Discovery Docent Program - Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Discovery Docent Program

Discovery Docent Program

Become a Discovery Docent at Brooklyn Botanic Garden!

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 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. Our Discovery Docents facilitate hands-on science activities throughout the Discovery Garden.

Discovery Docents engage with visitors at an activity station. Photo by Blanca Begert.
Discovery Docents engage with visitors at an activity station. Photo by Blanca Begert.

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

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.

Participation is contingent upon a brief interview and background check.

If you are interested in this program, please visit bbg.org/volunteer. BBG conducts a brief interview with all applicants to ensure they are a good fit.

Fall 2024 Discovery Docent Schedule

September 7–November 15

Docents choose one shift:

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


First Discoveries (toddler program)

  • Wednesdays: September 11–November 13
  • Fridays: September 13–November 15

Discovery Trail (school groups, all ages)

  • Tuesdays: September 24–November 12
  • Thursdays: September 26–November 14

Family Discovery Weekends (all ages)

  • Sundays: September 8–November 3

Additional Shifts:

  • Early Openings for Children of all Abilities: September 21, October 19 | 9–11 a.m.
  • * September training date TBA

  • Saturday, November 2 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Download Program Flyer (PDF)

Image, top of page: Michael Stewart