I’ll never forget the first time I truly saw my little adventurer, just learning to walk, completely mesmerized by the world around him. We were wandering through the park when his tiny hand shot out and plucked a bright red autumn leaf from the ground. He turned it over in his fingers like it was the most precious treasure, eyes wide with pure wonder. In that moment, it hit me: this is exactly the perfect time to start nurturing a love for nature.
Environmental education can start as early as the toddler years—and honestly, that might be the perfect time. Little ones are naturally curious about everything: bugs, rocks, trees, puddles—you name it! Their wide-eyed wonder makes it easy (and fun) to start building a real connection to the natural world. Sometimes that’s as simple as watching ants march across the pavement, planting a few seeds in a pot, or jumping into a good, squishy puddle. These tiny moments of hands-on discovery are where environmental awareness begins.
The playful learning outdoors sparks more than just curiosity—it nurtures empathy. Empathy for animals, for plants, for the Earth itself. And it’s not just my child who benefits. I’ve felt it, too. As a geologist and a parent, reconnecting with nature has become a grounding and joyful part of our daily rhythm.
Brno is full of beautiful spots where children can explore, learn about sustainability, and build that early bond with the natural world. Below are a few of our favourite places—ones we’ve returned to again and again during our parental leave adventures. They’ve become our little oases, and I hope they’ll spark some green joy for your family, too.
Hlidka SEV: Animals, Gardens & Playroom (all year round) ↗
Located in a beautifully restored baroque building just below Špilberk Castle, Hlídka offers a magical combination of nature education, play, and community. It’s especially perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, with classes that help children build a gentle and curious connection to the world around them. The centre also organizes various educational events for the public. The easiest access for strollers is from Husova street, winding up through the trees to a cozy, welcoming space. OPEN TIME is all year round, Mon-Friday 9am-5pm.
At Hlídka, little ones can meet and care for animals, explore gardens full of learning tools, and join engaging classes that make nature feel like the best playground ever. Zephyros said his first animal words here and still lights up every time we visit. One of the most popular classes is ”Visit the Animals”, where kids can feed, pet, and even hold friendly exotic creatures while learning fun facts along the way. It’s hands-on, calm, and full of wonder—especially for tiny animal lovers.
We also joined the Play Smart English class for children 1.5 +, led by the wonderful teacher Klára Sladká. She brings so much energy and warmth, adapting to each child and turning every session into a little adventure. Watching Zephyros build his confidence, learn new words has been incredibly rewarding. Beyond that, Hlídka offers a variety of fun and educational activities: yoga, singing, movement games, and even a preparatory kids group for those soon heading off to kindergarten. Many of the courses fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to register early—June is usually the key time for sign-ups. There’s even a multimedia hall where schools come for lectures and activities, which makes the whole place feel like a living, breathing learning hub.
The centre itself is beautifully thought out. There’s a cozy nursery space with a playroom, a room full of friendly animals, a simple kitchen, and a beautiful garden with tools and play features that invite discovery (read more here)
Right in the heart of Brno, just a short stroll from the Obilní trh maternity hospital and nestled beneath the slopes of Špilberk Castle, there’s a little green oasis that feels like a hidden gem: the Open Garden. From April to October, Monday-Sunday 10am-6:30pm this enchanting space opens its gates to families, school groups, and curious wanderers, offering a unique mix of play, learning, and fresh air. For visitors with strollers, note that the main entrance is very steep and suitable only for empty strollers; the easier, barrier-free access is from the Špilberk side, about 100 m up the hill.
Run by the Partnership Foundation—a leading voice for sustainable living in the Czech Republic—the Open Garden is more than just a beautiful park. The Foundation’s office buildings on-site are among the most energy-efficient in Europe. Built to passive house standards, they run on solar power, are heated and cooled using eight wells and four heat pumps, and feature green roofs that collect rainwater. Even greywater gets a second life through a specially designed wetland filtration system. In 2023, the complex proudly received the prestigious Climate Star certification, and it’s easy to see why—everything here works in harmony with nature.
The Open Garden is made up of three main parts: a passive building with smart, sustainable technologies and a lush green roof, the hands-on Garden of the Four Elements, and the charming Borromean Garden with its mini urban farm.
There’s something truly magical about wandering through the Garden of the Four Elements. On warm days, kids can cool off by splashing in the water zone, all while learning about how rivers flow, how wind is generated (and where we can use it), the difference between sunlight and artificial light, why waste sorting matters now more than ever, and even how soil is formed. It’s science through play, and kids soak it up without even realizing they’re learning.
Then there’s the Borromean Garden, which feels like stepping into a storybook. It gently introduces children to plant life cycles, composting, and the rhythms of the natural world, all with a touch of old-world charm. Friendly goats, clucking chickens, and fluffy rabbits round out the experience—ready for gentle pets and handfuls of food. There’s plenty of space to run, climb, observe, and imagine. And when it’s time to recharge, parents can unwind with a lemonade or coffee while the kids keep exploring. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and you’re reminded just how good it feels to be outside.
Throughout the season, the garden bursts with life, offering something for everyone. Schools enjoy engaging educational programs, families can explore thematic events, and visitors of all ages can take part in workshops, professional seminars, guided tours of the gardens and passive building technologies, as well as inspiring exhibitions and openings. Thanks to recent renovations, the garden feels fresher, more inviting, and more fun than ever before.
One of our absolute favorite family traditions is the Pumpkin Festival. As autumn paints the garden in warm hues, the air fills with the aroma of pumpkin soup simmering, freshly baked cakes, and rich, comforting coffee. Children and parents alike dive into pumpkin carving and creative workshops, theatre, while the cheerful sounds of live music make the atmosphere magical. The festival is a perfect celebration of autumn, creativity, and family joy, leaving everyone with warm memories and happy hearts.
Lipka ↗
Lipka is one of the oldest and largest environmental education centers in the Czech Republic, with five unique branches in and around Brno: Lipová, Kamenná, Rozmarýnek, Rychta, and Jezírko. Each location offers a rich variety of programs designed to inspire people of all ages to care for the natural world.
From nature camps and creative workshops to bat-watching trips, garden festivals, and community events, Lipka blends education, play, and environmental awareness into every experience. Whether you’re a student, teacher, parent, or simply curious about the world around you, there’s something here for everyone.
We visited the Kamenná branch during their Open Garden event last summer. The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming—I was greeted with homemade lemonade and a warm smile, then guided into the lush herbal garden. Lucie Poppová handed me scissors and invited me to cut herbs to take home. The scent was intoxicating—a fragrant mix of lavender, oregano, and sage—and we even got to taste ripe red and black currants straight from the bush.
During our visit, I learned that there aren’t many regular public programs for toddlers—these are mostly offered at the Lipová and Jezírko branches. So, I asked whether we could organize a custom event if I gathered a group of interested families. Lucie and Zuzka were genuinely enthusiastic about the idea, and we had a lovely conversation about creating an English-language environmental program for toddlers. With their support, I’m hopeful we’ll be able to start something special very soon.
Another one of our favorites is Jezírko, Lipka’s woodland center — especially magical during the autumn and Christmas seasons. Hidden deep in the forest, it feels like stepping into a storybook village.
The Autumn Festival is always full of simple joys.
Children explore the forest trail, collect chestnuts and acorns, try woodworking, and create with their hands and hearts. We made a forest wreath from natural treasures and even learned about mushrooms from a real mycologist.
In winter, friendly animals wander the small farmyard, the scent of woodsmoke and herbs drifts through the air, and we warm our hands by the fire with herbal tea and hot chocolate. Inside, children enjoy nature-inspired activities — painting, crafting, and our favorite, baking gingerbread cookies.
There is laughter around the fire, the smell of hot soup, and a heartfelt sense of community. This is learning at its best — rooted in touch, curiosity, and connection with nature. Every visit to Lipka feels like stepping closer to nature, wrapped in warmth, discovery, and wonder.
Písečník: Inspired by the Past, Rooted in the Present↗
Tucked between Černý Pole and Lesná, at Písečník 94, the Inspiration Center Písečník is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Brno. Hidden away in a former sandpit and the site of an old emergency housing colony, it has been welcoming visitors since 2014. It’s a one-of-a-kind space where people can slow down, breathe in the scent of herbs, and enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature and history.
The whole place feels like stepping into another time. With its thoughtful details and warm community spirit, Písečník lives its motto:”inspired by the lives of our ancestors”. It’s not just a visit—it’s a gentle reminder of how simple, beautiful, and meaningful life can be when we slow down and let nature lead the way.
The second-hand bookshop is another highlight—offering rescued and refreshed books with a mission. Every book you take home supports this heartfelt, nonprofit project and gives new life to forgotten stories.
The center is especially welcoming for families with young children. Every Monday morning, local educator Iva Hercegova leads sensory-based activities designed for toddlers aged two and up, and she often organizes family day trips around Brno. On Wednesdays at 4pm, children can enjoy a playful fairy-tale program at Certova rokle in Lesná, and on Thursdays Iva is organising trips throughout Brno—making it a lively yet calming after-school destination.
More information about upcoming activities can be found here.
Children are free to explore the herb garden, stare up at the impressive sand wall, or step inside a 1930s house filled with curious objects. A quirky “junk shop” stocked with old tools, toys, and hidden treasures never fails to spark their imaginations
Lamacentrum Hády – Where Nature Gets a Fluffy Twist!↗
Tucked away in a once-forgotten limestone quarry called Džungle (yes, the Jungle!), Lamacentrum Hády is now a little slice of paradise just outside Brno. Once destined to be filled with waste soil the area has instead bloomed into a vibrant eco-haven – thanks to the heart and hard work of the non-profit heroes at Pozemkový spolek Hády. They’ve been lovingly caring for the unique Hády landscape for nearly two decades.
Since 2011, Lamacentrum has been the go-to spot for anyone looking to swap city buzz for birdsong and soft llama noses. Here, nature meets cuddly charm. You’ll find a cheerful crew of llamas, alpacas, goats, and more, happily munching grass and winning hearts. But they’re not just adorable – they’re part of a bigger mission: helping kids (and grown-ups too!) fall back in love with nature.
With benches for lounging, covered seating for picnics, and fun educational signs about local wildlife and ecology, Lamacentrum is the perfect mix of chill and learn. Whether you’re a llama enthusiast, a curious kid, a tired parent, or just someone in need of a breath of fresh air, this place has something for you.
If you’re coming by car it’s easy there’s nearby parking and the trip is smooth all the way. But if you’re feeling adventurous (like we were!) and heading up with a stroller in the summer, be ready for a bit of a challenge. The path includes a fairly steep hill and some rough terrain along the way. A sturdy stroller with big wheels is a must — and if you’ve got a little explorer in tow, a baby carrier might just be your best friend. It’s totally doable, just come prepared for a mini uphill workout. And don’t forget the essentials: snacks, water, and maybe a break or two to catch your breath and enjoy the view!
Lamacentrum is open to the public on weekends from 10 AM to 6 PM during the warmer months (with slightly shorter hours when it’s chilly). They also offer private visits and school programs, so there’s always something happening.
We haven’t had the chance to visit the following organizations yet, but I’ve bookmarked them for future events and camps. Most of them offer programs for children aged 3 and up, but you can also find events and summer camps suitable for younger kids.
Recommended by a friend who is works there the Veronica Ecological Counseling Center is a long-standing non-profit organization dedicated to climate protection, environmental education, and sustainable living. Through a wide range of programs for both children and adults, Veronica encourages individuals and communities to take meaningful steps toward a more environmentally responsible way of life.
While many of Veronica’s initiatives focus on school-aged children and adults—such as the nationwide CO₂ League or the intensive Climate Academy—families with young children will find especially welcoming and enriching experiences at the Veronica Ecocenter in Hostětín, located in the beautiful White Carpathians. This peaceful setting offers thoughtful, nature-based programs designed to gently introduce young children to the natural world.
One of the highlights is a five-day nature stay designed for parents or grandparents with children aged 3 to 6.
Held at the eco-friendly Ecocenter in Hostětín, this immersive experience gives families the chance to slow down and enjoy days filled with outdoor play, nature discovery, simple cooking, crafting, and shared activities that foster a connection with the environment.
Rezekvítek: Where Nature Gets a Second Chance ↗
Rezekvítek is a certified non-profit organization with a heartfelt mission — to revive nature and help people fall in love with it along the way. They specialize in ecological restoration, especially in areas that need it most, like former mining sites. Thanks to their dedicated work, landscapes once stripped of life are now vibrant ecosystems once again.
They care for many protected areas in Brno and the surrounding region, creating safe havens where endangered plants and animals can flourish. Without their efforts, many of these species might have disappeared for good. One of their proudest achievements is the magical Kamenný vrch meadow, home to the world’s largest population of blooming pasque flowers (Pulsatilla). It’s a stunning springtime display — you can read more about it in my (Future article coming soon).
Rezekvítek also organizes fun and educational excursions, hands-on workshops, and engaging lectures for everyone — from curious children to adults and seniors, including blind individuals or those on the autism spectrum who love nature. The Rezekvítku e-shop offers a range methodological kits for kindergartens and primary schools. If you’re looking for camps or public events for small children. Check out what’s coming up here.
Brontosaurus : Summer adventure for parents with kids↗
The Brontosaurus movement is about meaningful volunteering and experiences of a lifetime. With a tradition of over 50 years and more than 1,500 members, every year they plant tree rows, restore wetlands, take care of birdhouses or renovate castles and chateaux. The Brontosaurus Movement never forgets its youngest members. Our BRĎO children’s sections are vibrant, regularly meeting clubs that organize camps, nature outings, and a variety of engaging events for kids. Through BRĎO, children not only discover the beauty of nature, but also learn to care for it—and to explore the world with curiosity and enthusiasm.
BRĎO groups are led by experienced organizers who have completed the certified BRĎO leadership training, ensuring high-quality, safe, and inspiring experiences for children. The Brontosaurus Movement is proud to be one of just 17 organizations honored with the title Organization Recognized for Work with Children and Youth, awarded by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic. Find more about the camps here.
Zeměklíč Center: Where Kids Grow Wild and Free in Nature↗
The Zeměklíč Center is a vibrant hub for nature, learning, and community, located right in the heart of the Akátky forest park in Brno — just a 5-minute walk from public transport in the Židenice–Vinohrady area.
They’re deeply committed to protecting and sharing the beauty of the Akátecké steppe, a rare and valuable steppe meadow right next to the centre. Though it covers 5,000 m², it’s home to endangered plants like sedges and rare species such as the praying mantis. Zeměklíč works closely with foresters, botanists, zoologists, and institutions like the Nature and Landscape Conservation Agency, the Brno Zoo, and MZLU. They’re also proud members of the Czech Ornithological Society.
Children and families can enjoy nature observation activities that include birdwatching, insect exploration, bat spotting, firefly walks at night, and even forest adventures with professional foresters. Beekeeping and other hands-on learning experiences bring kids closer to the natural world in a truly magical way.
Zeměklíč runs a Forest Club for children aged 1.5–3 years, together with their parents. This gentle, once-a-week program takes place in both autumn and spring and is a wonderful way to prepare little ones for the Zeměklíč kids group.
Throughout the year, the centre also hosts unique and enriching events for children, celebrating the seasons, local wildlife, and the joy of outdoor discovery.
Envik: Nature Without Barriers — Education, Inclusion, and Adventure Outdoors↗
Envik is a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental protection and inclusive outdoor education since 2019. Based in a natural setting connected to a school garden, clubhouses, and a working farm, Envik offers a wide range of programs for children, youth, and adults — with a strong focus on accessibility for people with health limitations, especially those with visual impairments. The main goal of the association is to create conditions for meaningful spending of free time in nature and in harmony with nature.
One of Envik’s most unique offerings is tandem cycling for people who are blind or visually impaired, where participants ride together with a sighted pilot. These cycling trips, along with horseback riding and nature-based leisure clubs, promote physical and mental well-being, social inclusion, and a sense of community. Fishing camps and a special breeding club that teaches care for horses and farm animals are also popular. Read more here.
Children are introduced to the wonders of nature and sustainability through educational programs led by the cheerful Envíček elf, a character who helps make learning fun and memorable. Envik runs school programs, teacher trainings, internships, and camps focused on organic farming, ecology, and hands-on outdoor experiences.
Envik zs is also the founder of the Envíček Forest Kindergarten. The center’s outdoor classrooms are thoughtfully designed for year-round use and are fully accessible. Whether it’s a weekend event, a holiday camp, or a school visit, Envik creates opportunities for all to connect with nature — in a meaningful, inclusive, and joyful way.
Raising a child in Brno has shown me just how many beautiful, nature-rich spaces this city has to offer—even for the littlest explorers. These environmental centres aren’t just places to visit; they’re places to slow down, breathe deeply, and grow alongside our children. Whether you’re planting seeds, meeting a llama, or simply watching the seasons change together, each small moment helps build a lasting love for the natural world. I hope these spots bring as much joy, peace, and muddy-footed adventure to your family as they have to ours.