In order to promote the understanding of plants, nurture imagination, and provide a place for the enrichment and delight of children, the Michigan 4-H Children's Garden on the campus of Michigan State University has over 50 theme areas for children to experience. History, purpose, and projects are briefly described. (SAS)

A naturalist and designer of public gardens relates her experiences of introducing children to plants and gardens using equipment such as binoculars, stethoscopes, notebooks, photographs, and magnifying glasses. Article provides information is given about many plants, their uses, and related child-centered activities (such as a namesake pumpkins…

Examines the role of the outdoors in child development. The expanse of outdoors teaches humility, yet does not judge, thereby teaching self-esteem. Nature's diversity teaches that difference is the norm, thereby teaching tolerance. Small nearby places that children favor--trees, brooks, ponds--nurture a sense of home. Early outdoor experiences are…