Our approach

Growing Minds Botany is an after-school enrichment program where young learners discover the science of plants through hands-on experiments, observation, and creative exploration.

From dissecting leaves and propagating stems to building orchid terrariums and identifying local species, each week introduces a new way to explore how plants grow, adapt, and interact with their environment. Children will build real-world science skills while learning about Ontario’s native, invasive, and naturalized plants—and why protecting local ecosystems and pollinators matters. Through guided discovery and environmental awareness, we help children deepen their connection to the natural world—mindfully and playfully.

Sneak peek 
What We’ll Explore This Fall

🌿 Week 3: Orchid Air Roots & Water Culture Focus: Children will learn that orchids are epiphytes — plants that grow on trees in the wild instead of in soil. They’ll observe how orchids take in water and nutrients through exposed roots and discuss why soil isn’t always necessary for survival. Hands-On Activity: Removing orchids from substrate, cleaning roots, and starting them in water culture. Care Connection: Students will learn how to top up water, check root health, and keep orchids happy during short-term water culture.

🌱 Week 4: Building a Mini Orchid Terrarium Focus: Students will explore how different materials (rocks, bark, moss, charcoal) create layers in a terrarium that mimic natural conditions. They’ll learn that a terrarium functions as a micro‑ecosystem, recycling moisture and providing a stable environment for their orchid. Hands-On Activity: Repotting the orchid into an open-top terrarium and arranging substrate layers. Each child has the option to take their orchid home at the end of the lesson. Care Connection: Students will discuss terrarium maintenance — how to water sparingly, keep moss healthy, and monitor their orchid’s long-term growth.