The Beanstalk Children's Garden

The BEANSTALK Children’s Garden

6917 KensingtonKansas City, MOwww.KCCG.org

816.931.3877

 

Hot Tips

• The garden is open from June 13 until October 3 or the first hard freeze.
• Admission is $2/person. Children 2 and under are free.
• Check the website for hours of operation.
• All paths are paved and stroller friendly.

Perhaps your children think food grows at the grocery store, or maybe they have budding green thumbs. Either way, they’re sure to have fun and learn something at the Children’s Beanstalk Garden.

Before You Go

The garden is open at the height of summer, so plan accordingly. Visit early in the day to beat the heat. Let your children know that they’ll only be able to sample the food clearly marked that it’s ready to pick. Be sure to talk to them about what they expect to find at the garden. Mary Roduner, the children’s gardening coordinator, says the goal of the garden is to “reconnect kids with their food.” You can help them do this by assisting them in finding their favorite fruit or veggie in the garden. Maybe they’ll even be lucky enough to try a fresh sample.

While You’re There

After paying your admission, you might want to borrow a guidebook. The book will fill you in on all the garden details, including some plant history and mythology. Of course, feel free to just explore and delight your senses. You’ll find cotton, corn, pineapples, a gourd house and even a plant that “falls asleep” when touched! Be sure to show your children the root viewing boxes to catch a glimpse of what happens underground. Let your children lead the way around the garden and use the signs to answer their questions. Don’t forget to find something to taste.

After You Leave

Before going home, why not head across the street to Lakeside Nature Center? Search for Lakeside Nature Center at www.KCParent.com and you’ll find all you need to make your visit a success. If your trip to the garden was a hit, plan on going back for the free Fall Family Festival on Sept. 10. Check the garden’s website for more information. Finally, if you don’t already have a garden, visit your local garden center and let your children pick a plant or seeds to take home. You might even plant a beanstalk!

Elizabeth Welter lives and gardens with her family in Olathe.