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Garden Club
Garden Club is an inclusive group where kids explore, move, create, and learn through hands-on gardening projects. Designed with neurodivergent learners in mind, it’s a welcoming space for children to build confidence, regulation, and life skills while connecting with nature. Monday meet-ups and add-on build days are free for students & families! We ask you come ready to participate and help where you all can! Monthly workshops have a small registration fee to account for supplies and staffing.
Garden Groove offers several opportunities for kids and families to connect with nature and each other. Our goal is simple: Create a garden where all kids and families can learn, play, and grow together.
Monday Group
Designed for homeschool and neurodivergent learners.
We focus on building predictable garden routines, sensory exploration, social time, and simple, hands-on garden projects in a supportive environment.
Add-On Garden & Build Days
Open to everyone! A great time for inclusion and shared projects. Kids of all abilities come together to help care for the garden, build things, and collaborate on community projects. Adult volunteers are welcome and greatly appreciated to help with bigger build projects. Add on days will be announced throughout the season, increasing as the summer ramps up and the garden requires more attention!
Seasonal Weekend Workshops
Open to everyone! These events bring families together for a special garden learning experience. We design them with our neurodivergent friends in mind so everyone can participate and enjoy the space. These workshops are more tailored and focused, so if your child wants to join to be with friends but doesn't love the structure or topic, please contact us about student volunteering!
APRIL Workshop - RAIN & ROOTS
Our workshops are immersive experiences focused on one garden or nature theme. All kids are welcome, and each event is designed with neurodivergent learners in mind. They offer a gentle, welcoming way for kids to explore, create, and connect with nature through a shared activity. This month, each kid will take home a water feature for their garden, and will learn about the water cycle, and setting up a rain barrel.
Workshops have an $18 registration fee. Ages 7-17 will be most appropriate for this program. Students can participate in the workshop, and also take on volunteer roles if they are not as interested in the focused topic, but want to get out in the garden with friends! Contact us directly about student volunteering!
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18 US dollars
Garden Site & Parking Map
600 Independence Blvd Va Beach 23462
Located @ Social Butterflies Club
FAQs
What ages can participate? Garden Club is designed for all children. Volunteer days and group meet-ups are for families, while the workshop series is targeted toward students ages 8-18, but ages can be flexible. If you’re unsure whether your child is a good fit, reach out—we’ll help guide you.
Is Garden Club sensory-friendly? Yes. The garden is designed as a calm, movement-friendly, sensory-supportive space. Children can take breaks, move freely, and participate at their comfort level.
Do parents stay during the session? Parents should stay with their child during volunteer sessions, and during workshops.
What should my child wear? Clothes that can get dirty, wet, or painted on. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Apply sunscreen or bug spray beforehand if needed.
What should we bring? A water bottle and any sensory supports your child prefers (ear defenders, fidgets, communication boards, etc.). All gardening supplies are provided.
What about allergies or medical needs? Please list allergies or medical considerations on your form. We adjust activities as needed.
What happens if it rains? We usually continue in light rain and mud-friendly weather. Heavy rain or storms will result in cancellation or rescheduling, and families will receive an alert by email and/or text.
How big are the groups? We keep groups intentionally small—typically 6–10 children—to support sensory needs, safety, and individualized attention.
Can siblings join? Yes. Siblings within the age range are welcome, and encouraged to join. You can list multiple children on the interest form.
My child struggles with new environments. Can they still join? Absolutely. We welcome all neurotypes and support children with flexible transitions, quiet spaces, and choice-based activities. You ’re welcome to arrive early for extra settling time.
Is there a cost to attend? Garden Club is currently free through the Garden Groove Educational Foundation. Some special workshops may include a small materials fee, which will always be posted ahead of time.
Where do we meet? Location details will be included in your confirmation email. Look for the Garden Groove signs when you arrive.
Garden Club Committee
Help us plan, organize, and put on Garden Club for our students! If you are a motivated adult who loves gardening, working with kids, and creating inclusive community spaces than this committee is perfect for you! Please join today, and visit our Groups page for updated information on meetings and ways you can help!
Join the Garden Club Committee
We’re building a thoughtful committee of adult women who want to help plan, support, and grow our Garden Club programs alongside families and kids.