If you're planning on visiting the Toronto Islands this summer, be sure to stop by the Franklin Children's Garden. Follow the green turtles along the path and you will soon discover this exciting new and free educational garden for kids and families!

The garden was inspired by Franklin the Turtle, the endearing character from the celebrated series of books written by Paulette Bourgeois and illustrated by Brenda Clark. Franklin the turtle has much in common with kids - Franklin fears the dark, tells fibs, has bad days, is afraid of thunderstorms, is messy, acts bossy - he has made an instant connection with kids and parents alike!

The garden gives kids the opportunity to join Franklin and all of his friends, and discover the world of flowers and gardening along with them!

The garden was designed to be a special place, providing kids with an environment to play, learn and discover nature. There is much to see and do everyday! Kids can dig in the dirt, sow seeds and water plants in the Kids Can Press Little Sprouts Garden. They can observe turtles, frogs and birds in the pond and lean all about wetlands. Beyond gardening, kids can take pleasure in listening to magical stories, a free activity at the TD Storybook Place.

And if the kids need to release some energy, they can get lost in the vine tunnel, explore the treehouse, or climb the spiral walkway of the Unilever Snail Trail to the highest point on the Toronto Islands. At the top, binoculars provide a panoramic view of the garden. They can also cool off under a set of watering cans that act as a splash pad. And last but not least, kids can enjoy a visit with bronze statues of their favourite characters. Franklin, Bear, Rabbit, Goose, Beaver, and Snail are all there ready to greet you!

During the calendar year, the Franklin Garden posts special events and activities that families can register for. The calendar of events for 2008 includes: Parent and Jr. Sprouts Spring & Fall Gardening Programs, Garden Adventures Program, Summer Camps, Twilight Storytime, and a Mad Hatter's Tea Party. For more information on special events, visit: www.toronto.ca/parks/franklin/events.  

For more information on the Franklin Children's Garden, call: Access Toronto, 416-338-0338 or visit: www.toronto.ca/parks/franklin.