Winter 2010

LET YOUR CHILD GROW WITH HARVEST GARDEN

REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR SPRING SEASON


Release Date: 04/01/09

The Chicago Park District has the perfect program for little garden enthusiasts. Harvest Garden is kicking off its spring session on May 4 at 16 parks across Chicago.

“The HarvestGarden program is a great way for children to learn about plants, gardening and the importance of nature in a hands-on environment,” said Timothy J. Mitchell, general superintendent of the Chicago Park District.

Harvest Garden teaches children, 8-12 years old, how to start an organic garden and keep it growing, how to harvest and use the produce and then how to “put the garden to bed” for the winter. Participants can prepare foods that they grow and participate in a variety of activities related to their gardens including crafts, music and cooking. This year the program focuses on teaching children nutrition and healthy eating from the garden.

The HarvestGarden’s spring session, which is a five-week program, runs May 4 – June 5. The after-school program is in session between the hours of 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The program, which also has an eight-week summer session and a five-week fall session, is offered at 16 parks:

  • Abbott Park, 49 E. 95thSt. – (312) 747-6001
  • Amundsen Park, 6200 W. Bloomingdale Ave. – (312) 746-5003
  • Anderson Park, 3748 S. Prairie Ave. – (312) 747-6007
  • Chase Park, 4701 N. Ashland Ave. – (312) 742-7518
  • Clark (John S.) PlaygroundPark, 4615 W. Jackson Blvd. – (773) 287-7794
  • Columbus Park, 500 S. Central Ave. – (773) 287-7641
  • Cooper Park, 1323 W. 117thSt. – (312) 747-6096
  • Ken-Well Park, 2945 N. Kenosha Ave. – (773) 685-3348
  • Lindblom Park, 6054 S. Damen Ave. – (312) 747-6443
  • Mann Park, 13000 S. Carondolet Ave. – (773) 646-0210
  • Minuteman Park, 5940 S. Central Ave. – (773) 284-0214
  • Moore Park, 5085 W. Adams St. – (773) 287-0561
  • Moran Park, 5727 S. Racine Ave. – (312) 747-6560
  • Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St. – (312) 746-5494
  • Valley Forge Park, 7001 W. 59thSt. – (773) 229-0812
  • Washington Park, 5531 S. Martin Luther King Drive – (773) 256-1248

During the summer session, HarvestGarden participants exhibit their produce, compete for prizes and participate in county fair themed activities at the Harvest Garden Festival scheduled for July 30 this year.

The public can register now for HarvestGarden by calling the local parks listed above. Registration is ongoing until filled. Costs vary by park and range from free to $5 per student.

  • Contact Phone: 312 742 7529
  • Publication Date: 04/02/09