This week we had an in excursion from Environment House ladies Lara and Miho.
They come and set up our vegetable gardens. The children got to identify and plant out the new vegetable seedling and seeds that will grow. Educators and children spoke about what plants need to grow such as water, sun and food.. The children have planted strawberry plants, mint, beans, bok choy and beetroot just to name a few.
There are a few benefits from growing plants with children.
There is the opportunity of sensory exploration. They get to feel the dirt, seeds, plants and water. They get used to the sense of smell and sight and finally after all their hard working and waiting and caring for the plants they can taste what has been grown.
Gardening can teach children responsibility and understanding about checking and caring for plants during the day.
Gardening also promotes children’s gross and fine motor skills by not only digging using large muscles but also the act of carefully planting seeds and seedlings using small muscles.
