Children’s Garden
Join us for summer fun and hands-on learning in the Dirt Works Children’s Garden!
WSU Master Gardener & Master Recycler Composter volunteers teach children gardening and environmental science education through fun and creative activities. Young gardeners are introduced to the art and science of gardening while developing community service values.
More information – WSU Thurston County Master Gardener Program
Interested in other gardening and waste reduction programs? Click the button below to subscribe.
Learn in the garden
Each program includes hands-on activities based on a different theme. Activities are designed to promote a love of gardening, develop an appreciation for the environment, and cultivate the mind.
Example activities include:
- Tending and harvesting fruits and vegetables
- Playing garden games
- Storytime
- Take-home crafts
The bounty raised from the garden is donated to the Thurston County Food Bank.
Important Information
Participants must be between 4-12 years old
Parents or guardians must accompany children at all times.
Participants must be Thurston County residents.
This program is designed for individuals/families, no large groups (i.e. day cares, youth camps etc.)
2026 Program Information
- Tuesdays 10 a.m. to noon
- Garden location: Dirt Works Demonstration Garden, 530 Alta Street SW, Olympia WA 98502
- July 21 – Garden Explorers
- July 28 – No class this week. Instead, we’ll be at the Thurston County Fair. Join us there for fun activities.
- August 4 – Eat the Rainbow
- August 11 – Wildlife in the Garden
- August 18 – Miniature Gardening: Fairies and Fun
- August 25 – Rad Recyclers: Slugs, Bugs, and Worms
Questions?
Contact us via phone call or email if you have questions about the Children’s Garden program or registering.
Phone: 360-867-2189
Email: master@co.thurston.wa.us
Registration Information
- Registration is required.
- Each class has a maximum registration of 30 participants.
- Initially we would like to limit registration to two classes per participant. This will allow more children to participate in the program and learn in the garden.
- Those registering between May 1 and June 15 will only be able to register for a maximum of 2 classes per child.
- After June 15, if any spots are still open, you may register for more classes.
- If a class fills, you can add your child’s name to the waitlist. Each class has a separate waitlist.
How to Register
- Registration is required.
- Each child must be registered separately.
- Only those who have registered and have returned the required emergency contact form will be able to participate in the program. No walk-in’s.
- Required emergency contact form will be emailed closer to the date. Emergency contact forms must be completed for each participant and returned prior to your class date.
- When you click the link below, it will take you to our online ticketing platform. This platform is typically used for classes that have fees, so some of the prompts reflect that language. Just click through them. Our Children’s Garden classes are free. Follow the prompts until you receive a confirmation receipt.
Visit our Registration Page to sign up!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact Cori Carlton at cori.carlton@co.thurston.wa.us at least two (2) weeks prior to the event or application deadline.