Discovery Docent Program

Discovery Docent Program

Are you a nature lover who enjoys engaging with children?

Would you like to share your curiosity about plants and nature with your community in a beautiful outdoor setting?

Become a Discovery Docent at Brooklyn Botanic Garden!

We are looking for volunteers to join our Summer 2022 Discovery Docent Program. Docents engage with visitors of all ages in the Discovery Garden, a one-acre hands-on children’s garden at BBG. Docents lead different activity stations around the garden, interacting with visiting families and school and camp groups.

Kids excitedly look at the plants on the table tended by two docents
Discovery Docents engage with visitors at an activity station. Photo by Blanca Begert.

Our Discovery Docents facilitate hands-on science activities throughout the Discovery Garden. No prior knowledge is necessary—all that’s needed is an interest in nature, a willingness to grow and learn, and a friendly team attitude. BBG conducts a brief interview with all applicants to ensure they are a good fit.

Join an enthusiastic group of young adults, seniors, career changers, and students who are passionate about sharing their enthusiasm for nature with the community.

Interested?

For more information contact Karen Wylie, manager of the Discovery Garden and Family Programs, at [email protected] or 718-623-7284.

Responsibilities & Fall 2022 Dates

Docents are asked to commit to one three-hour shift at the same time each week for the season. (We are happy to work around conflicts that come up for one or two sessions.) Each shift includes helping with setup and cleanup, learning about the activities, and doing a team wrap-up. Docents must be comfortable working outdoors in various kinds of weather.

Docents choose one shift:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Sunday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

  • Discovery Carts (all ages):
    Tuesdays, September 27; October 4, 11, 18, 25; November 1 (5 sessions + 1 training)

    OR
    Thursdays, September 29; October 6, 13, 20, 27; November 3 (5 sessions + 1 training)

  • First Discoveries (toddler program):
    Wednesdays, September 7, 14, 21, 28; October 5, 12, 19, 27; November 2 (8 sessions + 1 training)

    OR
    Fridays, September 9, 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14, 21, 28; November 4 (8 sessions + 1 training)

  • Family Discovery Weekends (all ages):

    Sundays, September 11, 18, 25; October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (7 sessions + 1 training)

Download Program Flyer (PDF)

Image, top of page: Antonio M. Rosario