Listed below are topics available for children’s programs offered by Penn State Master Gardeners.
Most programs are appropriate for elementary school children and most last about 20 minutes, although some of the craft programs require additional time, so be sure to ask for a program description. A teacher or supervising adult from the agency must be present during presentations. Some programs (*) may have a small materials fee. Other programs are free of charge, but donations to offset the cost of supplies are greatly appreciated. Donation checks should be made payable to "Penn State Extension t" and can be given directly to the volunteer. Some programs are more appropriate for certain age groups than others. When contacting your county office, be sure to indicate the number and ages of the children, how much time they will have, and if there are any special concerns.
Our Master Gardeners give talks throughout Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Please call the Lehigh County office at 610-391-9840 or the Northampton County office at 610-813-6613 for more information.
* These programs have a materials fee. Ask the Master Gardener teaching the program about the fee and payment method when scheduling the class.
Themed Gardens
Butterfly Gardens
Do you know what a caterpillar and a butterfly have in common? Let's learn about the life cycle of a butterfly and what we can do to attract them into our gardens.
Eat a Rainbow
Children will be introduced to a variety of fruits and vegetables. They will learn that common vegetables sometimes come in unusual colors and they will be encouraged to "Eat a Rainbow" of colors. (Eat a Rainbow can be used as a display or as a group presentation. Detailed lesson plans are included for both options.)
Gardening for Wildlife
Moss in the Garden
A world in miniature waiting to be discovered. Learn the secrets of these tiny plants and see some of the many kinds of moss that can grow in your garden.
Plant the Perfect Pizza
All About Bugs and Crawling Critters
Beneficial Insects
When you think of beneficial insects you think of the good guys. They work as predators, parasites, and pollinators to help protect our plants and gardens.
Good Bugs/Bad Bugs Matching Game
They're creepy, crawly, frightening and naughty, but not all bugs are bad bugs. It's the destructive, pesky, disease-carrying bugs that bug us. Learn which bugs are naughty or nice.
Ladybugs
Not only are they cute and fun to watch, but they are welcomed guests in our gardens.
Spiders -- Search the Web
Get to know our friend, the spider. Learn the role they play in our gardens and lots of fun facts.
Amazing Earthworms
Going Green
Composting for Kids
A PowerPoint presentation on the basics of composting with a question and answer game to teach kids to distinguish between the "brown" and "green".
Soil!
A PowerPoint presentation on soil basics with a demonstration on soil tests and edible dirt cups (gummy worms, pudding and cookies).
Made with Plants
Teaches about everyday items that are made with plants, such as T-shirts made from cotton plants.
Plant Science Basics
Meet the Plants - One-hour presentation that allows children to explore the parts of a plant. Why are stems important? What do roots do? Are flowers just pretty? Children also get to plant seeds.
Tree Identification
How to identify trees and learn about tree facts. If possible, outside session can follow classroom portion.
Nature Crafts
Dried Flower Crafts *
Terrariums *
Gardens under glass are easy to make and lovely to look at up close. Watch a demonstration and learn how to make your own.
Treats from the Herb Garden*
Oh the treats you can make from the herb garden - from refrigerator dill pickles to herb-flavored cookies. Learn how to use herbs in cooking and try making fresh salsa.
Something Different
Colonial Herbs
Travel back to the early days of our country to discover how herbs were used in everyday life. Meet Miss Rebecca in period costume, who remains in character for the entire presentation. Presentation lasts 20 minutes.
