Outdoor Lab Programs

TEKS-aligned outdoor lab programs are offered for 3^rd–6^th grade on-site in the Main Garden. We also offer seasonal programs for Kinder–2^nd grade.

• Monday–Friday
• $12 per child | 1:8 teacher/chaperone free
• $15 per additional chaperone
• Children’s Adventure Garden access included

We book sessions based on 25 students per class.

Texas Native Plant Lab

3rd – 6th Grade

From plains to the coast, and mountains and basins, Texas is home to a great diversity of flora. This program focuses on plants which are specially adapted to survive in diverse ecosystems. Through hands-on investigations utilizing digital equipment, students refine their scientific observation skills while exploring cacti, succulents, grasses and wildflowers in this educational garden. Get up close and personal with some of our state’s most fascinating plants! Email education@dallasarboretum.org to confirm availability.

TEKS:
3.1(A), 3.2(D), 3.2(F), 3.3(B), 3.4(A), 3.9(A), 3.9(C), 3.10(A)
4.1(A), 4.2(B), 4.2(D), 4.2(F), 4.3(B), 4.4(A), 4.9(A), 4.10(A)
5.1(A), 5.2(C), 5.2(D), 5.2(F), 5.4(A), 5.9(A), 5.9(C), 5.10(A), 5.10(B)
6.1(A), 6.2(C), 6.2(E), 6.3(B), 6.3(C), 6.4(A), 6.12(A), 6.12(C), 6.12(D), 6.12(E)

NGSS Crosscutting Concepts: Patterns, Systems and System Models, Structure and Function, Stability and Change

Nature’s Works of Art

3rd – 6th Grade

The beauty and wonder of trees and flowers have enchanted artists for centuries. In this Arboretum educator-led program, students will explore color, shape and texture in nature and investigate the artistic skills used in a variety of jobs at the Arboretum.

Art TEKS:
3.1(B), 3.3(C)
4.1(B), 4.3(C)
5.1(B), 5.3(C)
MS 1 1(B), 3(D)

NGSS Crosscutting Concepts:
Patterns, Scale, Proportion and Quantity, Structure and Function

Christmas Village Guided Tour

K – 2nd Grade
Available November 9 – December 22

Take a trip around the world this winter without leaving Texas! Explore the Arboretum’s Pauline and Austin Neuhoff Family Christmas Village while students learn about winter traditions from across the globe that have found their way to Texas. Discover traditional food and music as well as cultural meanings of winter flowers and plants from our state and beyond. Connect with your favorite winter traditions this year at the Dallas Arboretum.

Science TEKS:
K.8(C)
1.8(B), 1.8(C)
2.8(B)

Social Studies TEKS:
K.5(B), K.11(A), K.12(B)
1.1(B), 1.6(C), 1.15(A)
2.1(B), 2.16(A), 2.16(B)

NGSS Crosscutting Concepts:
Patterns, Cause and Effect, Systems and System Models