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The Seeds of Wonder Children's Garden became the West Coast's first interactive children's garden when it opened to the public in April of 2003. Designed by a carefully recruited team of talented professionals, this one-of-a-kind garden will serve as a preview for the acre-plus San Diego Children's Garden , a component of Quail Botanical Garden's master plan for expansion, tentatively slated for completion in 2009. (click here for UT article on Seeds of Wonder) Seeds of Wonder designer Dugmore Design Studio, received an Honor Award from the San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).
The Seeds of Wonder garden includes such delights as living topiaries, a grassy "rolling hill," an exotic Baby Dinosaur Forest, a Farmyard area, and the "Secret Garden," as well as sculpture and interactive nature-play features. It is located at the southwest corner of the main parking lot, near the Ecke administration building. In July of 2005, a family restroom was built adjoining the children's garden featuring a child-size commode and a roof planted in succulents.
The Seeds of Wonder Children's Garden features many ongoing and special family events.
In 2000, the trustees and staff of QBG drew upon the inspiration of Jane L. Taylor, the creator of the nationally acclaimed 4-H Club Children's Garden at Michigan State University, and began planning Seeds of Wonder . Ms. Taylor was a key member of the Children's Garden Design Committee at Quail Gardens.
Over the last decade, children's gardens have gained popularity across the country, as many teachers, parents and others have voiced concern that in this day and age children have little opportunity to explore the wonders of nature.
Ongoing programs complimenting the new children's garden are rotated periodically. Most are geared toward children ages 18 months through 6 years old, although all ages are welcome. Ongoing programs are free with regular garden admission and pre-registration is not required unless otherwise noted.
| Every Tuesday: Tales and Tunes 10 AM - Noon |
| Children and their caregivers participate in stories, songs and hands-on pre-school activities. Story time begins at 10:30. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas and New Years Day. |
| Every Wednesday: Garden Arts and Crafts 10 AM - Noon |
| Children may pot plants and participate in a variety of arts and crafts. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas & New Years Day. |
| 1st & 3rd Thursday: Garden Day 10 AM - Noon |
| Children and parents will do a little gardening, learn about plants and seeds, listen to a story, and pot plants to take home. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas & New Years Day. |
| 2nd & 4th Thursday: Worms, Wings, and Crawly Things 10 AM - Noon |
| Children will discover the bugs and other creatures that live in our garden. Preschoolers will participate in special science activities from 10:30 - 11am. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas & New Years Day. |
| 2nd Friday of each Month: Friday Fun! 10 AM - Noon. |
| Children and parents may participate in a variety of fun, garden-oriented activities. Presented in cooperation with the SD County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas and New Years Day. |
| 1st Saturday of every month: Saturday Arts and Crafts 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM |
| Children may pot plants and participate in a variety of arts and crafts. Not held on rainy days or the week between Christmas & New Years Day. |
Cancellations
Special Events
In addition to the ongoing programs, there are special events from time to time requiring pre-registration. The Seeds of Wonder may also be reserved for school visits and Birthday Parties.
Lunch with Bunny, April 8.
Young children can visit with our big, gentle bunny.
(THERE ARE NO MORE SPACES AVAILABLE)
The Seeds of Wonder Children's Garden is the perfect place for a memorable school outing or child's birthday party. We will work with you to provide an exciting and educational experience. We reserve the garden for your group, help you plan activities, and set up for the visit or party.
We recommend you schedule your visit or party at least a month in advance, as our calendar fills up quickly. For fees and further information, please call 760-436-3036 x206.
Maybe you or someone you know could help provide Seeds of Wonder with the following...
- Dawn dishwashing liquid for bubble play
- Sharpie pens
Check with the administrative assistant for other needed items at 760-436-3036 x206.
Often in the excitement of exploring the Gardens children's clothing and toys are left behind. Please call 760-436-3036 x206 if your child is missing something after a trip to the Gardens.
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