Michigan 4-H Children’s Garden
About the Michigan 4-H Children’s Gardens
The original Michigan 4-H Children’s Garden opened in 1993, as the first garden in the United States developed specifically for the education of young children on a university campus. The Michigan 4-H Children’s Gardens attract more than 100,000 visitors each year and is nationally recognized for its innovative use of technology.
Today, the Michigan 4-H Children’s Gardens have grown to include:
- The original 4-H Children’s Garden featuring 66 themed gardens developed on ½ acre as a part of the Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens;
- The Indoor 4-H Children’s Garden featuring 25 contemporary themed gardens and is home to the annual Butterflies in the Garden exhibit;
- The Smith Schoolyard Demonstration Garden, a companion outdoor garden with 23 themed gardens dedicated to demonstrating science-based learning and education with specific emphasis on pre-K to fifth grade learning themes;
- Programming for these three gardens is anchored by the interactive Curiosity Classroom.
Michigan 4-H Children’s Gardens mission:
- To promote an understanding of plants and the role they play in our daily lives,
- To nurture the wonder in a child’s imagination and curiosity,
- To provide a place of enrichment and delight for children of all ages.
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Through 4-H, I have become the person I am today. Not only has it made me who I am, but has given me lifelong friendships and leaders to look up to. 4-H and everyone I have met through 4-H has fostered my passion for animals and led me to the path I am considering for my future.
— Bridget Paidl, Menominee County
Sponsor a Brick
Become a permanent part of the Michigan 4-H Children's Garden by sponsoring a brick! Bricks can be donated in your name; in honor of a family, friend or club; or in memory of loved ones. Learn more: Sponsor a brick!.