Youth Education
For over a decade, Denver Urban Gardens has worked in partnership with Denver Public Schools, Slow Food Denver and Learning Landscapes to establish gardens at schools. Of DUG’s 100+ community gardens, nearly 30 are located on the grounds of DPS Elementary Schools, with 1-3 new school gardens in various stages of planning each year. The expansion includes requests to accommodate the needs of older students in middle and high school. DUG is committed to supporting each community garden in ways appropriate to that garden’s particular needs, including developing a partnership between the school community and surrounding neighbors to strengthen garden sustainability.We believe the lessons offered in a garden are life changing for children of all backgrounds, but in particular, those from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Through the wonders of a garden, students experience hands-on lessons in: biology and ecology, horticulture, wellness and nutrition, recycling, composting, and community building. In support of school gardens, DUG offers an integrated nutrition and gardening curriculum to school communities.
Denver Urban Gardens' resources and programming in school garden and nutrition education include:
- School Garden and Nutrition Curriculum
Our seasonal approach to teaching builds a bridge for students between gardening, nutrition and science using standards-aligned lessons for the classroom and the garden.
- Connecting Generations Volunteer Mentor Program
We believe the effectiveness of our work in school gardens is enhanced when it is supported by a committed group of volunteers, which might include on-site community gardeners, parents, grandparents or neighbors.
- Helping Kids Get Healthy: A Workshop Series For Youth Educators
This ongoing workshop series is designed for teachers and volunteers who want to incorporate lessons in nutrition and gardening into their curriculum. Our next workshop is on October 25th.
- Youth Farmers' Markets
In partnership with Slow Food Denver, Denver Urban Gardens works with local schools to coordinate youth-run farmers' markets.
Upcoming events in Youth Education:
- Helping Kids Get Healthy: A Workshop Series for Youth Educators
Thursday, May 10th, 5:00 - 7:00pm
Prepare for your summer youth garden program at this workshop. We will discuss best practices, learn fun and simple garden activities and share ideas and challenges with other program coordinators and DUG staff. Register here!
Also see:
Denver School Garden Coalition
Garden to Cafeteria
