Self-guided Program

Self-guided field trips are suitable for students of all ages and are available year-round.

  • +Adaptation Exploration

    Grades: 2-7

    Adaptations are features, traits, or characteristics that help an organism survive and thrive in its environment, and can be classified as structural or behavioral.

    Students will understand:

    • Living things have adaptations that help them survive and reproduce in their environment
    • Adaptations can be either structural or behavioral
  • +A Sense of Spring

    Grades: K-3

    This self-guided program takes you to some of the more spectacular parts of the Garden in the spring season. Exact blooming times are in the hands of Mother Nature, so you may find not everything will be in bloom while you visit.  As you walk along, be sure to look way up and way down so as not to miss any of the beauty unfolding.

  • +Art in the Garden

    Grades: 3-7

    Explore themes of art and nature, view artworks and practice artistic techniques in the beautiful outdoor setting of VanDusen Botanical Garden. This program provides background information on several of the artworks in the Garden as well as activities, discussion points, and extension projects to try back in the classroom.

  • +Biodiversity Detectives

    Grades: 2-7

    Biodiversity is important! A variety of living things allows ecosystems to maintain critical ecological services – like providing clean water and air.  Biodiversity ensures resilience during natural disasters and preserves the ability of species and ecosystems to evolve under changing conditions.

    Students will understand:

    • Living things are diverse, can be grouped, and interact in their ecosystems
    • Biodiversity is critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems