Seed to Seedling

Project-based learning and free resources for educators to inspire the next generation of tree stewards

By growing acorns into native oak seedlings, students experience firsthand the magic of nature while they learn about trees, science, and how to be good stewards of the earth. These children get to witness the lifecycle of our urban forest and play an important role in reforesting our native oak habitats.

Sign-ups for the 2023-2024 school year are now closed, however, all are welcome to use the free curriculum, activities, and resources below. Check back next fall to reserve a free seedling kit for your group. Please contact seedtoseedling@sactree.org for any questions.

A class of elementary school students proudly raise the oak seedlings they grew from acorns
Fun for kids, free for teachers

The Seed to Seedling program is a fun, hands-on way to get kids involved with their natural world. It is a set of lessons for grades K-6 that focus on the natural and cultural history of California’s native oaks and the importance of our urban forest. The program goes beyond the basics, providing students with hands-on science and stewardship activities.

These lessons are a perfect fit for every type of educator and educational setting:  virtual learning, in-class learning, homeschooling, after-school programs, troop leaders, and community-based educators. As educators, you can pick and choose lessons that are most interesting to you and your students, and shape them any way you would like.

We provide the following free of charge:

  • Planting materials - pots, soil, trays, and acorns (optional)
  • Curriculum, resources, and activities for you to choose from
  • Planting guidance and support as needed
A Girl Scout holds up an acorn she found

Download our free project-based learning curriculum

Find lessons, reading selections, hands-on activities, and resources for teachers and K-6 students.

Popular resources

Instructions & how-tos
Favorite reading selections for students

Continue the story

Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes many dedicated people to steward the urban forest throughout its lifecycle. From seed to slab, we have volunteer and educational opportunities for you and your students to get involved and learn hands-on about the trees that make our neighborhoods livable and lovable.