Youth Farm & Garden Camp - Hands-On Summer Learning (Ages 8-15)

Hands-on youth farm and garden sessions just 10 minutes from Atlanta! Explore soil, seeds, and sustainability with expert Maurice Small.

Youth Farm & Garden Camp - Hands-On summer Learning (Ages 8-15) - Parents/Guardians on site for 14 and under

(3-day summer sessions include 3 hours on Tues, Weds, & Thurs - 9 hours total)

This hands-on summer experience takes place on Maurice Small’s 3-acre farm, just 5 minutes from Village Park in Ellenwood, GA. The program invites young growers to explore seeds, soil, worms, and edible gardening through fun, outdoor activities.

Purchase 1 ticket per child to attend for 3 days during the week (or purchase multiple tickets for multiple weeks) of your choice. Purchase the ticket(s) for the date(s) of the week(s) you choose (one ticket includes 3 days of programming).

Over three days, students will build practical skills in gardening and ecology while deepening their connection to nature. Each session adapts to the season, weather, and students’ curiosity.

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• Day 1: Discover & Dig In (Tuesday 9:30am-12:30pm) – Explore the farm, learn about soil, compost, and plant life cycles.
• Day 2: Grow & Explore (Wednesday 9:30am-12:30pm) – Tend crops, observe pollinators, and explore the role of water on the farm.
• Day 3: Harvest & Celebrate (Thursday 9:30am-12:30pm) – Taste what’s growing, reflect on the experience, and take home some plants to nurture.

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Note: All activities will be adapted to student interests, the weather, the growing season that the farm is in and what is most aligned with student curiosity.

Perfect for beginners or budding gardeners, this program leaves youth inspired and ready to grow anywhere! Attend one or multiple sessions... Each one is unique!

About The Instructor

Maurice Small is a dynamic educator and youth mentor who inspires the next generation through hands-on learning, curious conversations, and scientific exploration in the garden and on the farm.

Based in Atlanta, GA, Maurice brings over 25 years of experience in growing food, building healthy soil, and cultivating sustainable food systems. As a Waldorf faculty member and parent, he champions experiential education that connects youth to the living world. Maurice is also a recipient of the Rodale Organic Pioneer Award, a board member of Southern SARE, and a founding member of the Farmer x Farmer Coalition—recognized nationally for his deep agricultural knowledge, warmth, and community-rooted approach.

Program Details & FAQs

Location

All sessions take place at our 3-acre farm in Ellenwood, GA—just 5 minutes from Village Park. The exact address will be emailed to registered families 2–3 days before the first class.

Who Can Participate

This program is for youth ages 8-15. Please note: participants age 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who remains on-site during the session.

Please note: A minimum of 4 registered students is required for each session to run. Registered families will be notified with additional information if the minimum enrollment is not met.

Safety Guidelines

Because this program takes place on a working farm, safety is a top priority. All students and accompanying adults will be introduced to farm etiquette. Key guidelines include:

• Stay with the farmer at all times.
• Children must be supervised.
• Follow directions carefully.
• Respect yourself, others, and the environment.

What to Bring

• Reusable water bottle
• Healthy snack (optional)
• Small notebook and pencil

What to Wear

We’ll be outdoors the entire time—rain or shine! Dress accordingly:

• Closed-toe shoes or boots
• Layered clothing for changing weather
• A hat for sun protection
• Optional garden glovesNote: We do not spray for mosquitoes—please apply bug spray before arriving.

Illness Policy

If your child has experienced any of the following symptoms within 36 hours of class, please stay home to rest:

• Cough
• Sneezing/runny nose
• Fever (99°F or higher)
• Vomiting/nausea
• Sore throat
• Fatigue or body aches

We’ll do our best to offer a make-up session when possible, but it is not guaranteed.

Weather Policy

We’ll meet in most weather—sun, rain, or wind! However, in the event of severe conditions (e.g., hurricane, tornado, or high winds), class will be canceled and a make-up date will be offered. If you’re unable to attend the rescheduled session, that class will be forfeited.

Arrival & Parking

Please arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before your session. We’ll be preparing the space prior to that time. Follow the posted parking signs, and a host will greet you upon arrival.

Required Forms

A completed Liability Waiver is required 2 days before the first day of your session. A link to the form is provided by email. If you did not receive it, please contact us and we’ll resend it.

Refund/Cancellation Policy

We offer full refunds for cancellations made at least 7 days before the first day of your scheduled program. If you need to cancel within 7 days of the start date, we will do our best to reschedule you based upon availability.