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Family Fun

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Magic Shrub Activities Kit

The Magic Shrub is a charming fictional story about the early years of Longwood Gardens. In the book, ten-year-old Sam knows a lot about plants, and a little about bullies. When he learns in the fall of 1906 that the property next to his home has been sold and the woods where he has played all his life are in jeopardy, he sets out to learn more. Sam teaches his new neighbor Pierre about the land and the trees. In return, Pierre shares his vision for a garden and along the way helps Sam win over some new friends. The two share a respect for history, the magic found in nature, the vision of a garden, and a friendship that is timeless.

Stop by The GardenShop to pick up a copy of this charming tale!

And, you can now download our new Activities Kit that will help you prepare for an enriching visit to the Gardens.

Click on the links below to download (in pdf format) the accompanying activities kit, teacher's guide and self-guided tour that will entertain your kids in the classroom or at the kitchen table, and during their visit to Longwood.

In order to view the files, you will need to download Adobe Reader (if you do not already have it installed on your computer). Get Adobe Reader.

Teachers Guide
Word Definitions
Know/Want to Learn/Learn Activity
Leaf Matching Activity
Word Search
Word Search Key
Self-Guided Tour
Design Your Own Map Activity

Family Activities

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OrKid Days

February 25 and March 3

Spend the day at Longwood enjoying concerts and hands-on activities for the whole family!

Find out more

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School's Out Mondays

February 20

Kids home from school and looking for something to do? Come to Longwood for a day of family fun focused on the winter garden and birds.

Find out more

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Explore Our Indoor Children's Garden

Meet the Drooling Dragon and other amazing Garden residents! With 17 fountains to enjoy, one-of-a-kind artisan elements and an amazing palette of plants, the garden will delight both young and old.

Find out more

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Light: Installations by Bruce Munro

Opening June 9

Experience Longwood Gardens in a whole new light through the evocative and imaginative art of Bruce Munro, British lighting artist.

Find out more