Our Primary 1 pupils were very excited this month to plant some spring bulbs in the planters in our playground. The children had a great time working together to do this. Being involved in the planting and nurturing of seeds and bulbs, children can watch nature in action at first hand. They can learn about the importance of light, water and temperature to plants.
Gardening can be a great way of helping children to feel empowered as they take on a little responsibility for learning about and tending to plants. Having ownership of a plant, however small, can help children to gain in confidence and self-esteem.
Gardening involves a range of fine motor movements, including hand-eye co-ordination, as children water plants or pick fruits. It may also involve the use of hand tools such as trowels and small forks. Children can also be involved in large movements such as carrying buckets of soil and raking up leaves.
This is a wonderful opportunity for language development as children spend time alongside an adult chatting without pressure or expectation. In addition, children can learn specific vocabulary such as ‘stem’, ‘compost’ or ‘weed’ that links to the process of growing plants.
Keep an eye out as we hope our daffodils and tulips will make an appearance in early spring - we cannot wait to see!!
