The Benefits Children and Families Gain by Involvement
The Benefits Children and Families Gain by Involvement in Community Gardens Amelia Ortiz, Dr. Tim Reutebuch: Social Work Department University of Wisconsin – Whitewater Introduction This study will explore the significance of encouraging children and families to participate in outdoor activities such as joining a community garden. Gardening could be a beneficial approach to teaching children to become self-sustainable and, at the same time, to help create a sense of community and unity that transcends all generations. This study will investigate the prospects for allowing children to appreciate the process of growing their own food and preparing it for consumption. This is a new project located near the Business Park area in Whitewater , WI. Results Breaking Ground. Methods • Extensive review of current literature. • Working with the children in the garden and observing the attitudes before and after their garden experience. • Documenting the observations may illuminate if there any positive or negative changes in the children’s attitudes and behaviors. • Interviewing the parents and children on why they decided to join the garden and their overall experience. Harvested Garden Benefits of Community Gardens • Provides a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. • Focusing on any children or parents who did not feel they benefited from gardening, while working on ways to improve the gardening experience for all involved. . • Promotes healthier lifestyle, rather than sedentary lifestyle. Hypotheses • Helps stimulate children’s creativity and imagination about nature. It is anticipated through research and participant feedback that gardening will be viewed as therapeutic, will encourage a healthier way of living, and potentially change how these young children perceive nature. • Encourages family bonding as a typical family activity. • Integrates all age groups. • Provides access to those that may not have land, to garden, and produce their own food. • Underscores previous research that illustrates exposure to green space reduces stress and increases a sense of wellness and belonging. Children’s Garden Activities 45 minutes to an hour of ground work: planting, harvesting, watering, and weeding. Snack Break. Acknowledgements Dr. Tim Reutebuch; Mc. Nair Scholars Program; Whitewater Community Garden participants; Dr. Nelia Olivencia. Whitewater Community Garden (WCG) Summer 2009 45 minutes to an hour of activity: rock painting, tie-dyeing, and making garden accessories.
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