Nature-Based Field Trips
Field trips are tailored to the needs of your group, so please let us know how we can supplement your lesson plans. All our programs are hands-on and take place outdoors. Students will spend approximately 1.5 hours with a Garden educator and will have additional time to explore the Garden with their chaperones. Groups must include 10 or more students.
Water, Water Everywhere!
(Grades K-12)
Learn about the importance of water for life on our planet! We will explore the water cycle, how water moves through the landscape, and the indicators of clean water in the environment.
Habitat Studies
(Grades K-12)
Put your science skills to work collecting data at the Garden! Habitat studies vary by season, and can focus on forests and trees, insects, pollinators, water, birds and more.
Early American Settlers
(Grades K-12)
Visit our restored homestead, and see how early Americans lived! Step into a log home, try some chores, and explore the different elements that make life possible.
Self-Guided Field Trips
Do you prefer to explore on your own with your students? Register to reserve your spot. You may request Nature Passports or reserve a backpack to enhance your exploration. Contact Education Staff for details.
Field trips are scheduled on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from April 1—October 30. Groups smaller than 20 children may schedule on Fridays. Please schedule at least three weeks in advance. Scholarships are available for qualifying schools.
Interested in learning more? Please fill out this online form. If you have additional questions, please contact Mark Miller, Education Director, at [email protected] or 412-444-4464 x229.
Nature-Based Outreach Program
We can bring a program to your school, day care or facility! Outreach programs are suited for pre-school and early elementary age groups.
Our garden educators will bring a hands-on program to your facility. We will use your classroom, common areas or outdoor spaces to conduct our program. Programs are interactive, STEM focused, and aligned to Pennsylvania State Standards. Choose from a variety of offerings for the program that best suits your needs.
Tops and Bottoms: Edible Plant Parts
(Grades K-12)
Learn about the parts of plants through the common foods we eat. We will explore roots, shoots and seeds, and learn how plants that we eat can be propagated.
The Secret Lives of Seeds
(Pre K-5th Grade)
Seeds hold the key to new plant life. They come in a variety of colors, textures, shapes and sizes. Explore them in a hands-on program, designed to teach children about seeds and the secret lives they lead.
A Primer on Pollination
(Pre K-5th Grade)
Do you think bees are our only pollinator friends? Think again! Moths, butterflies, bees, flies and even bats play a crucial role in the production of the foods and products we rely on. Participants will learn about these creatures and how the pollination process works.
Super Soils
(K-5th Grade)
If you plant a seed, will it grow? It depends on the soil! Learn about the properties of soil, and the organisms that live in it. Participants will get their hands dirty as they examine what makes soil fertile in this exploration of the ground under our feet.
Bird Buddies
(K-3rd Grade)
Explore the lives of the birds in your backyard! Learn what makes birds unique, and explore the different bird species common to Western PA. Participants create a simple bird feeder to hang in their backyard.
Programs are approximately 45 – 60 minutes long.
Outreach programs are available from November through March. We can schedule a visit on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday (please schedule at least two weeks in advance). Scholarships are available for qualifying schools. Please inquire for details.
Interested in learning more? Please fill out this online form. If you have additional questions, please contact Mark Miller, Education Director, at [email protected] or (412) 444-4464 x229.