Watering young minds helps them to bloom and grow, and we are proud to introduce a new initiative that will help sprout our little ones' imaginations and accelerate their learning. This spring, Apple Blossom Preschool & Early Learning Center is excited to unveil our new vegetable garden. Not only will this newest addition provide our community with fresh, healthy vegetables, but it will also provide ongoing opportunities for our little ones to expand their horizons, explore their curiosity and enjoy healthy development.
How Gardening Helps in Early Childhood Development
Starting a garden is one of the most tactile ways to stir the imagination. The children love to plant seeds and speculate about what will happen when the seeds grow. Will they take a week to sprout? A month? What colors will we see? What will the leaves feel like? Planting a garden encourages discussion and is a great way to introduce the scientific method to little ones. Gardening requires intense concentration, helping children to self-regulate, exercise self-control and see a task through to completion. They love the feel of the cool soil in their hands, and the use of the tools helps to develop their fine motor skills.
Gardening Aids in Social and Emotional Growth
Children love the excitement of waiting for their vegetables to grow. They express delight when their plants start to grow and impatience when things don't go according to plan. Imagine their surprise when they see that a tiny bug has chewed through a leaf, or the squeals of delight when squirrels show up to make our garden into their own personal salad bar! (Although we're hoping that won't happen) Gardening delivers instant teachable moments that lead to effortless learning and development. Children also learn an appreciation for healthy eating and cooking when they pull the vegetables from the ground and enjoy them as part of their daily mealtime.
We have divided up our preschoolers into three groups, Lil Roots, Sprouts and Blossoms, and each group will enjoy its own responsibilities in planning, growing and tending to the garden. We invite parents to discuss with the children what they have learned during the day and perhaps continue the process at home. Even if you don't grow your own garden at home, we encourage families to continue the conversation about planting, growing and harvesting.
To say that we are excited about our newest project would be an understatement. We can't wait to nourish the young hearts and minds of our littlest friends, introducing them to the magic of gardening and the joys of healthy eating. Now that spring has sprung, we are expecting a healthy crop and lush and healthy vegetables in just a few short weeks. We are glad to delight in our excitement with the Apple Blossom family community and share our bounty with you.