The late morning sun might be uncomfortably warm, but it did not deter the K2 children from the tasks ahead. Complete with the signature bright orange Start Small Dream Big hats and armed with short shovels and spading forks, they cleared the plot next to the Senior Pacific Activity Centre of weeds and other vegetation, and loosened the soil in preparation for the first batch of vegetables to be planted there.
The children got their hands dirty and discovered various small creatures inhabiting the plot, including a grasshopper, ants and bugs. The sweat did not dampen their spirit as they toiled, knowing that the vegetables to be grown at the plot would be shared with the elderly at Senior Pacific Activity Centre under the Garden Harmony @ Tampines Central Blk 868A SSDB project.
Gardening sessions like the one conducted on 13 April 2022 offer teachers the opportunity to bring learning outdoors, and allow children to commune with nature and do their part in giving back to the community. In the process, children will learn to respect and work with nature, appreciate the efforts of those engaging in physical labour, and acquire values such as kindness and compassion.
A successful harvest depends on nature, as well as the efforts, skills and knowledge of the gardeners. The children showed interests in gardening and some proved knowledgeable as well. Thus, Child A, who had grown tomatoes and other vegetables at home, have advised the others to water the plants with water used to rinse uncooked rice in view of the residual mineral and nutrient contents.
Children clearing weeds and other vegetation from the plot
Loosening the soil in preparation for planting
Child A sharing his knowledge on watering plants with rice water rich in minerals and nutrients
Chanced encounter with a little grasshopper
