[Columbia, SC] - Registration begins for Riverbanks’ Junior Master Gardener program, an international youth gardening program, designed to encourage leadership development, personal pride, responsibility and community involvement. The six month program provides children ages 8-13 an opportunity to interact with others and bond with nature through hands-on interactive activities.

“The activities that we teach the children cultivate their minds and encourage them to develop an appreciation for the environment and a love of gardening,” said Amanda Segura, garden education specialist.

The program kicks off on January 3 and meets three times a month on Wednesdays or Saturdays. The program runs from 10:00am to 12:30pm. The Junior Master Gardener program has two different age levels. Level 1 is geared towards children ages 8-10 and level 2 is for children ages 11-13. The session that runs on Wednesdays is geared towards home schooled children. Both sessions cover the same concept.

The mission of the Junior Master Gardener program is to grow good kids by igniting a passion for learning, success and service through a unique gardening education. The program covers plant life, insects, interactions in nature and more. Children can become certified at the end of the program.

Registration runs through November 15. To receive a registration packet please contact asegura@riverbanks.org or call 803.779.8717, ext. 1799. The program cost is $75 per child and covers all expenses for six months. The Junior Master Gardener program is run by volunteers. If you are interested in teaching classes or assisting another leader in the classroom please call 803.779.8717, ext. 1799.