Youth Educators

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GARDENERS

Gardening can help foster a lifelong love of nature in children. By nurturing living things and witnessing the interconnectedness of plants, pollinators, and the environment, youth develop a respect and appreciation for the natural world.

NATIONAL CHILDREN & YOUTH GARDEN SYMPOSIUM

Reinvigorate your passion to educate a new generation about the importance of gardening by joining our next annual symposium, one of the country’s longest-running and most esteemed gardening conferences for youth educators.

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REGISTER FOR THE 2025 NCYGS

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Other Ways the AHS Supports Educators

Whether you’re a teacher, camp counselor or parent, you’re here because you want to engage children and youth in gardening. These resources should help you plan dynamic lessons and activities to get kids inspired to garden.

Julia Rappaport Growing Gardeners Fund

This fund provides $1,000 to $2,000 annually to one educator to start or expand a garden or gardening science project at their school or community center.
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Growing Good Kids Book Awards

Honoring the best new children’s books about gardening and nature, this award was created by AHS and the Junior Master Gardener program. Explore past winners and the requirements for consideration for this exciting award.
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Offerings for Educators

Discover lesson plans, materials, curriculum, and resources tailored to youth educators.
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Children’s Nature Library and Reading Room and Children’s Garden at River Farm

Located at our River Farm headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, the library is a dynamic space for young readers pre-K through 6th grade featuring over 1,700 children’s books focused on nature and gardening, story time, and fun educational activities. River Farm’s Children Garden, just steps from the library, enriches the experience with opportunities for children to explore gardening and nature in a hands-on setting.
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BENEFITS OF GARDENING FOR KIDS

Provides (fun) exercise
Kids who help grow food are more likely to eat fruits and veggies
Reduces stress and increases attention span