#schoolgardens — Public Fediverse posts

The Benefits and Challenges of School Gardening Programs

📰 Original title: School gardens help students learn science and connect with agriculture – but making them happen isn't easy

🤖 IA: It's not clickbait ✅
👥 Usuarios: It's not clickbait ✅

View full AI summary: https://killbait.com/en/the-benefits-and-challenges-of-school-gardening-programs/?redirpost=31d563a2-9418-4eec-bb00-87f1d9341b4a

#education #schoolgardens #agriculture #scienceeducation

RE: https://mastodon.social/@Abelvicent/116016691028210105

Yes! Absolutely!

Alt text:
Image of children working in a school garden. Caption: "Should children be taught how to grow food as part of their schooling?"

Tagging for #SolarPunkSunday , #SchoolGardens #SpendTimeOutdoors

Related link: #NYC - The First Comprehensive #UrbanAgriculture Map

"One of MOUA’s first priorities was building a complete picture of urban agriculture across the city, and making that information available to the public. The office created the Urban Agriculture Data Explorer Hub, an interactive platform that maps food production across all five boroughs. The tool has cataloged 2,580 sites so far: #SchoolGardens, #UrbanFarms, #CommunityGardens, #IndoorAgriculture businesses, and underutilized city-owned land. Users can sort by borough, zip code, land management type, and food production status, then click on individual locations for more detail. The platform will eventually also track wellness programs, commercial activity, and climate mitigation efforts. Its crowdsourced design allows community members to contribute information that official records miss, creating a more complete picture over time."

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7d3e668dfcdd4bce93275dae44fcd3dd

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenerCities #UrbanFarms #UrbanGardens #FarmersMarkets #FarmToTable #FoodSecurity #NYC

Related link: #NYC - The First Comprehensive #UrbanAgriculture Map

"One of MOUA’s first priorities was building a complete picture of urban agriculture across the city, and making that information available to the public. The office created the Urban Agriculture Data Explorer Hub, an interactive platform that maps food production across all five boroughs. The tool has cataloged 2,580 sites so far: #SchoolGardens, #UrbanFarms, #CommunityGardens, #IndoorAgriculture businesses, and underutilized city-owned land. Users can sort by borough, zip code, land management type, and food production status, then click on individual locations for more detail. The platform will eventually also track wellness programs, commercial activity, and climate mitigation efforts. Its crowdsourced design allows community members to contribute information that official records miss, creating a more complete picture over time."

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7d3e668dfcdd4bce93275dae44fcd3dd

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenerCities #UrbanFarms #UrbanGardens #FarmersMarkets #FarmToTable #FoodSecurity #NYC

Related link: #NYC - The First Comprehensive #UrbanAgriculture Map

"One of MOUA’s first priorities was building a complete picture of urban agriculture across the city, and making that information available to the public. The office created the Urban Agriculture Data Explorer Hub, an interactive platform that maps food production across all five boroughs. The tool has cataloged 2,580 sites so far: #SchoolGardens, #UrbanFarms, #CommunityGardens, #IndoorAgriculture businesses, and underutilized city-owned land. Users can sort by borough, zip code, land management type, and food production status, then click on individual locations for more detail. The platform will eventually also track wellness programs, commercial activity, and climate mitigation efforts. Its crowdsourced design allows community members to contribute information that official records miss, creating a more complete picture over time."

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7d3e668dfcdd4bce93275dae44fcd3dd

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenerCities #UrbanFarms #UrbanGardens #FarmersMarkets #FarmToTable #FoodSecurity #NYC

Related link: #NYC - The First Comprehensive #UrbanAgriculture Map

"One of MOUA’s first priorities was building a complete picture of urban agriculture across the city, and making that information available to the public. The office created the Urban Agriculture Data Explorer Hub, an interactive platform that maps food production across all five boroughs. The tool has cataloged 2,580 sites so far: #SchoolGardens, #UrbanFarms, #CommunityGardens, #IndoorAgriculture businesses, and underutilized city-owned land. Users can sort by borough, zip code, land management type, and food production status, then click on individual locations for more detail. The platform will eventually also track wellness programs, commercial activity, and climate mitigation efforts. Its crowdsourced design allows community members to contribute information that official records miss, creating a more complete picture over time."

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7d3e668dfcdd4bce93275dae44fcd3dd

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenerCities #UrbanFarms #UrbanGardens #FarmersMarkets #FarmToTable #FoodSecurity #NYC

Related link: #NYC - The First Comprehensive #UrbanAgriculture Map

"One of MOUA’s first priorities was building a complete picture of urban agriculture across the city, and making that information available to the public. The office created the Urban Agriculture Data Explorer Hub, an interactive platform that maps food production across all five boroughs. The tool has cataloged 2,580 sites so far: #SchoolGardens, #UrbanFarms, #CommunityGardens, #IndoorAgriculture businesses, and underutilized city-owned land. Users can sort by borough, zip code, land management type, and food production status, then click on individual locations for more detail. The platform will eventually also track wellness programs, commercial activity, and climate mitigation efforts. Its crowdsourced design allows community members to contribute information that official records miss, creating a more complete picture over time."

https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/7d3e668dfcdd4bce93275dae44fcd3dd

#SolarPunkSunday #GreenerCities #UrbanFarms #UrbanGardens #FarmersMarkets #FarmToTable #FoodSecurity #NYC

#VirtualEvent - Best Crops for #SchoolGardens & Orchards

Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:00 pm

"January is a key time for dreaming up a bountiful garden space! Join #SeedStLouis staff for a virtual presentation on our top recommendations for edible school and youth garden spaces. This presentation will detail various options for vegetables, perennials, and orchard plants that consider safety, youth interest, curriculum connections, the academic calendar, attainable maintenance, and reliable crop varieties accessible through Seed St. Louis."

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/5817653854468/WN_pj2m8kB5QHm9S6EUc1H5kA#/registration

#SolarPunkSunday #SeedSaintLouis #GrowYourOwn #GrowYourOwnFood #SchoolGarden #SchoolOrchards #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#InPerson and #VirtualClass - #SaintLouisMO - Grow Your Own Vegetable Seedlings (In Person)

By #SeedSaintLouis

In Person - Saturday, Feb 7, 2026 from 10am to 11am CST
Virtually - Thursday, January 29, 2026 6:00-7:00 pm!

"It's time to start your vegetable and herb seedlings! Chani Sorkin, Seed St. Louis' Director of Community Projects, will cover the basics of starting seeds, what supplies you will need, and general tips and tricks so you have happy, healthy seedlings to grow bountiful food come spring. At this in person class, each person will be planting a few of their own seeds to take home.

This in person class will be located at the Delmar Divine at 5501 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112 in the Berges Conference Room. There is free street parking all along Belt Avenue.

We are also offering this as a virtual class on Thursday, January 29th, 6:00-7:00 pm!

Seed St. Louis may photograph and record portions of this event for promotional purposes. By registering for this event, you grant permission for your image to appear in a public media production and in print and digital materials.

Delmar Divine
5501 Delmar Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63112

Preregistration required. Cost is free."

"Since 1984 Seed St. Louis has connected people to the land, to their food, and to each other. We are a 501c3 nonprofit who supports a network of over 250 #CommunityGardens, #SchoolGardens, and #UrbanOrchards in neighborhoods throughout the St. Louis region. Our purpose is to provide communities with the tools, education, and empowerment to grow their own food."

Learn more, sign up.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/grow-your-own-vegetable-seedlings-in-person-tickets-1978162062981?aff=erelexpmlt

Virtual event:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/5117653933256/WN_tVYcsG7wSl-7XTd7rBTeJw#/registration

#SolarPunkSunday #SeedStarting #Gardening #GardeningClasses #FoodSecurity #GrowYourOwn
#GrowYourOwnFood #Missouri

How to Start a #SchoolGarden: Your Complete Guide

Excerpt: "Benefits of school gardens

1. School gardens help children learn.

Gardening is the study of life. The simple act of caring for living soil and plants gives children a foundation for understanding the principles of birth, growth, maturity, death, competition, cooperation and many other lessons that transfer to human lives. In a school garden, children experience these lessons ‘hands on’ through a learning method that is rich and inclusive to varied learning abilities. The results teachers see every day are now supported by science: school gardens can help our children learn better, both academically and emotionally. For more information, read School Gardens: Can They Make Our Children Smarter?

2. Gardening together strengthens ties between school and community.

School gardening programs offer opportunities for community members to get involved, reducing the social isolation of seniors with skills to share and connecting children to older generations. They also help connect schools to local businesses and groups when they request sponsorship or volunteer assistance.

3. Getting their hands dirty helps connect children with nature.

Children who garden get a close-up look at natural processes and the living organisms that thrive in these environments. By learning to care for a living, breathing #ecosystem, children develop an understanding of nature’s importance in their lives and the lives of other beings. This fosters a culture of #EnvironmentalStewardship.

4. Gardening strengthens children’s immune systems.

There’s more and more evidence that getting #dirty exposes us to a variety of #microbes that can fortify our health and balance our immune systems against our overly sterilized world. This is particularly true for children who benefit from reduced allergies and asthma when exposed early in life to #dirt and the outdoors. The #VitaminD they absorb when gardening doesn’t hurt, either!

5. Working in a school garden helps children stay active, reducing obesity.

Teachers across the country agree: when children garden, they move their bodies more than when passively listening in a classroom. Jumping, bending, lifting, and stretching all take place during a typical gardening session. This is one of the objectives of gardening in school that most can agree is necessary given our increasingly sedentary way of life.

6. Gardening moderates moods and eases anxiety.

There’s some evidence that exposure to the beneficial microbes in soil can help regulate the neurotransmitters affecting our brain’s emotional state. A whole practice involving exposing yourself to green spaces to lift the mood has even emerged globally, with convincing results. But gardens are more than just another green space: they’re hands-on, outdoor classrooms that teach children self-regulation and mindfulness—both of which have been shown to decrease anxiety and depression.

7. Children who garden at school develop empathy and practice risk.

Teachers who garden with their students notice increased empathy towards other students and the organisms living in their school patch. That’s because tending to a ‘bug hotel’ or watching birds and earthworms thrive in the garden helps children understand the interdependency of nature. A garden also provides the perfect place for children to learn about boundaries and responsibility by practicing new activities in a safe space. Using a paring knife, trying out a hammer, or balancing on the edge of a raised bed are all ways for children to test their edges and learn new skills in a supportive environment.

8. Teaching and food gardens improve children’s diets.

Academics and journalists agree: children who garden eat more fresh vegetables. This extends beyond what they nibble on during classroom gardening time. Apparently just having a garden at school increases their intake of vegetables at home. And that’s good news for parents, teachers, and kids."

Learn more:
https://learn.eartheasy.com/guides/how-to-start-a-school-garden-your-complete-guide/

#SolarPunkSunday #SchoolGardens #FoodSecurity #NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #GrowYourOwn #GrowYourOwnFood

#UK - How #WildlifeCorridors Are Helping Animals Survive In #Urban Areas

By Sarah Whitmore / 20 May 2025

Excerpt: "How animals actually use these corridors

"Let’s take #hedgehogs. Urban hedgehog populations are declining sharply — partly because their ability to roam has been limited by garden fences, walls, and roads. A hedgehog might need to travel over a kilometre in a single night to find enough food and a mate. The Hedgehog Street campaign has shown that something as simple as a 13 cm hole in a garden fence can turn a neighbourhood into a habitat network.

"#Bats, which are legally protected in the UK, rely on uninterrupted linear features like tree rows and waterways to navigate. When gaps appear in these features — from tree removal, #LightPollution, or #development — their movement is disrupted. Creating corridors that link #roosting sites with feeding grounds can dramatically increase their chances of survival.

"#Amphibians, especially species like common toads, face seasonal danger when crossing roads to reach breeding ponds. #UnderRoadTunnels and #AmphibianFriendly #drainage routes, used in projects supported by organisations like #Froglife, have proven successful at reducing #roadkill and supporting local populations.

"#Pollinators like #bees and #butterflies also benefit immensely from corridors. Isolated #wildflower patches can’t support long-distance foraging. But when these patches are linked — even via #roadside verges or #SchoolGardens — insects can move more freely and establish healthier, more resilient populations."

Read more:
https://thenaturenetwork.co.uk/how-wildlife-corridors-are-helping-animals-survive-in-urban-areas/

#SolarPunkSunday #RewildTheNight #UrbanSprawl #Development #Nature #WildlifeCorridor #UrbanRewilding #NatureCorridors #NatureCrossings #Wildflowers #GardeningForPollinators

#UK - How #WildlifeCorridors Are Helping Animals Survive In #Urban Areas

By Sarah Whitmore / 20 May 2025

Excerpt: "How animals actually use these corridors

"Let’s take #hedgehogs. Urban hedgehog populations are declining sharply — partly because their ability to roam has been limited by garden fences, walls, and roads. A hedgehog might need to travel over a kilometre in a single night to find enough food and a mate. The Hedgehog Street campaign has shown that something as simple as a 13 cm hole in a garden fence can turn a neighbourhood into a habitat network.

"#Bats, which are legally protected in the UK, rely on uninterrupted linear features like tree rows and waterways to navigate. When gaps appear in these features — from tree removal, #LightPollution, or #development — their movement is disrupted. Creating corridors that link #roosting sites with feeding grounds can dramatically increase their chances of survival.

"#Amphibians, especially species like common toads, face seasonal danger when crossing roads to reach breeding ponds. #UnderRoadTunnels and #AmphibianFriendly #drainage routes, used in projects supported by organisations like #Froglife, have proven successful at reducing #roadkill and supporting local populations.

"#Pollinators like #bees and #butterflies also benefit immensely from corridors. Isolated #wildflower patches can’t support long-distance foraging. But when these patches are linked — even via #roadside verges or #SchoolGardens — insects can move more freely and establish healthier, more resilient populations."

Read more:
https://thenaturenetwork.co.uk/how-wildlife-corridors-are-helping-animals-survive-in-urban-areas/

#SolarPunkSunday #RewildTheNight #UrbanSprawl #Development #Nature #WildlifeCorridor #UrbanRewilding #NatureCorridors #NatureCrossings #Wildflowers #GardeningForPollinators

#UK - How #WildlifeCorridors Are Helping Animals Survive In #Urban Areas

By Sarah Whitmore / 20 May 2025

Excerpt: "How animals actually use these corridors

"Let’s take #hedgehogs. Urban hedgehog populations are declining sharply — partly because their ability to roam has been limited by garden fences, walls, and roads. A hedgehog might need to travel over a kilometre in a single night to find enough food and a mate. The Hedgehog Street campaign has shown that something as simple as a 13 cm hole in a garden fence can turn a neighbourhood into a habitat network.

"#Bats, which are legally protected in the UK, rely on uninterrupted linear features like tree rows and waterways to navigate. When gaps appear in these features — from tree removal, #LightPollution, or #development — their movement is disrupted. Creating corridors that link #roosting sites with feeding grounds can dramatically increase their chances of survival.

"#Amphibians, especially species like common toads, face seasonal danger when crossing roads to reach breeding ponds. #UnderRoadTunnels and #AmphibianFriendly #drainage routes, used in projects supported by organisations like #Froglife, have proven successful at reducing #roadkill and supporting local populations.

"#Pollinators like #bees and #butterflies also benefit immensely from corridors. Isolated #wildflower patches can’t support long-distance foraging. But when these patches are linked — even via #roadside verges or #SchoolGardens — insects can move more freely and establish healthier, more resilient populations."

Read more:
https://thenaturenetwork.co.uk/how-wildlife-corridors-are-helping-animals-survive-in-urban-areas/

#SolarPunkSunday #RewildTheNight #UrbanSprawl #Development #Nature #WildlifeCorridor #UrbanRewilding #NatureCorridors #NatureCrossings #Wildflowers #GardeningForPollinators

#UK - How #WildlifeCorridors Are Helping Animals Survive In #Urban Areas

By Sarah Whitmore / 20 May 2025

Excerpt: "How animals actually use these corridors

"Let’s take #hedgehogs. Urban hedgehog populations are declining sharply — partly because their ability to roam has been limited by garden fences, walls, and roads. A hedgehog might need to travel over a kilometre in a single night to find enough food and a mate. The Hedgehog Street campaign has shown that something as simple as a 13 cm hole in a garden fence can turn a neighbourhood into a habitat network.

"#Bats, which are legally protected in the UK, rely on uninterrupted linear features like tree rows and waterways to navigate. When gaps appear in these features — from tree removal, #LightPollution, or #development — their movement is disrupted. Creating corridors that link #roosting sites with feeding grounds can dramatically increase their chances of survival.

"#Amphibians, especially species like common toads, face seasonal danger when crossing roads to reach breeding ponds. #UnderRoadTunnels and #AmphibianFriendly #drainage routes, used in projects supported by organisations like #Froglife, have proven successful at reducing #roadkill and supporting local populations.

"#Pollinators like #bees and #butterflies also benefit immensely from corridors. Isolated #wildflower patches can’t support long-distance foraging. But when these patches are linked — even via #roadside verges or #SchoolGardens — insects can move more freely and establish healthier, more resilient populations."

Read more:
https://thenaturenetwork.co.uk/how-wildlife-corridors-are-helping-animals-survive-in-urban-areas/

#SolarPunkSunday #RewildTheNight #UrbanSprawl #Development #Nature #WildlifeCorridor #UrbanRewilding #NatureCorridors #NatureCrossings #Wildflowers #GardeningForPollinators

#UK - How #WildlifeCorridors Are Helping Animals Survive In #Urban Areas

By Sarah Whitmore / 20 May 2025

Excerpt: "How animals actually use these corridors

"Let’s take #hedgehogs. Urban hedgehog populations are declining sharply — partly because their ability to roam has been limited by garden fences, walls, and roads. A hedgehog might need to travel over a kilometre in a single night to find enough food and a mate. The Hedgehog Street campaign has shown that something as simple as a 13 cm hole in a garden fence can turn a neighbourhood into a habitat network.

"#Bats, which are legally protected in the UK, rely on uninterrupted linear features like tree rows and waterways to navigate. When gaps appear in these features — from tree removal, #LightPollution, or #development — their movement is disrupted. Creating corridors that link #roosting sites with feeding grounds can dramatically increase their chances of survival.

"#Amphibians, especially species like common toads, face seasonal danger when crossing roads to reach breeding ponds. #UnderRoadTunnels and #AmphibianFriendly #drainage routes, used in projects supported by organisations like #Froglife, have proven successful at reducing #roadkill and supporting local populations.

"#Pollinators like #bees and #butterflies also benefit immensely from corridors. Isolated #wildflower patches can’t support long-distance foraging. But when these patches are linked — even via #roadside verges or #SchoolGardens — insects can move more freely and establish healthier, more resilient populations."

Read more:
https://thenaturenetwork.co.uk/how-wildlife-corridors-are-helping-animals-survive-in-urban-areas/

#SolarPunkSunday #RewildTheNight #UrbanSprawl #Development #Nature #WildlifeCorridor #UrbanRewilding #NatureCorridors #NatureCrossings #Wildflowers #GardeningForPollinators

Digesting Food Studies (the CFS podcast)—Episode 102: Teaching about Food Studies

https://rss.com/podcasts/digesting-food-studies/2172786/

Learning about food and food systems goes way beyond classroom lectures, involving #power and #justice, #reciprocity and #listening, getting your hands into #soil and getting your heart in a roil. It’s a full mind-body experience!

This episode features Jennifer Sumner and Michael Classens, two leaders in critical teaching and learning about food systems—and guest editors of the Food Pedagogies issue of Canadian Food Studies (Vol. 8 No. 4)… Alexia Moyer explores the kinds of school environments that support food learning before post-secondary education, and in the “After Taste,” Eric Schofield responds to “Toward a Common Understanding of Food Literacy,” by Kimberley Hernandez, Doris Gillis, Kathleen Kevany, and Sara Kirk.

#DigestingFoodStudies
#Pedagogy
#TeachingAndLearning
#SchoolGardens
#Education
#FoodLiteracy
#FoodPodcast
#FoodSystems
#PaoloFreire
#FoodJustice

image: Lucy Godoy

West Hawaiʻi keiki learn gardening from UH experts https://www.allforgardening.com/1399324/west-hawai%ca%bbi-keiki-learn-gardening-from-uh-experts/ #CollegeOfTropicalAgricultureAndHumanResilience #CommunityGardening #ctahr #ElijahNavarro #garden #gardening #GardeningEducation #HawaiiCountyDepartmentOfParksAndRecreation #HawaiiIsland #KealakeheElementarySchool #MarielleHampton #MichaelParis #naalehu #PlantSeedlings #SandyMayberry #SchoolGardens #UhCooperativeExtension #UhManoa #UniversityOfHawaiiMasterGardeners #Waimea #WestHawaiiMasterGardeners #YouthGardens

Thinking Green: Why Schools Should Have #NaturalSpaces

December 13, 2023.

"As urbanization and technology increasingly dominate our landscapes and lifestyles, many educational facilities are becoming more and more sterile. However, the presence of green or natural spaces in schools has become more important than ever. Not only do these spaces offer aesthetic value, but they also contribute significantly to the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of students. This article explores the benefits of integrating green spaces in school environments and provides practical strategies, such as sourcing wholesale plants, for schools to achieve this goal.

The Benefits of Green Spaces

"Learning and Cognitive Development: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve memory, attention, and concentration in students. This leads to better academic performance and a more effective learning environment. Additionally, green spaces provide sensory experiences and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and exploration, fostering curiosity and creativity among students.

"Mental Health and Well-being: Green spaces provide a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety in students. The tranquil environment of natural settings can offer a peaceful retreat from the often hectic school routine, contributing to better mental health and emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that children who have regular access to green spaces exhibit fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity.

"Physical and Social Development: Access to green spaces encourages physical activities like playing, walking, and other forms of exercise. This not only helps in tackling issues like obesity but also promotes overall health and fitness among students. Natural environments also foster more organic social interactions that lead to improved social skills, better peer relationships, and greater opportunities for collaborative learning and play.

"Environment Quality: Plants and trees in green spaces function as natural air filters, improving air quality around the school. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where air pollution is a significant concern. At the same time, plants can perform the job of being natural sound buffers, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students.

"Connection with Nature: Regular exposure to green spaces helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the #NaturalWorld. Students can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, applying their classroom knowledge to real-life experiences. This connection is crucial for fostering #EnvironmentalStewardship and a sense of responsibility towards nature conservation.

Strategies for Creating Green Spaces

"Creating #SchoolGardens: School gardens can be used for teaching subjects like biology, environmental science, and nutrition. Gardens offer hands-on learning opportunities and can help students understand plant life cycles and food production. At the same time, planting trees around school premises can create shaded areas, reduce heat, and improve air quality. Sourcing native plants from wholesale nurseries can be a cost-effective and sustainable way to establish school gardens and contribute to overall greening efforts.

"Developing #GreenPlaygrounds: Unlike traditional playgrounds that predominantly feature manufactured equipment, green playgrounds integrate natural elements such as trees, grassy areas, bushes, and sand. These spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative and unstructured play, which is crucial for children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. By incorporating elements like logs for balancing, natural climbing structures, and areas for digging, children engage in more creative and physically active play.

"Establishing #WildlifeHabitats: By creating spaces like #ButterflyGardens, bird feeders, small ponds, or native plant areas, schools can attract and support various local wildlife species. These habitats provide students with unique, up-close opportunities to observe and learn about different ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Such initiatives not only enhance #biodiversity but also serve as living laboratories for hands-on learning in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science.

"Incorporating Living Walls and Green Roofs: For schools with limited space, living walls (vertical gardens) and green roofs are innovative ways to integrate greenery. Living walls are installations where plants are grown on vertical surfaces, transforming plain walls into lush, living tapestries. Similarly, green roofs involve cultivating vegetation on rooftops. Both these features beautify the school environment and offer tangible environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.

"Integrating #Sustainability Action: Integrating sustainability action into the curriculum and #GreenSpace initiatives can help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. For instance, schools can implement a composting system in the school garden or use upcycled materials in garden projects to promote waste reduction and resource conservation. This form of education encourages critical thinking about how our activities impact the environment."

Read more:
https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/thinking-green-why-schools-should-have-natural-spaces/

#Curiosity #Creativity #RiskTaking #Resilience #NatureDeficitDisorder #LessScreenTime #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday #NatureBasedLearning #SchoolGardens #BiophilicDesign

Thinking Green: Why Schools Should Have #NaturalSpaces

December 13, 2023.

"As urbanization and technology increasingly dominate our landscapes and lifestyles, many educational facilities are becoming more and more sterile. However, the presence of green or natural spaces in schools has become more important than ever. Not only do these spaces offer aesthetic value, but they also contribute significantly to the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of students. This article explores the benefits of integrating green spaces in school environments and provides practical strategies, such as sourcing wholesale plants, for schools to achieve this goal.

The Benefits of Green Spaces

"Learning and Cognitive Development: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve memory, attention, and concentration in students. This leads to better academic performance and a more effective learning environment. Additionally, green spaces provide sensory experiences and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and exploration, fostering curiosity and creativity among students.

"Mental Health and Well-being: Green spaces provide a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety in students. The tranquil environment of natural settings can offer a peaceful retreat from the often hectic school routine, contributing to better mental health and emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that children who have regular access to green spaces exhibit fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity.

"Physical and Social Development: Access to green spaces encourages physical activities like playing, walking, and other forms of exercise. This not only helps in tackling issues like obesity but also promotes overall health and fitness among students. Natural environments also foster more organic social interactions that lead to improved social skills, better peer relationships, and greater opportunities for collaborative learning and play.

"Environment Quality: Plants and trees in green spaces function as natural air filters, improving air quality around the school. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where air pollution is a significant concern. At the same time, plants can perform the job of being natural sound buffers, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students.

"Connection with Nature: Regular exposure to green spaces helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the #NaturalWorld. Students can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, applying their classroom knowledge to real-life experiences. This connection is crucial for fostering #EnvironmentalStewardship and a sense of responsibility towards nature conservation.

Strategies for Creating Green Spaces

"Creating #SchoolGardens: School gardens can be used for teaching subjects like biology, environmental science, and nutrition. Gardens offer hands-on learning opportunities and can help students understand plant life cycles and food production. At the same time, planting trees around school premises can create shaded areas, reduce heat, and improve air quality. Sourcing native plants from wholesale nurseries can be a cost-effective and sustainable way to establish school gardens and contribute to overall greening efforts.

"Developing #GreenPlaygrounds: Unlike traditional playgrounds that predominantly feature manufactured equipment, green playgrounds integrate natural elements such as trees, grassy areas, bushes, and sand. These spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative and unstructured play, which is crucial for children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. By incorporating elements like logs for balancing, natural climbing structures, and areas for digging, children engage in more creative and physically active play.

"Establishing #WildlifeHabitats: By creating spaces like #ButterflyGardens, bird feeders, small ponds, or native plant areas, schools can attract and support various local wildlife species. These habitats provide students with unique, up-close opportunities to observe and learn about different ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Such initiatives not only enhance #biodiversity but also serve as living laboratories for hands-on learning in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science.

"Incorporating Living Walls and Green Roofs: For schools with limited space, living walls (vertical gardens) and green roofs are innovative ways to integrate greenery. Living walls are installations where plants are grown on vertical surfaces, transforming plain walls into lush, living tapestries. Similarly, green roofs involve cultivating vegetation on rooftops. Both these features beautify the school environment and offer tangible environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.

"Integrating #Sustainability Action: Integrating sustainability action into the curriculum and #GreenSpace initiatives can help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. For instance, schools can implement a composting system in the school garden or use upcycled materials in garden projects to promote waste reduction and resource conservation. This form of education encourages critical thinking about how our activities impact the environment."

Read more:
https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/thinking-green-why-schools-should-have-natural-spaces/

#Curiosity #Creativity #RiskTaking #Resilience #NatureDeficitDisorder #LessScreenTime #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday #NatureBasedLearning #SchoolGardens #BiophilicDesign

Thinking Green: Why Schools Should Have #NaturalSpaces

December 13, 2023.

"As urbanization and technology increasingly dominate our landscapes and lifestyles, many educational facilities are becoming more and more sterile. However, the presence of green or natural spaces in schools has become more important than ever. Not only do these spaces offer aesthetic value, but they also contribute significantly to the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of students. This article explores the benefits of integrating green spaces in school environments and provides practical strategies, such as sourcing wholesale plants, for schools to achieve this goal.

The Benefits of Green Spaces

"Learning and Cognitive Development: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve memory, attention, and concentration in students. This leads to better academic performance and a more effective learning environment. Additionally, green spaces provide sensory experiences and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and exploration, fostering curiosity and creativity among students.

"Mental Health and Well-being: Green spaces provide a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety in students. The tranquil environment of natural settings can offer a peaceful retreat from the often hectic school routine, contributing to better mental health and emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that children who have regular access to green spaces exhibit fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity.

"Physical and Social Development: Access to green spaces encourages physical activities like playing, walking, and other forms of exercise. This not only helps in tackling issues like obesity but also promotes overall health and fitness among students. Natural environments also foster more organic social interactions that lead to improved social skills, better peer relationships, and greater opportunities for collaborative learning and play.

"Environment Quality: Plants and trees in green spaces function as natural air filters, improving air quality around the school. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where air pollution is a significant concern. At the same time, plants can perform the job of being natural sound buffers, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students.

"Connection with Nature: Regular exposure to green spaces helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the #NaturalWorld. Students can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, applying their classroom knowledge to real-life experiences. This connection is crucial for fostering #EnvironmentalStewardship and a sense of responsibility towards nature conservation.

Strategies for Creating Green Spaces

"Creating #SchoolGardens: School gardens can be used for teaching subjects like biology, environmental science, and nutrition. Gardens offer hands-on learning opportunities and can help students understand plant life cycles and food production. At the same time, planting trees around school premises can create shaded areas, reduce heat, and improve air quality. Sourcing native plants from wholesale nurseries can be a cost-effective and sustainable way to establish school gardens and contribute to overall greening efforts.

"Developing #GreenPlaygrounds: Unlike traditional playgrounds that predominantly feature manufactured equipment, green playgrounds integrate natural elements such as trees, grassy areas, bushes, and sand. These spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative and unstructured play, which is crucial for children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. By incorporating elements like logs for balancing, natural climbing structures, and areas for digging, children engage in more creative and physically active play.

"Establishing #WildlifeHabitats: By creating spaces like #ButterflyGardens, bird feeders, small ponds, or native plant areas, schools can attract and support various local wildlife species. These habitats provide students with unique, up-close opportunities to observe and learn about different ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Such initiatives not only enhance #biodiversity but also serve as living laboratories for hands-on learning in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science.

"Incorporating Living Walls and Green Roofs: For schools with limited space, living walls (vertical gardens) and green roofs are innovative ways to integrate greenery. Living walls are installations where plants are grown on vertical surfaces, transforming plain walls into lush, living tapestries. Similarly, green roofs involve cultivating vegetation on rooftops. Both these features beautify the school environment and offer tangible environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.

"Integrating #Sustainability Action: Integrating sustainability action into the curriculum and #GreenSpace initiatives can help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. For instance, schools can implement a composting system in the school garden or use upcycled materials in garden projects to promote waste reduction and resource conservation. This form of education encourages critical thinking about how our activities impact the environment."

Read more:
https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/thinking-green-why-schools-should-have-natural-spaces/

#Curiosity #Creativity #RiskTaking #Resilience #NatureDeficitDisorder #LessScreenTime #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday #NatureBasedLearning #SchoolGardens #BiophilicDesign

Thinking Green: Why Schools Should Have #NaturalSpaces

December 13, 2023.

"As urbanization and technology increasingly dominate our landscapes and lifestyles, many educational facilities are becoming more and more sterile. However, the presence of green or natural spaces in schools has become more important than ever. Not only do these spaces offer aesthetic value, but they also contribute significantly to the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of students. This article explores the benefits of integrating green spaces in school environments and provides practical strategies, such as sourcing wholesale plants, for schools to achieve this goal.

The Benefits of Green Spaces

"Learning and Cognitive Development: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve memory, attention, and concentration in students. This leads to better academic performance and a more effective learning environment. Additionally, green spaces provide sensory experiences and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and exploration, fostering curiosity and creativity among students.

"Mental Health and Well-being: Green spaces provide a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety in students. The tranquil environment of natural settings can offer a peaceful retreat from the often hectic school routine, contributing to better mental health and emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that children who have regular access to green spaces exhibit fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity.

"Physical and Social Development: Access to green spaces encourages physical activities like playing, walking, and other forms of exercise. This not only helps in tackling issues like obesity but also promotes overall health and fitness among students. Natural environments also foster more organic social interactions that lead to improved social skills, better peer relationships, and greater opportunities for collaborative learning and play.

"Environment Quality: Plants and trees in green spaces function as natural air filters, improving air quality around the school. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where air pollution is a significant concern. At the same time, plants can perform the job of being natural sound buffers, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students.

"Connection with Nature: Regular exposure to green spaces helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the #NaturalWorld. Students can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, applying their classroom knowledge to real-life experiences. This connection is crucial for fostering #EnvironmentalStewardship and a sense of responsibility towards nature conservation.

Strategies for Creating Green Spaces

"Creating #SchoolGardens: School gardens can be used for teaching subjects like biology, environmental science, and nutrition. Gardens offer hands-on learning opportunities and can help students understand plant life cycles and food production. At the same time, planting trees around school premises can create shaded areas, reduce heat, and improve air quality. Sourcing native plants from wholesale nurseries can be a cost-effective and sustainable way to establish school gardens and contribute to overall greening efforts.

"Developing #GreenPlaygrounds: Unlike traditional playgrounds that predominantly feature manufactured equipment, green playgrounds integrate natural elements such as trees, grassy areas, bushes, and sand. These spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative and unstructured play, which is crucial for children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. By incorporating elements like logs for balancing, natural climbing structures, and areas for digging, children engage in more creative and physically active play.

"Establishing #WildlifeHabitats: By creating spaces like #ButterflyGardens, bird feeders, small ponds, or native plant areas, schools can attract and support various local wildlife species. These habitats provide students with unique, up-close opportunities to observe and learn about different ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Such initiatives not only enhance #biodiversity but also serve as living laboratories for hands-on learning in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science.

"Incorporating Living Walls and Green Roofs: For schools with limited space, living walls (vertical gardens) and green roofs are innovative ways to integrate greenery. Living walls are installations where plants are grown on vertical surfaces, transforming plain walls into lush, living tapestries. Similarly, green roofs involve cultivating vegetation on rooftops. Both these features beautify the school environment and offer tangible environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.

"Integrating #Sustainability Action: Integrating sustainability action into the curriculum and #GreenSpace initiatives can help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. For instance, schools can implement a composting system in the school garden or use upcycled materials in garden projects to promote waste reduction and resource conservation. This form of education encourages critical thinking about how our activities impact the environment."

Read more:
https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/thinking-green-why-schools-should-have-natural-spaces/

#Curiosity #Creativity #RiskTaking #Resilience #NatureDeficitDisorder #LessScreenTime #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday #NatureBasedLearning #SchoolGardens #BiophilicDesign

Thinking Green: Why Schools Should Have #NaturalSpaces

December 13, 2023.

"As urbanization and technology increasingly dominate our landscapes and lifestyles, many educational facilities are becoming more and more sterile. However, the presence of green or natural spaces in schools has become more important than ever. Not only do these spaces offer aesthetic value, but they also contribute significantly to the physical, psychological, and educational well-being of students. This article explores the benefits of integrating green spaces in school environments and provides practical strategies, such as sourcing wholesale plants, for schools to achieve this goal.

The Benefits of Green Spaces

"Learning and Cognitive Development: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve memory, attention, and concentration in students. This leads to better academic performance and a more effective learning environment. Additionally, green spaces provide sensory experiences and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences and exploration, fostering curiosity and creativity among students.

"Mental Health and Well-being: Green spaces provide a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety in students. The tranquil environment of natural settings can offer a peaceful retreat from the often hectic school routine, contributing to better mental health and emotional well-being. In fact, studies have shown that children who have regular access to green spaces exhibit fewer behavioral problems, such as hyperactivity.

"Physical and Social Development: Access to green spaces encourages physical activities like playing, walking, and other forms of exercise. This not only helps in tackling issues like obesity but also promotes overall health and fitness among students. Natural environments also foster more organic social interactions that lead to improved social skills, better peer relationships, and greater opportunities for collaborative learning and play.

"Environment Quality: Plants and trees in green spaces function as natural air filters, improving air quality around the school. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where air pollution is a significant concern. At the same time, plants can perform the job of being natural sound buffers, reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students.

"Connection with Nature: Regular exposure to green spaces helps students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the #NaturalWorld. Students can learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems firsthand, applying their classroom knowledge to real-life experiences. This connection is crucial for fostering #EnvironmentalStewardship and a sense of responsibility towards nature conservation.

Strategies for Creating Green Spaces

"Creating #SchoolGardens: School gardens can be used for teaching subjects like biology, environmental science, and nutrition. Gardens offer hands-on learning opportunities and can help students understand plant life cycles and food production. At the same time, planting trees around school premises can create shaded areas, reduce heat, and improve air quality. Sourcing native plants from wholesale nurseries can be a cost-effective and sustainable way to establish school gardens and contribute to overall greening efforts.

"Developing #GreenPlaygrounds: Unlike traditional playgrounds that predominantly feature manufactured equipment, green playgrounds integrate natural elements such as trees, grassy areas, bushes, and sand. These spaces are designed to stimulate imaginative and unstructured play, which is crucial for children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. By incorporating elements like logs for balancing, natural climbing structures, and areas for digging, children engage in more creative and physically active play.

"Establishing #WildlifeHabitats: By creating spaces like #ButterflyGardens, bird feeders, small ponds, or native plant areas, schools can attract and support various local wildlife species. These habitats provide students with unique, up-close opportunities to observe and learn about different ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Such initiatives not only enhance #biodiversity but also serve as living laboratories for hands-on learning in subjects like biology, ecology, and environmental science.

"Incorporating Living Walls and Green Roofs: For schools with limited space, living walls (vertical gardens) and green roofs are innovative ways to integrate greenery. Living walls are installations where plants are grown on vertical surfaces, transforming plain walls into lush, living tapestries. Similarly, green roofs involve cultivating vegetation on rooftops. Both these features beautify the school environment and offer tangible environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced urban heat island effect.

"Integrating #Sustainability Action: Integrating sustainability action into the curriculum and #GreenSpace initiatives can help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship. For instance, schools can implement a composting system in the school garden or use upcycled materials in garden projects to promote waste reduction and resource conservation. This form of education encourages critical thinking about how our activities impact the environment."

Read more:
https://campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/thinking-green-why-schools-should-have-natural-spaces/

#Curiosity #Creativity #RiskTaking #Resilience #NatureDeficitDisorder #LessScreenTime #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday #NatureBasedLearning #SchoolGardens #BiophilicDesign

“This brings meaning and purpose to the lessons:” Teachers’ and facilitators’ perspectives on the joys and challenges of school garden programs in south-eastern Ontario

Janette Haase
Elaine Power

#SchoolGardens #FoodLiteracy #FarmToSchool #Sustainability #QualitativeResearch #Interviews #SchoolGardenPrograms #Ontario #Education #OntEd

Whether a #Parent or a #Teacher or a #Researcher - enjoy! That's #OpenAccess !

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/600

“This brings meaning and purpose to the lessons:” Teachers’ and facilitators’ perspectives on the joys and challenges of school garden programs in south-eastern Ontario

Janette Haase
Elaine Power

#SchoolGardens #FoodLiteracy #FarmToSchool #Sustainability #QualitativeResearch #Interviews #SchoolGardenPrograms #Ontario #Education #OntEd

Whether a #Parent or a #Teacher or a #Researcher - enjoy! That's #OpenAccess !

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/600

“This brings meaning and purpose to the lessons:” Teachers’ and facilitators’ perspectives on the joys and challenges of school garden programs in south-eastern Ontario

Janette Haase
Elaine Power

#SchoolGardens #FoodLiteracy #FarmToSchool #Sustainability #QualitativeResearch #Interviews #SchoolGardenPrograms #Ontario #Education #OntEd

Whether a #Parent or a #Teacher or a #Researcher - enjoy! That's #OpenAccess !

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/600

“This brings meaning and purpose to the lessons:” Teachers’ and facilitators’ perspectives on the joys and challenges of school garden programs in south-eastern Ontario

Janette Haase
Elaine Power

#SchoolGardens #FoodLiteracy #FarmToSchool #Sustainability #QualitativeResearch #Interviews #SchoolGardenPrograms #Ontario #Education #OntEd

Whether a #Parent or a #Teacher or a #Researcher - enjoy! That's #OpenAccess !

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/600

“This brings meaning and purpose to the lessons:” Teachers’ and facilitators’ perspectives on the joys and challenges of school garden programs in south-eastern Ontario

Janette Haase
Elaine Power

#SchoolGardens #FoodLiteracy #FarmToSchool #Sustainability #QualitativeResearch #Interviews #SchoolGardenPrograms #Ontario #Education #OntEd

Whether a #Parent or a #Teacher or a #Researcher - enjoy! That's #OpenAccess !

https://canadianfoodstudies.uwaterloo.ca/index.php/cfs/article/view/600