Native Plant Activities for Kids
Resources for parents and teachers
Take it outdoors
How eco-literate are the children in your life? As adults, each of us can play an important role in connecting today’s kids with the natural world, building a sense of awe, respect for our finite resources, and early environmental stewardship. But in the end, getting outside and learning about nature is just plain fun! See our collection of ideas and resources to get your classroom or family inspired.
Nature Journaling Curriculum
In a set of nested games and activities, the CNPS Nature Journaling Curriculum guides students through the creation of their own field guides, creating treasure maps, poems, and stories along the way. According to the curriculum creator John Muir Laws, the process develops the most important science process skills: observation and documentation.
Ideas and resources

Native plant solo walk
Learn how to enhance a child’s sense of wonder using our downloadable cards and a simple 2-minute walk.

Easy botanical activities
From scavenger hunts to rainy-day tabletop activities, these games are sure to delight the young botanists in your life!
Botanical word puzzles
Created by CNPS fellow Betsey Landis, these puzzles come with fun facts on topics from chaparral to butterflies!

Field trip ideas

School Gardens
Considerations and tips for starting a native plant garden at your school. Here’s how to set yourself up for success!
Become a Member!
Join a community that values education and the natural world! Membership comes with free subscriptions to Flora magazine and Fremontia journal.
Latest news and stories
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How do native plants support native wildlife in the cities where most Californians live? A new statewide effort aims to answer this question by deepening our understanding of these interspecies connections.
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7 Holiday Gift Ideas for Native Plant Lovers
Shopping for the holidays is now easier and more sustainable with the CNPS guide to 7 gifts for native plant lovers. -
Breaking Barriers: Student Research Grant Recipient Selena Vengco on Changing the Field
Selena Vengco is safeguarding the future of the rare Erythranthe discolor through conservation research.

