The Hundred Languages of Childhood
The Vegetable Garden
Each spring the children plant their own vegetable and fruit garden. The children begin in early April by growing seeds indoors and once the time is right the small plants are transplanted to the garden.
The children are able to see the sprouting of seeds, opening of buds and the growing and harvesting of the garden vegetables. At the end of the summer they are finally able to enjoy eating the fruits and vegetables raw or through a variety of cooking experiences.
Butterfly Garden
Butterflies are a popular topic with the children each spring. Research begins in April to find out what types of flowers need to be planted in order to attract the butterflies to the school. Nicholas discovered that sunflowers are a favourite of the monarch butterfly just before they head to Mexico for the winter.
He draws and paints what he hopes his plant will look like when it is full grown.
Caring for the Environment
The environment is an important part of our program. The children learn to care for themselves as well as the space they live in. Some of the activities include:
- Cleaning plants
- Caring for pets
- Grooming
- Setting a table
- Tidying toys
- Tidying art rooms
Through these activities the children recognize their personal strengths and accomplishments. They learn to become active participants in the care of their environment so they learn to respect it and all that lives in it.