. Members also receive discounts on education course fees and on select premium events.

Do I have to reserve tickets for timed entry?

Timed tickets may be required for admission to the Garden. This is necessary to alleviate overcrowding, ensure a more pleasant experience, and protect the Conservatory, collections, and delicate exhibitions.

How do I redeem my Member Passes?

To receive complimentary parking, redeem pass to the parking attendant upon arrival on Garden premise. When parking at our secure parking facility at 401 Bedford Park Blvd, Members must validate parking ticket and redeem pass at a Garden ticket window to avoid Event and Standard Weekday non-visitor rates. For guest admissions, passes can only be redeemed at Garden ticket windows; they cannot be reserved in advance. Each pass can be used once. If you do not have your passes when you visit, you will be required to pay regular price (no refunds).

How do I redeem Member Passes for timed-entry admission?

If a Member with a timed ticket brings a friend using a guest pass, Garden Representatives will do their best to accommodate the guest(s) at the same time. Additional timed tickets are available for purchase at regular price if you have exceeded the number of complimentary admissions allowed by your Membership level.

Can I give a friend one of my Member passes?

No. Members are required to accompany their guest(s) when using a guest pass.

Are Member Passes always valid for guest admission?

Member Passes are not valid for guest admission during the Holiday Train Show® or select premium events.

What reciprocal benefits do Members have at participating gardens and arboreta?

Garden Members receive reciprocal benefits at gardens and arboreta throughout the United States through our association with the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program. Benefits vary by organization. Members must contact the Garden they wish to visit confirm what benefits are available. A complete listing can be found https://ahsgardening.org/gardening-programs/rap/ .

Can I access the Garden prior to opening hours?

Early Morning Access is a great way to enjoy the beauty and solace of the New York Botanical Garden’s grounds before the Garden is open to the general public. Supporting, Contributing, Sustaining, and Patron level Members can utilize their complimentary Early Morning Access from Tuesday–Sunday, 6–10 a.m. Please have your Membership ID card or proof of Membership purchase (receipt) available when entering the Garden. Please note that no building entry is allowed with the exception of the Visitor Center and East Gate restrooms and parking is only available at the Mosholu Entrance (2950 Southern Blvd.).

How long does it take to receive my Membership card(s)?

Membership cards and passes will be mailed within 2-3 weeks of Membership purchase. Membership is active upon purchase and is not contingent upon the receipt of Membership materials.

How many cards will I receive?

Individual level will receive one Membership card. Memberships that include two or more individuals will receive at most two Membership Cards, one for each adult named on the Membership. If a Member wishes to add a new second individual to the Membership during cycle, there is a $10 replacement card fee.

Do I need my Membership card to access my benefits?

No. If you do not have your Membership card, a photo ID will be requested by Garden Representatives to receive your Member benefits. Member benefits are for the Member(s) listed on the Membership.

I lost my card. How do I get a replacement?

There is a $10 replacement fee for lost, damaged, or stolen Membership Cards You can purchase a replacement card at any ticket window when visiting the Garden or by calling the Membership Office. Please allow 2-3 weeks for the mailing of replacement card(s).

Membership is valid for one year from the date your application is processed. No refunds, extensions, or exchanges will be granted if you are for any reason unable to utilize your Membership Benefits.

Memberships, Membership Benefits, passes, and Membership Cards are nontransferable.

Membership Downgrades

The Garden does not permit a Member to downgrade to a lower Category once the Membership materials have been received and/or benefits have been used.

Membership Terms & Conditions

These terms and conditions apply to all Members of the Botanical Garden. In these terms “you/r” or “Member/s” refer to all people who have purchased or applied for a Membership at the Individual, Individual Senior, Dual, Dual Senior, Family, Family Senior, Friends & Family, Supporting, Contributing, Sustaining, and Teacher categories. The terms “we”, “NYBG”, “the Botanical Garden”, or “the Garden” refer to The New York Botanical Garden. With the exception of the benefit of admission to the Garden, we reserve the right to alter the Membership Categories and Benefits without prior notice. Members and guests are subject to conditions and policies of the Garden. We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to refuse entry and/or Membership to a Member and to revoke a Membership without refund if a Member behaves in a threatening or abusive manner toward any person, or damages or threatens to damage any of the collections at The New York Botanical Garden. We reserve the right to amend the terms of these policies at any time. At the time of an amendment, Members will be notified.

What’s the advantage of attending the school of professional horticulture versus earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in horticulture?

The advantage can be summarized with one word—skills! The School’s strength is that it teaches students valuable horticulture skills, which give our graduates a competitive advantage over other programs based solely on coursework. The School’s program combines the theoretical and the practical, teaching not just how to grow plants, but why plants grow the way they do. It is due to this kind of education that our students are highly sought after, not just for internships, but also for full-time employment upon graduation.

As someone who is switching careers, what is it like to work in the horticulture industry?

It is a close-knit community of dedicated and passionate professionals who are willing to share their knowledge, experience, information, and employment opportunities. As a student, you meet many key people in this profession from around the world in diverse areas of horticulture, and as a graduate, you become part of that community. One of the biggest benefits of attending the School is making these lifelong contacts here at NYBG and beyond.

What is the typical demographic of students in the school?

Students come from all over the country and world. Most students have some college background, and many have degrees in fields other than horticulture. The majority of students are career changers and range in age from their late teens to mid-50s.

What is the job placement rate for graduates?

The School has had a job placement rate of 100% for the past 8 years. Our alumni are highly sought after by botanical gardens, public parks, celebrity estates, and even major league sports stadiums. Exceptional students also are often hired at NYBG upon graduation when a position is available. However, the School does not promise or guarantee employment.

What kind of salary can I expect to recieve

Generally, private industry pays more than public parks and gardens. The starting salary range in private industry is typically $50,000–$60,000; for non-profits it is $40,000–$55,000.

How is the two-year program divided?

The program is divided into nine terms. Academic classes are concentrated between rotations and include evening sessions.

What if I have fewer hours of experience by application deadline, should I still apply?

Yes; contact the Director to assess your situation.

How many course hours should I expect to take?

Students are required to complete 630 Course Hours and 1,990 Horticulture Rotation and Internship Hours in order to qualify for graduation.

How many hours of studying can I anticipate?

On horticulture rotation days, students start at 8 a.m. and finish at 4 p.m. On class days, students may start at 10 a.m. and finish at 6 or 9 p.m. Students also can expect to have classes some evenings throughout the year. Some courses require homework and studying outside class hours.

Why are some courses taught in the evenings?

Many courses are taught by our expert Horticulture staff. Due to their daytime schedules, they are only free to teach after 4 p.m.

Is it possible to work part-time while I am a student in the School?

Due to the intense schedule of academic courses and work rotations, in addition to various lectures, field trips, and plant ID walks, it’s nearly impossible to hold a part-time job, find time to study, and stay in good academic standing for the two-year program.

What does one recieve after Graduating from the school?

After successfully completing the program, students receive a Diploma in Horticulture from The New York Botanical Garden.

Housing is available in the Bronx and lower Westchester County within a convenient distance from the Garden. Housing is not provided by the School, and out-of-town and international students are advised to secure housing prior to arriving in New York.

When does orientation start?

Orientation starts the last week in January. New students meet staff and become familiar with the Garden’s philosophies, policies, and facilities. Orientation and special group projects with Horticulture continue through February and March to prepare students for their horticulture rotations in the spring.

Does the school provide computer access?

Computers are available 24 hours a day in the Student Room, M-280. Students may be assigned an NYBG e-mail address if desired. In addition, there is Wi-Fi service in the Watson Building and other buildings on campus.

What study and dining facilities are available to students?

Classrooms and academic facilities are in the Watson and Library buildings. The Student Room is available for meal breaks, studying, drafting, and computer use. Horticulture training is carried out at locations throughout the Garden. The Garden’s Pine Tree Café on Garden grounds is open Tuesdays through Sundays, and students enjoy a 20% discount. The Café serves pizza, panini, salads, snacks, and beverages. The Hudson Garden Grill is a more formal dining option on Garden grounds. There are also several moderately priced diners, cafés, and pizzerias within walking distance of the Garden.

Children looking at a sculpture of a caterpillar with yellow flowers

Everett Children’s Adventure Garden Renovation

Fall 2023 – Spring 2025

The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden (ECAG) renovation project is the first update since the garden was created in 1998. The Children’s Garden is a 12-acre landscape dedicated for families that is safe and fun for kids to explore. The Children’s Garden encourages children and their caregivers to investigate nature through immersive outdoor environments and changing seasonal activities. Families can actively engage in science practices and nature study while exploring a series of lush environments, including a pond, woodland, meadow, and rock outcrops.

Over 175,000 kids and adults visit the Children’s Garden annually. This includes over 18,000 Pre-K–5th grade students who participate in field trips at the site—59.5% of which are from Bronx schools, and 72.3% are from Title I schools.

A talented staff and a corps of energetic teen educators, called the Explainers, bring family-friendly science and nature activities to life. The Explainer Program is an innovative tiered internship that enriches teens’ science knowledge while helping them gain practical work experience, develop problem-solving and interpersonal skills, make connections with adults and peers, and assume leadership roles within their community.

Donate Now

To learn more about how to support this important project at NYBG, including naming opportunities at ECAG, contact Isaac W. K. Thweatt at ithweatt@nybg.org

A wooden gate with colorful ribbons leads into a children's garden

Redevelopment

In Fall 2023, the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden will close for renovations to enhance the outdoor landscape and indoor facilities to reflect current science education pedagogy, specifically regarding STEM and environmental education. In addition, this project will ensure that the Children’s Garden can continue to accommodate the large audiences it serves.

The redevelopment process began in 2012, when NYBG engaged Randi Korn & Associates to undertake a formal evaluation of the outdoor exhibits. Based on this study and after conversations with stakeholders, NYBG developed these goals: To enhance and renovate the landscape and buildings; develop age-appropriate exhibit concepts; enrich learning stations; and improve circulation, way-finding, and visibility.

The redevelopment will provide new nature exploration and authentic science learning opportunities, ensuring that the Children’s Garden continues to provide a welcoming and engaging learning environment that meets today’s outdoor learning standards and visitor expectations. Using the existing topography, along with new signage and enhanced plantings, the redesigned children’s garden will provide nature-based investigations in varied local ecosystems. The redevelopment will also improve access to the Wetland Walk through a boardwalk and viewing platforms and create a dedicated nature space for toddlers and their caretakers. An ADA-accessible Tree Top Walk will provide a series of walkways that lead to the pine tree tops for children of all abilities. Finally, both the existing activity center buildings will receive face-lifts and repairs, as well as upgrades to their lighting and circulation. A new family restroom in the Dodge Activity Center—the first in the Garden—will be accessible to all visitors.

Aerial view of green tree tops, green marsh areas, and top of buildings and pathways of a space that is identified as the Everett Children's Adventure Garden.

Project Timeline

Overview of the timeline from estimated start to estimated finish.

May 1998: The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden (ECAG) opens!
2010: After 12 years of operation, successfully educating over 1.5 million visitors, the Children’s Adventure Garden begins to show wear-and-tear from its popularity.
2011: Gyroscope Inc. conducts focus groups of internal and external stakeholders to help envision a renovated ECAG and the goals of new exhibitry, facilities, and plantings
2012–2013: The Garden receives a grant from The Institute of Museum and Library Services to conduct an evaluation of Adventure Garden programming and begin prototyping new exhibitry ideas
2013: Children’s Education staff visit other children’s gardens and museums across the nation to learn about new and innovative exhibitry and facilities for children
2014: NYBG Capital Projects submits an RFP for the redesign of ECAG’s exhibitry and facilities
2015–2017: The Garden begins work with Metcalfe Architecture & Design on new exhibitry designs and signage, as well as Towers Golde LLC on new landscape designs and plantings
2016–present: NYBG fundraising campaign with City, State, foundations and corporations to restore and support the programmatic and structural needs of ECAG.
2022: ECAG staff prototype new signage to observe audience use and feedback
Fall 2023: ECAG closes to the general public, and programs move to remote locations around the Garden
Winter 2023: Start of construction inside ECAG to introduce nature play exhibitry, new signage and plantings, as well as improvements to the interior aspects of ECAG facilities
Spring 2025: ECAG reopens with new exhibitry, signage, and facilities for children of all ages

Overview of the Renovation map for the Everett Children's Adventure Garden new gardening features and spaces. Highlighting the focus on new areas for young learners, self-directed - an area that ECAG has been a leader in, and facilitated with excellent professionals and the High School Explainer Program.
Wetland Walk is a linear gallery with a boardwalk flanking a wetland where visitors learn about the plants, animals, and birds that are part of the swamp, marsh, and pond ecosystems. Nearly 200' long and with three viewing platforms, it will define a dry path over soggy ground, leading from one ecosystem to the next. Meandering through tall cattails and other native plants, Wetland Walk Boardwalk will allow visitors to get up close to environments that can be difficult to access, and a chance to see things often hidden from view.
The three Seedlings galleries: Circle, Arts and Maze, are linked spaces designed to be a special, protected enclave specifically for the youngest of visitors. Controlled access to all three spaces from one central point in the Circle will provide younger toddlers, infants just learning to crawl and their families with a space to themselves away from older and more active children. Seedlings Circle will be a gathering and seating area with a soft lawn for crawling and a concrete seat wall for caregivers to rest while keeping a watchful eye on their charges.
Seedling Arts will offer ways to make music with instruments made of natural materials. Kids will handle materials like twigs, seeds, stones and flowers to make artistic creations.
Nature play is built into the current configuration of the boulders in this area, with opportunities for climbing, jumping, and exploring between rocks. Rocks of New York State are revealed through signage that will help children learn about the physical properties of rocks, rock identification, and the rock cycle. In this space, kids can become geology scientists while playing and having fun.

A design illustration of the Treetop Walk in the Everett Children's Adventure Garden.
The Treetop Walk is wheel-chair accessible allowing kids of all size and abilities to explore this amazing new addition to the Children’s Garden.
Throughout this elevated structure children can observe and learn about cone-bearing plants, how they survive the harsh winter as an evergreen, and produce seeds using cones.
Kids will have the opportunity to explore above the forest floor surrounded by our native pines, and even climb up to an elevated platform using two flexible bridges for a better view of the trees and the surrounding garden.
The Treetop Walk will provide an adventurous and educational experience for children visiting the renovated Children’s Garden.

With thanks to our generous donors:

City of New York
New York State
LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust
William Randolph Hearst Foundation
Cleveland H. Dodge Foundation
Booth Ferris Foundation
Stavros Niarchos Foundation

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