Parks, gardens and community centres around Toronto offer nature and eco programming for kids of all ages.

At the High Park Children’s Garden and Teaching Kitchen, children and youth can participate in organic gardening, nature education and healthy cooking programs.

The Children’s Garden and Teaching Kitchen is located within High Park.

Hours

  • Children’s Garden: dawn to dusk
  • Teaching Kitchen: only open during programs

Registered Programs

  • Summer and March Break Day Camps
  • Vegetarian Cooking Programs
  • Gardening and Nature Programs

Drop-In Programs

Watch Me Grow Family Drop-In Program

  • July and August
  • Thursdays
  • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • No registration needed. Just stop by.

Other Programs

  • Curriculum-Based School Programs
  • Family Garden Drop-In Programs
  • Birthday Parties

Contact

Email kidsgrow@toronto.ca for more information.

City staff lead one-hour tree tours and nature-focused presentations for students and community groups.

The programs are available year-round, subject to availability. Tours and sessions are free.

Learn more about Forestry Talks and Tours.

Camp Claireville

Campers will spend fun-filled days enjoying camp activities in an amazing natural setting, while also participating in traditional camp activities.

Camp Humriva

Humriva Day Camp is located along the Humber River (Lambton Valley) and it provides a unique outdoor camp experience in a natural setting within the city.

Forest Valley Outdoor Education Centre

For over 60 years, Forest Valley Outdoor Education Centre staff have passed down its best-loved traditions to campers who gain a greater awareness of and appreciation for nature and the environment.

High Park Eco Camp

This is an active fun-filled camp for kids who love being outdoors. From organic gardening to nature exploration and hiking, there is so much that awaits your junior camper.

The City’s outdoor day camps are accredited by the Ontario Camps Association (OCA).

How to Get There

Take the Centre Island ferry from the Jack Layton Terminal at 9 Queens Quay. After disembarking, turn left toward Avenue of the Island, walk along it about 500m until you reach The Mall. Find the garden next to the Toronto Island Nature School.

Activities

An interactive garden on Toronto Island Park, the Franklin Children’s Garden is divided into seven sections where children can enjoy gardening, storytelling, exploring wildlife and visiting seven child-accessible sculptures from the Franklin the Turtle series.

Franklin Children’s Garden is designed for self-guided exploration and discovery and is open seven days a week. Listed below are programs, events and daily activities offered throughout the summer.

Drop-in at Little Sprouts Garden

Drop in at Little Sprouts Garden between 1 to 4 p.m. daily in July and August for fun kids’ craft projects with creative outdoor themes.

Island Recreation Adventures with Caregiver

Spend a half-day as a Parent/Guardian with a child at Franklin Children’s Garden. Activities include storytelling, bug identification, organic gardening, nature studies and crafts.

The High Park Nature Centre is a charitable organization that promotes awareness and respect for nature through year-round, hands-on outdoor nature education and park stewardship.

CampTO Plus has nature-focused options and some activities can be found on Arts, Hobbies and Interests.