Cultivating Growth: The Enduring Value of Gardening for Young Children

The Literacy & Learning Center's Pre-K outdoor garden program offers a rich, hands-on learning experience beyond simply planting seeds. By engaging children in cultivating life, TL&LC fosters a deeper understanding of the natural world and ignites a passion for learning that will last a lifetime.

In the garden, students plant various plants, including mint, strawberries, tomatoes, banana peppers, rosemary, cabbage, beans, carrots, and spring onions. The inclusion of flowers serves a dual purpose, beautifying the space and, importantly, attracting vital pollinators like bees. This introduces children to the concept of interdependence within an ecosystem.

The learning extends beyond the garden beds. Students started bean seeds inside in baggies on the windowsill, allowing them to witness the initial stages of germination. These sprouted beans were then sent home, encouraging continued observation and care. Carrots and onions were grown in clear containers, providing a fascinating view of root development.

Through these activities, children learned about the essential needs of plants—sun, water, and soil. Educational time-lapse videos illustrating the plant life cycle supplemented the hands-on activities. New vocabulary was introduced to reinforce the science lessons through sequencing activities and strengthen literacy skills.

Gardening has numerous benefits for young children. It fosters a sense of responsibility as they care for their plants, enhances fine and gross motor skills through digging, planting, and watering, and encourages healthy eating habits as they become invested in the food they've grown. It also provides valuable lessons in patience, observation, and the interconnectedness of nature.

By connecting children to the natural world, TL&LC has cultivated a garden and a lifelong love of learning and environmental stewardship. To learn more about TL&LC's Pre-K program or to apply for your child, contact Carolyn Middlebrooks at CMiddlebrooks@TheLiteracyandLearningCenter.org or 828-526-0863.